The Ultimate Guide to Fall Tree Planting in Austin

As the fierce Austin summer heat finally breaks, a golden opportunity arrives for homeowners: fall planting season. At ATX Trees, we consider October the absolute prime month for adding new trees to your Central Texas landscape. Here’s why this is the best time to plant and how to ensure your new tree thrives for decades.

Why Fall is Prime Time for Planting

Think of fall as your tree’s secret head start. The conditions are perfectly aligned for root establishment:

• Cooler Air: Reduced heat stress means the tree isn’t struggling to support a full canopy while trying to establish roots.

• Warm Soil: The ground is still warm from summer, encouraging strong and steady root growth.

• Seasonal Rainfall: Fall rains provide natural irrigation, reducing the amount of supplemental watering you need to do.

• A Full Season to Grow: A tree planted in fall will be well-established and ready to handle its first brutal Texas summer.

ATX Trees' Top Picks for Fall Planting

While many trees do well with a fall start, these are our most reliable performers:

1. Live Oaks: The timeless Texas champion. Drought-tolerant once established and provides unparalleled shade.

2. Cedar Elms: A tough native that thrives in our rocky soil and handles drought with ease.

3. Red Oaks: For stunning fall color and strong, dependable growth.

4. Magnolias: For evergreen privacy and classic Southern beauty.

Your Step-by-Step Planting Guide

1. Dig the Perfect Hole: Dig 2-3 times wider than the root ball, but no deeper. The root flare (where the trunk widens at the base) should be slightly above ground level.

2. Place and Position: Gently place the tree in the hole. Ensure it's standing straight.

3. Backfill with Native Soil: Do not amend the soil with compost. Backfill with the soil you dug out to encourage roots to spread into native soil.

4. Water Deeply: Create a water basin around the tree and give it a long, slow soak to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.

5. Mulch Generously: Apply a 3-4 inch layer of mulch in a wide circle around the tree (keeping it away from the trunk) to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Ready to Plant This Fall?

Visit ATX Trees in Dripping Springs this October. Our experts will help you select the perfect tree for your yard and ensure you have everything you need for planting success.

📍 24250 Ranch Road 12, Dripping Springs

📍 2201 W Hwy 290, Dripping Springs

📞 512-749-5149