The Best Time of Year to Plant Shrubs for a Beautiful Garden

I love gardening and am always looking for ways to make it better and bigger. A question I get asked a lot, especially by new gardeners, is when is the best time to plant shrubs? After years of trial and error, I’ve learned that there are definitely best times to plant shrubs. I’ll tell you when I think is the best time to plant shrubs based on your climate and your goals in this article.

The best time to plant shrubs is during the dormant season when the plants are not actively growing. This is typically in late fall winter or early spring depending on your location. Planting during the dormant season allows shrubs to establish roots before the demands of top growth and foliage begin in spring and summer. Let’s look at the benefits of planting in fall, winter, and spring.

Fall Planting

Fall is my personal favorite time for planting shrubs. In most places, you should plant at least 6 to 8 weeks before the ground freezes so that the roots have time to grow. The soil is still warm, which helps roots grow well, but the cooler air speeds up growth at the top. This means the plant can put more effort into building strong roots. When you plant in the fall, the plants usually grow faster in the spring.

Winter Planting

In warmer places where the ground doesn’t freeze, you can plant in the winter. However, you run the risk of damage from the cold. If you do plant in the winter, make sure to choose shrubs that do well in your area and add extra mulch to protect them. Containerized shrubs can still be planted with care. It is best to plant bare root shrubs when they are dormant, which is in late winter or early spring.

Spring Planting

Spring is a classic planting time, though you do run the risk of dried out or waterlogged soil from winter. Avoid planting too early when frosts are still possible. Wait a few weeks after your average last frost date. The warming soil will get new shrubs off to a good start before summer. Just be aware you may need to provide more watering and care initially.

How to Prepare for Planting Shrubs

Proper planning and preparation ensures your new shrubs have the best chance of thriving. Here are my tips for getting ready to plant shrubs:

• Decide on planting locations. Think about it’s exposure to sun, the type of soil, the amount of room it has to grow, what it’s supposed to do in the landscape, and so on.

• Prepare the soil. Adding compost or other organic material improves drainage and nutrients. You can amend the entire bed or just the planting holes.

• Select plants suited for your zone and site. Consider mature size, growth habit, time of bloom, and preferred conditions.

• Purchase high quality, healthy shrubs. Look for green leaves or buds and no dead branches. Avoid root-bound containers.

• Gather supplies. Shovel, pruning shears, mulch, and any amendments you need.

Taking time to prepare will set you up for planting success.

How to Plant Shrubs Step-By-Step

Once you’ve completed the preparation, it’s time to get your new shrubs in the ground. Follow these steps for proper planting technique:

1. Dig a Hole

Dig a hole 2-3 times wider than the shrub’s root ball but no deeper. The top of the root ball should sit level with the ground when placed in the hole.

2. Prepare Root Ball

For container shrubs, gently loosen any girdling roots. Remove as much of the container, burlap, and wire basket as possible from balled and burlapped shrubs.

3. Place in Hole

Set the shrub in the hole. Check that it sits at the proper depth and will be straight once soil is added.

4. Backfill

Add the native soil removed from digging, blending in any amendments as needed. Tamp down lightly to remove air pockets as you go.

5. Water

Give a thorough watering immediately after planting and again weekly during the first season if rain is lacking.

6. Mulch

Apply 2-4 inches of mulch around the base, pulling back from the stem. This helps conserve moisture and reduce weeds.

7. Prune if Needed

Prune any dead or damaged branches. Save major pruning for later seasons once established.

Caring for Shrubs After Planting

Your job isn’t done after getting your new shrubs in the ground. Proper care while they establish roots will ensure they thrive for years to come:

• Water: During the first two years, shrubs require about 1 inch of water per week from rain or watering. After establishment, water deeply but infrequently.

• Fertilize: Applying a granular shrub fertilizer or compost in early spring and fall provides nutrients for growth.

• Prune: Remove dead or damaged branches any time. Save major corrective pruning for late winter or early spring once established.

• Mulch: Maintain 2-4 inches of mulch to reduce weeds and retain moisture. Replenish as needed.

• Protect: Use fencing or wire cages around young shrubs to prevent damage from deer, rabbits, or rodents.

The Best Shrubs for Each Season

One of the great benefits of well-chosen shrubs is that you can enjoy interest and color in your garden all year round. Here are some of my favorite shrubs for each season:

Spring

Flowering shrubs like azaleas, rhododendrons, viburnum, lilac, and quince burst with blooms to welcome spring.

Summer

Rose of Sharon, buttonbush, and other summer shrubs add lush greens to the garden during the warmer months.

Fall

Shrubs like oakleaf hydrangea, sumac, and viburnum shine with intense fall foliage.

Winter

Evergreen shrubs like holly, boxwood, and juniper maintain year-round structure and greenery.

Key Takeaways on the Best Planting Time

No matter what climate you live in, you can have a thriving garden full of beautiful shrubs. Follow these gardening tips to determine the ideal planting time in your area:

• The best time is during the dormant season when shrubs are not actively growing – late fall, winter, or early spring.

• Fall planting allows roots to establish before winter dormancy then supports vigorous spring growth.

• In warmer regions, continue planting through winter. Just protect from cold damage.

• Spring planting must wait until after final frosts but before the heat of summer sets in.

• Prepare the planting site and select suitable, high quality shrubs for your zone and conditions.

• Plant properly by digging wide holes, preparing root balls, backfilling, watering, and mulching.

• Care for new shrubs with regular water, fertilizer, pruning, and protection while establishing.