The question is; when is the optimal planting period for trees and shrub, autumn or spring? This is a question gardeners ask themselves every year. We will try to finally answer it! Generally, the choice of the right plant depends on three factors; roots, plant species and winter-hardiness. Specifically, with the roots there is a difference between bare-root trees and trees with peat and balled roots. With plants, pay attention to whether they are deciduous or evergreen plant species. Finally, we must consider how well the plant in question copes with wintery conditions.

Barring frosty conditions, you can plant trees and shrub from October until March. Bare-root trees can be planted a little longer until late March. October and November are suitable planting months, as nurseries have early roses, deciduous bushes, hedge plants and small trees stored in cool storage or warehouses. Hence, there is a certain advantage in terms of price and quality when purchasing in spring. 

Plants with balled roots can be placed in soil until the beginning of May as their roots will have already sprouted well. Trees and roses with pot roots can be planted up into summer. Remember to pay careful attention to maintaining sufficient watering of the plants. 

Bare-root trees and roses (Planting Period: October to March at the latest) 

Trees with peat or balled roots (Planting Period: October to May) 

Trees and roses with pot roots (Planting Period: October until late summer)

Especially now in October and November, it is recommended to plant the bare-root trees. These will take root by the spring and will then begin to sprout. 

Conifers and frost-hardy deciduous evergreens with soil or root-ball should be planted the beginning of September. Water evaporates through the leaves and needles in the winter. This takes energy away from the plant and until winter because the roots have not grown enough, making them susceptible to freezing.

A rough indication is given by the so-called climate, vegetation and winter-hardiness zones. They are influenced by, among other things, the altitude above sea level, the prevailing winds and the geographical location. An example of this in Europe comes from Germany, where the classifications of the winter-hardiness zones (WHZ) range from 5b (cool, Alps) up to 8a (warm, Rhine Valley). For every plant variety, a recommendation for the appropriate winter-hardiness zone can be made.