Are you a native or resident of Texas and have been thinking of the best time to plant trees in Texas? You are in the right place. A friend, a novice gardener in Houston, decided to plant a tree in the middle of summer despite warnings from experienced gardeners.
The tree struggled to establish roots in the scorching heat and lack of moisture. By fall, the tree had withered and died, leaving my friend disappointed and frustrated.
Proper timing is crucial for planting trees in Texas; ignoring it can lead to disastrous consequences. Let’s dive in as I will show you what you need to know about tree planting time here in Texas.
What Month Is Best to Plant Trees in Texas
The best tree planting months here in Texas are in the fall (late September or early October) or early spring (March). Generally, planting Cedar elm in Dallas, a northern city, or Pecan in Austin in the central region, or Texas Red Oak in Houston in the southern part of Texas, fall and spring are the best times.
These are the favorable seasons for tree planting because the weather is cooler, providing ideal conditions for trees to establish roots before the hot summer months. The soil is also still warm, which promotes root growth, while the cooler air temperatures reduce the risk of water loss through evaporation.
Additionally, there is typically more rainfall during the fall and winter months, which helps newly planted trees establish and grow without frequent watering. Overall, planting trees during this time allows them to establish a strong foundation before facing the stresses of hot summer weather.
It’s always a good idea to check with local gardening resources or consult a professional arborist to determine the best time to plant trees in your location.
Can You Plant Trees in Summer In Texas
Planting trees in the summer in Texas can be challenging because of high temperatures and intense sunlight, but it is possible provided adequate care for the young plant is put in place. Also, certain trees can survive the harsh weather while some trees will not.
To plant trees in summer, consider planting trees like Texas Red Oak, Chinquapin Oak, Cedar Elm, Mexican White Oak, Desert Willow, Texas Persimmon, Eve’s Necklace, Anacacho Orchid, Palo Verde, Lacey Oak. These trees and a few others have the capacity to withstand stress and survive the weather conditions.
What Threats Are Summertime Tree Plantings Exposed To
Planting trees during the summertime here in Texas can be daunting due to the following reasons:
Heat stress: Summer temperatures in Texas can be extremely high, causing stress to newly planted trees. The heat can cause water loss from the tree’s leaves, making it difficult for them to take up enough water to sustain themselves.
Drought: Summer in Texas is often dry, and drought conditions can be particularly hard on young trees. Without sufficient water, the trees can become weak and more vulnerable to diseases and pests.
Soil compaction: During the summer months, the soil can become very dry and hard, making it difficult for the roots of newly planted trees to penetrate the soil. It can limit the tree’s access to water and nutrients.
Insect pests: Many insects are more active during the summer months and can damage or kill young trees if left unchecked.
Diseases: Summertime’s high humidity and moisture levels can foster the growth of bacterial and fungal illnesses that develop and attack trees in some parts of Texas.
Texas Tree Growers
If you are looking to plant trees or shrubs of any type, there are nursery tree growers around Texas here, where you can visit and pick your choice of plants for the next planting season.
Moon Valley Nurseries: They have a wide variety of trees, including palms, fruit trees, and flowering trees. They have multiple locations throughout Texas, including Houston, Dallas, and Austin.
South Texas Growers: They specialize in native and adapted trees for the South Texas region, including oaks, pecans, and mesquites. The tree nursery farm is in San Antonio.
Chambersville Tree Farms: They have over 1,000 acres of tree farming and offer a wide range of trees, including evergreens, shade trees, and ornamental trees. Their nursery is in Celina.
Treesearch Farms: This farm is a wholesale grower that was established in 1983. Located in Houston, Texas, they offer varieties of seedlings and nursery plants tested for Houston’s unique climate; For Houston and the Gulf Coast, they specialize in habitat plants, perennials, native plants, herbs, fruit, shade, and ornamental trees.
Texas Tree Farms: They offer a wide range of trees, including pecans, oaks, and cypress trees. Their nursery is Located at 3150 US 287, Waxahachie, TX 75165, 30 miles South of Dallas/Fort Worth.
Where In Texas Has The Most Trees
According to the Texas Forest Service, Texas has over 63 million acres of forest land, which covers about 30% of the state’s total land area. The eastern part of Texas, which includes the Piney Woods region, has the highest tree density in the state, with over 11 million acres of forest covering the area.
The city of Austin has a goal of achieving 40% tree canopy coverage by 2030, which means that 40% of the city’s land area will be covered by trees. While, Houston’s Trees for Houston program has planted over 550,000 trees in the city since it was founded in 1983.
San Antonio’s Million Trees SA campaign aims to plant one million trees in the city by 2020. As of 2021, the campaign had planted over 600,000 trees.
According to the USDA Forest Service, Texas has the second-highest number of tree species of any state in the U.S., with over 200 species of trees in the state.
What Fruit Trees Grow In North Texas
Texas, with its vast size and diverse climate regions, can support a variety of fruit trees. Here’s a list of fruit trees that can be successfully grown in different parts of Texas:
- Pomegranate: Specially suited for Central and West Texas.
- Fig: Adaptable to most parts of Texas, especially the eastern and southern regions.
- Persimmon: American and Asian varieties both grow well, particularly in East Texas.
- Peach: A favorite in the Texas Hill Country, especially in Fredericksburg and Stonewall.
- Plum: Different varieties like the Methley and Bruce can be cultivated across Texas.
- Apple: Certain varieties like the Gala, Granny Smith, and Anna thrive in the Panhandle and North Texas areas.
- Pear: Bartlett and Kieffer pears are particularly suited for East and North Texas.
- Citrus Trees (like Orange, Lemon, Grapefruit, and Satsuma): Best suited for the Rio Grande Valley and other parts of South Texas due to the subtropical climate.
- Loquat: A more exotic choice, thriving in South and Central Texas.
- Blackberry and Raspberry: While not trees, these fruiting plants are worth mentioning as they flourish in various parts of Texas.
- Kiwi: Recent efforts have made it possible for certain kiwi varieties to be grown in Texas, primarily in East Texas.
- Jujube: Also known as the Chinese date, it thrives in Central and West Texas.
- Pecan: The state tree of Texas, the pecan tree is widespread and thrives in many parts of the state, particularly in the central region.
- Muscadine Grapes: These are well-suited for East Texas.
- Apricot: Best grown in North and West Texas, though they can be a bit challenging due to late frosts.
Remember, the specific variety and care practices are crucial to ensuring the successful growth of these fruit trees in Texas. Before planting, it’s essential to research the needs of each tree and its suitability to your specific region.
What Trees Grow Quickly in Texas
Right in the cozy center of Texas, where the land stretches far and wide with all sorts of weather twists and turns, nature offers a colorful palette of plants and trees. There are trees that grow so fast if you’ve been daydreaming about giving your backyard a makeover or just craving some speedy shade.
They’ll have you lounging in the shade or admiring their beauty in no time. So, trees with fast growth rate in Texas include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Red Oak (Quercus shumardii):
The majestic red oak is not only native to Texas but also one of the fastest-growing oaks around. With its fiery red fall foliage and ability to reach heights of up to 60 feet, it’s a favorite among homeowners and landscapers alike.
- Monterrey Oak (Quercus polymorpha):
Also known as the Mexican White Oak, this tree is a rapidly growing species that is drought-tolerant and can thrive in various soils. Its thick canopy offers ample shade and a touch of elegance to any yard.
- Lacebark Elm (Ulmus parvifolia):
Often referred to as the Chinese Elm, this tree is known for its ornamental bark and swift growth rate. Resilient against diseases that commonly afflict other elms, the Lacebark is a sturdy and lovely addition to Texas landscapes.
- Pecan (Carya illinoinensis):
Besides being the state tree and bearing those delicious nuts, pecans are one of the fastest-growing hardwood trees. They flourish particularly well in the fertile soils of Central Texas.
- Texas Ash (Fraxinus texensis):
If you’re looking for a tree that can withstand the Texan heat and still grow at a commendable rate, the Texas Ash is your pick. Its vibrant fall colors of purple and red are a bonus.
- Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum):
Often found lining riverbanks and ponds, the Bald Cypress is a fast grower and can reach towering heights. Its feathery, light green foliage turns russet brown in the fall, creating a captivating visual contrast.
- Cottonwood (Populus deltoides):
Found in many parts of Texas, especially along water sources, cottonwoods can shoot up incredibly fast. Their broad leaves provide expansive shade, making them a top choice for quick canopy.
Tips For Planting Fast-Growing Trees In Texas:
- Soil Testing: Before planting, get a soil test to ensure your chosen tree will thrive in your specific soil type.
- Watering: While established trees might be drought-tolerant, young trees need consistent watering to promote growth.
- Pruning: Regular pruning, especially in the early years, will encourage a healthy growth pattern and structure.
Conclusion
Knowing the best time to plant your trees helps you, as an individual, grow healthy, disease-resistant plants and prevents the stress associated with trees that enter the ground at the wrong time. Knowing the pests and diseases associated with Texas trees is also essential.