Now Is The Perfect Time To Plant Trees And Shrubs!

Now Is The Perfect Time To Plant Trees And Shrubs For 2 Reasons:

1. Cooler temperatures are ideal for new root growth. When trees and shrubs do not have leaves to feed they can focus their energy on root development. If you plant trees and shrubs in fall, your new tree will have fall and spring to establish strong roots before they need to support the nutrient needs of the budding leaves.
2. Greenhouses usually have amazing deals on trees and shrubs in August. Like our 30% off Trees & Shrubs Sale.

Staff Picks

We love how trees and shrubs can add texture, colour, interest, and height to a landscape. Here are our top picks for trees and shrubs in 2017.

Amanda’s pick is the Zone 5 Japanese Maple. The colour combined with the leave shape makes this maple a centre piece! When planting, look for a location that is sheltered from severe wind. For more vibrant reds and colour you will want to plant in higher light conditions but it is a good idea to avoid hot direct afternoon sun. Wintering will require heavy mulch and watering before the first frost, and covering with burlap over the winter is recommended, especially for the first 3 years. It is all worth it for a feature piece like the Japanese Maple, though.

Carmen suggests the Hot Wings Tatarian Maple. A tree that is rightfully named for the bright red seeds that show up in late summer. In fall the foliage is blazing with colour! This low-maintenance tree can adapt to both dry or moist conditions. Being drought-tolerant makes this tree a great choice for gardeners who like to conserve water or don’t get out to water often.

If you are looking to add interest and vibrancy, look no further! Priscilla and Toby love the colour combinations the bright foliage and flowers of the Spirea has to offer.

These beauties are hardy and extremely easy to care for. Plant in an area with well-drained soil and full sun to light shade for maximum growth and flowering. Add a layer of mulch to retain moisture and regular summer waterings will do the trick. Prune to the desired shape in spring or winter and you are good to go.

Jackie loves Tree Hydrangea!

This tree loves sun, but also likes afternoon shade. These beautiful flower clusters grow on the current year's growth, so it’s best to trim in winter or early spring. These flowers are great to bring indoors. Place fresh cuttings in a mason jar — simple yet stunning!

Marianne’s pick is the Mock-orange.

Blooming in June and known for their sweet jasmine fragrance, these hardy shrubs are a wonderful addition to any yard. Full sun is ideal for growth and flowering. Perfect to create hedges, privacy screens, or plant just one in a garden as a focal point or feature. This plant fills in quickly

Fall Planting Tips

Ideally, trees, shrubs, and perennials would be planted 4 weeks before a heavy freeze, but it’s ok to plant them as long as you can dig a hole.

Regular watering is specifically needed for the first 6 months. For fall planting, water right until the ground freezes and resume in the spring. After that, continue to water regularly for the first year. Fall planting also allows you to establish your trees and shrubs before the hot dry summer months when newly planted trees can be more vulnerable.

Mulch around the tree to help maintain moisture, add insulation for winter and avoid stressing the roots. A 5-inch layer should do the trick and save you watering in early spring.

Choose healthy plants that have been well taken care of through the hot summer months. Neglected trees will have stressed roots that may not be able to fully recover before going dormant for winter.

Using a tree water bag (pictured below) on large trees will also help maintain moisture.

We hope that you found this article helpful! If you have any questions about gardening or plants, give us a call at 1 (306) 382-7352 or visit us at 310 Valley Rd.

“Time spent amongst trees is never wasted time.” - Katrina Mayer

Happy Planting,

The Floral Acres Team