Spring is a long window. Some trees go in best at the start, others wait for warmer soil. Time it right and you set the tree up for the cleanest start.
Here's a practical schedule.
Why timing matters
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Root establishment. Roots set in cool weather before heat stress arrives.
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Growth tempo. Spring rains and mild temperatures favour strong shoot growth.
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Cleaner design. A scheduled plant-out gives you time to consider sequencing and spacing properly.
Late winter to early spring (August-September): Soil prep and snow pear
Work the ground while it's still cool. Dig in compost, check drainage, test pH.
This is also the right window for Pyrus nivalis. Snow Pear handles early planting well and rewards it with a strong first season.
Early spring (September-October): Saucer Magnolia and bare-root deciduous
Once bud swell is visible, deciduous trees like Magnolia x soulangeana are ready to go in. Roots establish through the cool soil before flowering.
Mid spring (October): Japanese Maple
Soil is warm, moisture steady, no risk of late frost. Plant Acer palmatum now and water it through.
- Mature height: 4-6m
- Mature width: 3-5m
- Position: part shade, sheltered
- Soil: moist, well-drained, slightly acidic
Late spring (November): Crepe Myrtle and Olive
Warm soil suits both. Plant Lagerstroemia indica 'Natchez' so it's set for its first summer flower. Olea europaea also goes in well now if you keep up the water through summer.
- Crepe Myrtle wants full sun and free-draining soil.
- Olives want sharp drainage and a hot site.
Care after planting
- Water deeply once or twice a week through the first summer.
- Mulch 50-100mm deep across the root zone, clear of the trunk.
- Stake only if the site is exposed, remove the stake after 12 months.
- Light prune for shape in winter.
- Cover young trees if a late frost is forecast.
FAQs
Can I plant these trees in containers?
Acer palmatum and Olives do well in large pots. Larger trees like Pyrus or Magnolia are better in the ground.
How often should I water newly planted trees?
Deep water once or twice a week through the first summer. Avoid daily shallow watering.
When should I fertilise?
Early spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser as new growth pushes.
Stick to the schedule and your spring planting will reward you for years.
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