When to plant your ornamental trees and shrubs?
You can plant trees and shrubs all year round, except during periods of frost. The best time to plant is in October-November or March-April.
Planted in the fall, the tree or shrub has plenty of time to take root and as the saying goes “On Saint Catherine’s Day, all wood takes root”. In addition, during this time of year, trees and shrubs are offered to you in bare roots, they are then less expensive (lighter for transport), and have a better recovery rate.
For species sensitive to cold, summer flowering shrubs, in regions with harsh winters, prefer spring to plant.
Planting and pruning ornamental trees and shrubs:
Planting will preferably take place in autumn to take advantage of the still warm soil and the rains which ensure the young plant’s water needs.
Pruning is not essential depending on the type of tree or shrub. Generally, the natural shape does not require any pruning. However, it is advisable to remove diseased branches, those that are poorly placed, and which may become annoying or even dangerous.
How to plant your ornamental trees and shrubs?
- Dig out 1 m3 and then fill with topsoil. A compost amendment and manure (crushed horn) are often recommended. Also opt for the Agrosil root stimulator from ALgoflash, which promotes rooting and plant recovery, to be used when planting and then for maintenance.
- Plant the stake at least 60 cm deep. It will be attached to the trunk with an adjustable tie.
- Plant with the tree collar just at ground level and then compact the soil.
- Create a basin at the edge of the tree and water thoroughly.
Note: Trees in a ball and conifers will be guyed, that is to say they are kept straight using several taut cables.
What trees should you plant in your garden?
Planting a tree in your garden is not a trivial act, but a decision that will affect you for decades to come! To help you make your choice, read our advice on Choosing a tree.
Follow our criteria for choosing an ornamental tree or shrub:
- Its development:
- large (chestnut, plane tree, poplar, etc.) or small (hawthorn, willow, prunus, etc.)
- fast (tulip tree, paulownia, lime tree, etc.) or slow (oak, beech, etc.)
- Its port:
- pyramidal shape: many conifers, large-flowered magnolia, sweet gum, etc.
- fastigate form: poplars, cypresses, hornbeam, …
- round shape: horse chestnuts, most maples, cedar (or Chinese mahogany), lime trees, rowan trees, etc.
- spreading form: albizia, cedar of Lebanon, …
- weeping form: weeping willow, weeping beech, weeping pagoda tree
- Its foliage:
- deciduous or evergreen. Think of the beautiful autumn colours of deciduous foliage (particularly maples, beeches, sweet gums, hornbeams, tulip trees, etc.).
- green or colored (purple beech, golden elm, etc.)
- Its flowering:
- The time, the color and the smell of the flowers, even the fruits, should not be neglected.
Maintenance of ornamental trees and shrubs
After planting ornamental trees and shrubs, pruning and maintaining these plants is important to keep them beautiful and healthy:
- Water regularly after planting.
- Large trees need to be pruned from time to time. Call a tree surgeon who practices gentle or reasoned pruning to avoid having a tree destroyed. Pruning removes annoying or unsightly branches and strengthens the tree.
- If lichens or moss take hold, brush the tree trunks regularly to prevent fungus from taking hold.
- Treat for parasites if necessary.