Thinking about adding a new tree to your Alexandria landscape? While spring is the season most people associate with planting, the truth for Central Louisiana is that late fall and early winter—specifically November and December—are the absolute best times to install new trees and shrubs.
Planting now gives your investment a huge advantage, ensuring it can withstand the summer heat when it inevitably returns.
Stop Waiting for Spring: Why Fall and Winter are Prime Planting Seasons
The moment you plant a new tree, its primary mission is to establish a strong root system. In Central Louisiana, planting in the middle of winter provides two major environmental benefits:
- Cooler Temperatures: The mild air temperatures prevent the top portion of the tree (the leaves and branches) from demanding excessive water. This eliminates the “transplant shock” often seen in spring plantings.
- Increased Moisture: Fall and winter typically bring more consistent, gentle rainfall than the sudden downpours of summer. This consistent moisture allows the soil to settle and the roots to hydrate without being drowned.
The Central Louisiana Advantage: Root Growth Over Leaf Growth
During November and December, most deciduous trees are dormant above ground, meaning their top halves are essentially “asleep.” However, the ground temperature in Central Louisiana remains warm enough to stimulate root growth.
- Result: The tree dedicates all its energy to developing a strong, deep root structure, giving it months to anchor itself before the stress of leaf production and 90-degree summer days begin. This head start is crucial for long-term health and survival.
Recommended Trees That Thrive in the Cenla Climate
When planting this season, choose species known to thrive in our unique microclimate. The key is selecting trees and shrubs that can handle both the humidity and the occasional hard freeze.
| Tree Type | Why It Works in Central Louisiana |
| Live Oak | Iconic Louisiana tree. Plant in fall for maximum root establishment; provides dense, long-term shade. |
| Bald Cypress | Great for wet areas or near ponds. Extremely hardy and native to our region. |
| Crepe Myrtle | A colorful option that loves the Louisiana sun and humidity, but fall planting helps it settle quickly. |
| Southern Magnolia | Evergreen choice that provides year-round beauty and shade; fall is ideal for planting large specimens. |
Professional Planting Matters: Ensuring Long-Term Tree Health
A tree is a decades-long investment, and its success relies heavily on correct installation. Avoid these two common DIY planting mistakes:
- Planting Too Deep: This is the #1 mistake. When the root crown (where the trunk meets the roots) is buried, the tree is susceptible to rot and slow death.
- Poor Drainage: If the soil doesn’t allow water to move, the roots will drown. Our experts assess your soil and amend it properly to ensure longevity.
The E Woolf Landscape team understands the specific requirements for tree planting in the Alexandria area. Our landscape installation service ensures proper depth, soil amendment, and initial watering protocols, giving your new tree the best possible start.
Ready to invest in your property’s future? Contact E Woolf Landscape today for a professional tree planting consultation and secure your planting date before the end of the year!
