You’ve probably heard the old proverb: “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.”
Well, that might be true if we’re talking about the metaphorical “tree of life,” but when it comes to the actual maple, oak, or cedar in your Ontario yard, the best “now” is right in the heart of fall.
Picture this: the air crisp with the scent of leaves, the earth still warm from summer, and the gentle rain softening the soil. This is when nature itself invites you to give your property the gift of shade, beauty, and long-term value.
Fall isn’t just a good time for planting trees in Ontario — it’s arguably the season for it.
Here’s why, and how to make your efforts last for decades.
Is Fall The Best Time To Plant Trees In Ontario?
Absolutely — and science backs it up.
- Root growth loves cool soil
During fall in Ontario, the soil holds onto the summer’s warmth even as the air temperature drops. This creates a perfect “sweet spot” where roots can expand rapidly without the stress of supporting leaf or flower growth.
While spring planting splits a tree’s energy between roots and foliage, fall planting lets the roots hog the nutrients and moisture.
- Moisture is on your side
Fall brings more consistent rainfall, reducing the risk of drought stress. In summer, young trees often struggle with heat waves and watering schedules, but in fall, nature does much of the irrigation for you.
- It’s pest-light season
Many common pests, like aphids and borers, are far less active in fall. Your tree gets a head start without the constant battle against bugs and fungal diseases that thrive in humid summer conditions.
- It’s also budget-smart.
Nurseries often offer end-of-season discounts on trees, meaning you can invest in more or higher-quality species for the same budget.
When Exactly Should You Plant Trees In The Fall In Ontario?
In Ontario, the golden planting window runs from early September to late October.
This gives your new tree six to eight weeks to develop roots before the frost.
Plant too early, and the heat of late summer can stress the tree. Plant too late, and the soil may cool too much to promote root growth.
Pro Tip: Aim for at least four weeks before the first expected hard frost in your area.
What Trees Grow Best When Planted In Fall In Ontario?
Here are 10 tree varieties that thrive in Ontario’s autumn planting season — each with a touch of history and yard value:
- Sugar Maple – Ontario’s signature tree, famous for its brilliant red-orange fall leaves and maple syrup heritage. Perfect for shade and seasonal beauty.
- Red Oak – Strong, long-lived, and valued for its timber and deep red fall foliage. Historically used in shipbuilding.
- White Birch – With its striking papery bark, it has cultural significance in Indigenous traditions and adds elegance to any yard.
- Eastern White Pine – Ontario’s provincial tree, historically prized for ship masts. Tall, soft-needled, and evergreen year-round.
- American Basswood – Known for fragrant summer flowers that attract pollinators; its wood was used for carvings and instruments.
Other trees to plant in the fall in Ontario include: Serviceberry (Amelanchier), White Spruce, Black Cherry, Hackberry, Cedar (Eastern White Cedar)
A Quick Note On Tree Cutting In Ontario:
While you’re free to plant as you wish, removing or cutting trees may require permits, especially in urban areas or for protected species.
Municipal bylaws vary, so always check with your local city or township office before cutting or heavily pruning mature trees.
[Read: Do I Need Permission To Cut Down A Tree On My Property In Ontario?]
How To Plant A Tree In The Fall Step-by-step
- Prepare the Soil – Choose well-drained soil and enrich it with compost to encourage microbial activity.
- Dig the Right Hole – Twice as wide as the root ball but only as deep as the roots.
- Position Correctly – Ensure the root flare is just above the soil line.
- Backfill Gently – Firm the soil without compacting it too much.
- Water Generously – Saturate the root zone immediately after planting.
- Mulch Wisely – Apply 2–4 inches around the base, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk.
- Protect from Winter – Wrap the trunk and, if needed, stake it in windy areas.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Planting Trees In Ontario’s Fall Season
Avoid these pitfalls:
- Planting Too Deep – Buried root flares suffocate roots and trap moisture, which can lead to rot in Ontario’s damp fall soils.
- Choosing the Wrong Tree – Some species simply can’t handle Ontario’s winters; always check hardiness zones before buying.
- Neglecting Watering – Cooler air doesn’t mean roots stop growing; they still need weekly deep watering until the ground freezes.
- Skipping Mulch – Without mulch, roots face harsher temperature swings and lose moisture faster during dry autumn weeks.
- Ignoring Sunlight Needs – Planting sun-loving trees in shade (or shade-lovers in full sun) sets them up for slow decline.
- Forgetting Winter Protection – Trunk wraps and guards prevent sunscald and rodent damage that’s common in Ontario winters.
Each mistake not only risks your investment but can also delay that beautiful shade canopy you’re envisioning by several years.
Final Thoughts
Fall is nature’s way of giving trees a head start.
By planting now, you’re setting your tree up for a stress-free season of root growth, a stronger start in spring, and a healthier life overall.
And here’s the thing — you don’t have to do it alone.
Our expert handymen and landscaping professionals are available around the clock to help you choose, plant, and care for the perfect trees for your property.
We don’t just stop at planting; we provide ongoing yard, lawn, and tree care so your outdoor space thrives year-round.
Contact us today for a FREE professional inspection or call us at 1-833-410-4357 and let’s give your yard the beauty, shade, and value it deserves — starting this fall.
