When is the Best Time to Plant Cedar Trees? A Seasonal Guide

Cedar trees are a classic and popular choice for landscaping. With their attractive evergreen foliage, aromatic scent, and natural resistance to rot and pests, it’s no wonder cedar trees remain a go-to option for many homeowners. However, anyone looking to add cedars to their property may wonder – when is the prime time to get them in the ground? The season and timing can impact the ease of planting and how well your new cedars thrive. This guide covers the pros and cons of planting cedar trees in spring, summer, fall, and winter so you can make an informed decision.

Spring Planting

Spring, specifically early spring before the peak growing season hits, is often considered the best time for planting new cedar trees Here are some key reasons why

• Soil Conditions: The soil has thawed out from winter freezes and has good moisture content from spring rains. This makes digging much easier than in compacted, frozen, or dry soil conditions.

• Root Establishment: Planting in early spring allows time for roots to establish before hot, dry summer weather arrives. This gives trees the best chance to flourish.

• Reduced Transplant Shock Cool spring temperatures and plentiful moisture reduce transplant stress and shock that can happen during the heat of summer

• Time to Acclimate Newly planted cedars have time to acclimate to their new environment before the demands of peak growing season begin

• Scheduling Convenience: Landscapers and homeowners have more flexibility in early spring before the busy summer season hits.

The exact planting window in spring depends on your USDA Hardiness Zone and when your last expected frost date occurs. Generally aim for 4-6 weeks before that date for optimum timing.

Summer Planting

Summer is typically the most challenging season for planting cedar trees. Here are some considerations if attempting summer planting:

• Heat and Drought: Hot, dry weather increases transplant shock and water demand. Adequate irrigation is crucial when planting in summer.

• Prioritize Shadier Locations: Choose a planting spot that receives afternoon shade if possible. This protects trees during the hottest part of the day.

• Watch Soil Moisture: Check soil moisture frequently, as new roots will dry out faster in summer heat. Deep watering 2-3 times per week may be needed.

• Plan for Supplemental Watering: Extend your irrigation system or set up a temporary above-ground sprinkler system to ensure sufficient water for newly planted trees.

• Protect Trunks: Paint trunks with whitewash and wrap with burlap to prevent sunscald damage.

• Monitor Closely: Be vigilant about signs of wilt, scorch, or loss of green color so you can address water needs promptly.

With careful planting methods and attentive aftercare, it is possible to plant cedars in summer successfully. Just be prepared to put in extra effort.

Fall Planting

As temperatures cool down in early fall, it can be a favorable time to plant cedar trees again. Here are some of the advantages of fall planting:

• Less Stress: Cooler air and soil temperatures reduce transplant shock that can happen in summer.

• Reliable Rainfall: Fall rains provide natural moisture that helps newly planted trees establish roots.

• Less Need to Water: Lower evaporation rates in fall mean less demand for frequent watering.

• Time to Settle In Before Winter: Cedars planted in early fall have a chance to root properly before winter dormancy.

• Good Availability: Nurseries and garden centers have a good selection of trees still available in the fall.

Aim to plant at least 6 weeks before your average first frost so roots have time to settle in before winter arrives. Water thoroughly until the ground freezes.

Winter Planting Considerations

Planting cedar trees in winter is the most difficult season and generally not recommended. Here are some of the challenges:

• Frozen Ground: Hard, frozen soil makes digging extremely strenuous and proper root placement difficult.

• Limited Root Growth: Root systems are largely dormant over winter and will not establish well until spring thaw.

• Potential Frost Damage: Cedar foliage can suffer frost damage if temperatures drop dramatically after planting.

• Lack of Water: Frozen topsoil prevents adequate water absorption into the soil around new roots.

• Physical Stress: Planting trees in freezing temperatures adds unnecessary physical exertion.

If you have no choice but to plant in winter, focus efforts in mid to late winter during brief thaws. Make sure soil has a chance to thaw several inches down before digging. Water as soil allows until consistent spring rains arrive. Place burlap or insulating materials around the base to protect from hard freezes.

Key Tips for Planting Cedar Trees Any Season

• Select a spot with well-draining soil and at least 6 hours of daily sun exposure. Morning sun is ideal.

• Give each cedar tree plenty of space from other plantings, allowing 15-20 feet between mature tree canopies.

• Dig a planting hole 2-3 times wider than the root ball or container size.

• Carefully place the tree at proper depth, with the top of root ball level with ground. Do not bury too deeply.

• Backfill with native soil, tamping down lightly to remove air pockets. Do not amend soil.

• Water thoroughly at planting and as needed the first two years. Provide 1-2 inches of water per week.

• Apply 2-3 inches of mulch around base, keeping it 4 inches from the trunk. Maintain this mulch layer going forward.

• Stake for added support the first year if planting in windy area. Remove stake after one year.

Cedar trees are a great evergreen landscaping choice that can be planted in most seasons with proper technique and care. For best success, aim for the spring or fall planting window before extreme weather arrives. This gives roots the maximum chance to establish. But with attention paid to irrigation, soil prep, and reducing transplant shock, cedars can be planted successfully in any season. Just be prepared to give extra care when planting outside ideal temps. Follow these tips to get your new cedar trees off to a healthy start!