When Should I plant?

There is always debate about when to plant seedlings for best tree survival. I have learned and talked to many landowners in the last decade and I have come to the conclusion earlier is better. We like to plant seedlings in January at lower elevations depending on snow levels. We have learned the rockier the soil, the earlier we need to plant. We try to schedule the planting crews in December for a January planting for the highest success.

Earlier is better, but what if I can’t find a planting crew until spring? If the soil is good (not rocky) you can have success planting into April. Keep in mind, every month you delay after January, the more risk you will have of losing seedlings.