Fall is arguably the best time to plant trees, and here’s why. The cooler weather of the fall season is ideal for planting trees because the air temperatures are lower, but the soil is still warm enough to encourage root growth before the ground freezes. Plus, with no extreme heat to stress them out, newly planted trees can establish their root systems peacefully. That’s why you’ll often see fall plantings recommended by every knowledgeable garden center.
But what are the best trees to plant in fall? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer since it depends on your yard, climate, and soil conditions. In this post, we’ll dive into some of the top picks—trees that thrive in early fall and make a statement come spring planting and beyond. So grab a shovel, and let’s get to planting!
Best Trees to Plant in Fall
1. Longleaf Pine
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, resilient tree that can handle late fall plantings and even mid-October conditions, the Longleaf Pine is your go-to. It’s a tricky species, used to thrive in challenging environments, and it’s known for its resilience. They, in general, are perfect for fall planting because they focus more on establishing their tree roots in the cooler months rather than pushing out top growth.
Another fun fact about Longleaf Pine? It’s a significant part of the ecosystem in southeastern U.S. states. Wildlife loves it, and it offers incredible protection against soil erosion. So, if you want a pine with a lot of character that contributes positively to the environment, this is a solid option. Just make sure your soil has decent drainage—pines like it dry!
Best of all, Longleaf Pines are incredibly hardy, thriving in mild weather and tolerating winter well.
2. Crabapple
Look no further than the Crabapple tree for a splash of fall color and springtime blooms. Not only do they give you lovely spring blossoms, but in autumn, their small, bright orange or red berries are a striking addition to any landscape. And here’s the kicker: they attract birds like crazy!
Crabapples are great for fall planting because, like many deciduous trees, they focus on root growth during the cooler months, preparing themselves for a gorgeous bloom come spring. They’re also pretty adaptable, thriving in both sunny and partially shaded spots, and they don’t need much maintenance. Just be aware of the space requirements, as their branches tend to spread wide!
What’s even better is that the Crabapple tree is perfect for smaller yards or urban gardens. You get the visual impact of a flowering tree without needing acres of space.
3. Buckeye
If you want something unique, the Buckeye tree is where it’s at. Known for its beautiful fall color—those deep orange and red hues—it’s the kind of tree that makes people stop and stare. Plus, this tree has a pretty cool historical background. Native Americans and early settlers used the seeds (which look like the eye of a deer, hence the name) for various medicinal purposes.
Fall is the perfect time to plant this deciduous tree, as the cooler temperatures help it establish its root system before the ground freezes. When spring comes, expect to see clusters of bright yellow flowers, making it a seasonal favorite. Buckeyes thrive in well-drained soil, so be sure your planting site is prepped for that.
Buckeyes are not only gorgeous but also attract wildlife. Squirrels love their seeds, and the flowers are a magnet for bees. It’s the ultimate backyard tree if you’re looking for something both ornamental and functional!
4. Spruce and Pine
Spruce and pine trees are known for their adaptability to colder climates and their evergreen nature, meaning they’ll keep your yard looking lush year-round. They, especially, are resilient and can handle the cool fall and winter temperatures with ease. Want an easy win for a mid October planting? Go for it.
They’re not only beautiful but functional too—whether you’re lining your property or adding texture to your landscape, they fit the bill. One bonus is that they establish quickly, so by next spring, it will already be a sturdy part of your outdoor.
For those worried about space, Japanese maple and other compact varieties of this tree are perfect for smaller yards.
5. Linden
The Linden tree, also known as Tilia, is an excellent fall planting choice. With its heart-shaped leaves and shade-providing canopy, it’s the perfect tree to relax under during summer. But here’s the best part: when you plant it in early fall, it gives the tree plenty of time to set its roots and prepare for its full show come spring. Planting trees like Linden in fall offers them a head start because they won’t be stressed by extreme heat.
Another cool thing about Lindens? They’re bee magnets! The flowers produced by this deciduous tree in late spring are irresistible to pollinators, so you’ll have bees buzzing around your garden in no time. Plus, the leaves turn a lovely yellow in the fall, adding to that seasonal aesthetic.
Lindens thrive in a variety of conditions, making them easy to care for. Just make sure you plant them where they have room to grow—these trees can get pretty large, but they’ll provide lots of shade and beauty in return.
6. Autumn Blaze Maple
The Autumn Blaze Maple is hands down one of the most stunning fall trees. If you’re all about vibrant fall color, this hybrid is a dream come true. With a combination of red maple and silver maple genetics, it explodes into fiery oranges and reds each autumn, hence the name. It’s an excellent choice for fall planting, as it establishes quickly and tolerates a wide range of soil conditions.
What makes the Autumn Blaze special is its adaptability. Whether you have a big backyard or a smaller space, this tree fits just about anywhere and gives you that iconic autumn show.
The Autumn Blaze Maple also grows fast—like, really fast. So, if you’re looking for a tree that’ll give you a full-grown look in just a few years, this is the one to go with. And with its striking red hues in the fall, you’ll be the envy of the neighborhood.
7. Maple
Speaking of maples, the classic Red Maple is another excellent choice for fall planting. It’s famous for its vibrant red leaves in the fall and its fast-growing nature. This tree adapts well to different soil types and can handle the cool fall season with ease. Like the Autumn Blaze, it’s also a fast grower, so you’ll have a mature tree in no time.
Red Maples are perfect for larger spaces but can also work in medium-sized yards. They provide excellent shade in the summer, and their root systems establish themselves quickly when planted in the fall. Plus, they’re relatively low maintenance, which makes them an easy choice for beginner gardeners.
Maples are a favorite for good reason—they’re sturdy, beautiful, and provide that “wow” factor with their fiery fall color.
Conclusion
Fall is the perfect time for planting trees that will bring beauty and life to your yard for years to come. Whether you go for a stunning Autumn Blaze Maple or the wildlife-friendly Crabapple, fall planting gives your trees the best start by encouraging strong root growth before the chilly months arrive.
And don’t forget: while trees and shrubs can be planted in spring, fall offers less chance of stress from extreme heat and gives your trees a head start in developing root systems. By the time next spring rolls around, your newly planted trees will be thriving. So, get out there and start planting your fall season favorites. Your yard will thank you!
