Chinese pistache trees are known for their beautiful fall color. (Photo: Jitze Couperus, CC by 2.0)

October and November are ideal months to plant new trees in Fresno County landscapes. The soil is still warm and the weather cools, perfect conditions for pushing root growth that will give the new tree a running start in the spring.

Planting a new tree does require thoughtful planning. When deciding what to plant, consider your goals for adding trees to your yard. Are you looking for fruit production, shade, privacy, fall color, spring blossoms, a focal point for the garden or wildlife habitat? Planting the wrong tree – such as one that will grow too tall, develop roots that harm irrigation lines or hardscapes, or drop leaves, fruit or petals in areas where they are unwanted – could lead to a costly removal process in the future.

The UC Master Gardener program in Fresno County has information that will help gardeners select a tree that meets their current and future needs. The program has created a lengthy list of trees that do well in Fresno County, and provides details about the trees' shape, size, growth rate, water needs and potential problems. For additional reference, cities often publish recommended tree lists for their locales, including the City of Clovis and the City of Fresno.

A small sample of the Master Gardener tree list for Fresno County.

Proper planting and maintenance are also important to enjoy the long-term benefits of trees. In a Sacramento tree giveaway program, 25 percent of the trees died within the first 5 to 9 years, likely in part due to improper planting procedures. You can turn to the UC Master Gardener program for guidance on science-based landscape tree planting, which is sometimes contrary to conventional wisdom. For example, it is detrimental to amend the soil in the hole where the tree will be planted. It will do better growing in the native soil surrounding the tree. Some gardeners believe the planting hole should be dug deeper than the potted or bare root tree they've picked out at the nursery. However, to prevent settling that could later result in a tree trunk disease, don't dig any deeper than the root ball so it can sit on firm native soil when planted.

Proper planting ensures the successful establishment and longevity of trees. (Credit: UC ANR)

Learn more:

UC Master Gardeners, Fresno County, tree selection and planting guidance

UC Master Gardeners, Fresno County, tree list

Planting landscape trees, Gary Hickman and Pavel Svihra, UC Cooperative Extension horticulture advisors