Trees can only be transplanted during certain times of the year. Most deciduous trees can be transplanted when they are in their dormant season, when foliage is lost. This may happen in the fall, after a couple of hard freezes, or in the spring, once the deep frost is gone, but before budding occurs.
Pruning should be done to maintain the health and longevity of your trees. Therefore, it is important that plants be allowed to grow in their natural state. Cutting branches too far can permanently damage or kill the plant.
Fall is the best time to examine the safety and health of your trees. Fallen leaves expose the tree's entire structure and architecture, making it easier to detect deadwood. A trained tree care specialist will look for changes in bark color, fungus growth, cracks, and other symptoms to determine deadwood.
Wrap the trunks of thin-barked young trees in late November to prevent frost cracks, animal damage, and sunscald. Remember to remove the wrap in March, when the spring season arrives.
Consider planting trees and shrubs in the fall. Remember to provide ample water, about an inch per week. Continue watering the plants until the ground freezes, even if deciduous plants have lost their leaves.
While spring often gets credited for being the best time to plant trees and shrubs, fall is another great planting season thanks to its cool temperatures and ample rainfall. Keep in mind, though, that trees and shrubs planted in fall need enough time to establish a good root system before winter hits.