Fall remains best time to plant a tree

If you plan to plant a new tree in your yard or field, now is the time to do it according to Patrick Byers, a horticulture specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

“Fall tends to be a better time of year to plant trees because the soil is warm enough to support root growth. There is usually plenty of rain in the fall to keep soil moist,” said Byers.

An added advantage is that the roots of the newly planted plant do not have to support the development of a new canopy of foliage.

“Your local nursery will have several types of trees available: bare root, ball and burlapped, and container grown,” said Byers.

When specifically should these plants go into the ground?

Evergreens (usually container or ball and burlap) should be planted in September. Container grown or ball/burlap deciduous woody plants should be planted October to November. Bare root nursery stock should be planted in late October to November.

For more information, call the nearest county extension office or visit online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene.