Planting trees and shrubs sounds simple—but timing is one of the most important factors in determining whether your new plants will thrive or struggle. While you can technically plant during warmer months, the most successful and stress-free installations happen during fall and spring, when weather conditions are ideal for root development and long-term health.
Whether you're upgrading your landscape, replacing old plants, creating privacy, or installing new foundation shrubs, choosing the right season sets your plants up for success. At Driftwood Landscape, we carefully plan tree and shrub installations to align with Michigan’s climate to give your landscape the strongest possible start.
In this blog, we’ll break down why fall and spring planting is so important, what makes each season unique, which plants do best in each window, and how proper professional installation ensures your landscaping thrives for years.
Trees and shrubs need a strong root system to survive Michigan’s temperature changes, soil movement, and seasonal pressure. Planting during extreme heat or drought forces new plants to focus on survival rather than growth.
Fall and spring offer the perfect environmental conditions, giving your landscape the healthy foundation it needs.
Spring is one of the most popular seasons for landscape planting—and for good reason.
Cool air and warming soil encourage strong root development without stressing plants.
Spring moisture reduces the need for constant watering and prevents transplant shock.
More sunlight helps shrubs and trees establish leaves, roots, and structure.
Nurseries are fully stocked in spring, giving you the best selection of:
Spring plantings quickly leaf out or bloom, giving you fast visual results.
Fall may be the best season of all for planting trees and shrubs—especially in Michigan.
Lower temperatures reduce shock and water loss, making fall ideal for new installations.
Even as the air cools, soil stays warm—perfect for root establishment.
Fall planting avoids many of the pests that thrive in summer.
Cool, moist conditions help keep soil hydrated with minimal effort.
During fall, plants naturally direct energy underground. This results in:
Fall-planted shrubs and trees wake up faster and healthier when spring arrives.
Both seasons are excellent, but some projects benefit more from one than the other.
Fall gives evergreens and large root systems more time to establish before summer heat.
Driftwood Landscape installs Michigan-hardy species that perform exceptionally well when planted at the right time.
These plants establish well and deliver long-term beauty.
Driftwood Landscape installs premium trees and shrubs that thrive in Michigan’s climate—installed at the perfect time for long-term success.
