***This article was written by Angela Mason Foster, Beaufort County Volunteer Master Gardener***

When gardeners think of planting season, spring usually comes to mind. But here in Eastern North Carolina, fall is actually the best time to plant trees and shrubs. From mid-September through early December, cooler air temperatures, warm soil, and more consistent rainfall create ideal conditions for root development—without the stress of summer heat or the urgency of spring's compressed schedule.

Whether you’re starting a pollinator garden, replacing storm-damaged trees, or simply enhancing your landscape, planting now sets your woody ornamentals up for long-term success. With a little planning and care, fall-planted trees and shrubs will be well-rooted by the time next summer rolls around.

Why Fall Planting Works Best

Fall planting gives trees and shrubs a critical head start. As the weather cools, plants shift their energy away from producing new top growth and instead focus on developing strong root systems. Because soil in Eastern NC often remains warm well into December, roots can continue to grow for several months after the air cools.

Planting in fall also means less water stress. With shorter days, lower temperatures, and higher soil moisture, plants require less frequent watering than in spring or summer. When you plant now, trees and shrubs are better equipped to survive the rigors of next summer’s heat and potential drought.

Additionally, nurseries often discount plants in the fall, making it a budget-friendly time to invest in your landscape.

Native Trees and Shrubs for Pollinators and Wildlife

If you're planting this fall, why not choose species that support local ecosystems? Native trees and shrubs are adapted to our climate, typically require less maintenance, and provide vital food and habitat for birds, pollinators, and beneficial insects.

Here are a few top choices for Eastern NC:

• Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis) – Beautiful early spring blooms attract pollinators; also supports caterpillars and birds.
• American Holly (Ilex opaca) – Evergreen with red berries that feed winter birds.
• Southern Wax Myrtle (Morella cerifera) – Aromatic foliage, semi-evergreen, excellent for birds and pollinators.
• Oak species (Quercus spp.) – Keystone species for wildlife; supports hundreds of caterpillar species and provides excellent habitat.
• Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) – Showy purple berries in fall are beloved by birds.
• Virginia Sweetspire (Itea virginica) – Fragrant spring flowers and fiery fall foliage; attracts pollinators and tolerates wet soil.

Including native species not only adds beauty to your garden—it makes your landscape more resilient and ecologically beneficial.

Planting and Mulching Best Practices

A successful planting starts with choosing the right site for the plant’s mature size and light needs. Always call 811 before digging to avoid underground utilities, and give trees and shrubs plenty of space to grow without crowding structures, driveways, or other plants.

Follow these planting tips:

1. Dig wide, not deep. The hole should be 2–3 times the width of the root ball, but no deeper than the root flare (where the trunk meets the roots). Avoid planting too deeply—this is a common cause of poor establishment.
2. Loosen the roots. Gently tease apart circling or pot-bound roots. If left unchecked, girdling roots can eventually strangle a tree as it matures.
3. Backfill with native soil. Amendments are often unnecessary. Using existing soil helps the roots adapt more easily to their surroundings.
4. Mulch smart. Apply 2–3 inches of mulch (pine straw, bark, or shredded leaves) around the base of the plant, but keep it several inches away from the trunk to prevent rot and pest problems. Mulch conserves moisture, insulates roots, and discourages weeds.

Avoid using fertilizer at planting time—it can damage tender roots. Instead, let the plant focus on establishing itself through root growth.

Watering Through Fall and Winter

Even though fall planting requires less frequent watering than summer, consistent moisture is still essential for newly planted trees and shrubs. After planting, water deeply to settle the soil around the roots. Then, follow this general guideline:

• First 2–3 weeks: Water every 2–3 days unless there is substantial rainfall.
• Remainder of fall: Water once a week during dry spells.
• Winter: If conditions are dry and temperatures are above freezing, water once every 2–3 weeks.

The goal is to keep the root zone consistently moist—but not soggy—until the plant goes fully dormant. Be especially attentive during dry autumns or if we experience unseasonably warm weather.

Set the Stage for a Healthier Landscape

Whether you're planting a shade tree to anchor your yard or adding shrubs to frame a pollinator bed, fall is the time to do it. Trees and shrubs planted now will be stronger, more drought-resistant, and better established by next summer than their spring-planted counterparts.

And don’t forget—the benefits of fall planting go beyond beauty. You’ll be enriching your soil, providing food and shelter for wildlife, and increasing the long-term resilience of your home landscape.

Suggested Reading:

• Bringing Nature Home by Douglas Tallamy
• Native Plants of the Southeast by Larry Mellichamp
• NC State Extension publication: Woody Ornamentals for the Southeast

If you have questions about your home garden or landscape, reach out to Gene Fox, Consumer Horticulture Agent with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service. Email Gene at gene_fox@ncsu.edu or call (252) 946-0111. Master Gardeners are available on the Greenline Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM to assist with your horticultural needs. Don’t forget to check out the Beaufort County Master Gardeners Facebook page for additional resources.