Tree & Shrub Planting Information
What to Know About Tree & Shrub Planting in Delaware
Choosing the Right Tree or Shrub for Delaware
Selecting the right plant for the right place is the most important decision in any planting project. Delaware's climate spans USDA hardiness zones 6b and 7a, with hot summers, mild winters, and moderate rainfall. Soil types vary significantly from the heavy clay soils of New Castle County to the sandy soils of Sussex County. The wrong tree in the wrong location will struggle regardless of how well it is planted. Our certified arborists evaluate your site's sun exposure, soil drainage, available space, and proximity to structures before recommending any tree or shrub species.
The Importance of Proper Planting Depth
One of the most common causes of tree failure is improper planting depth. Trees planted too deep develop girdling roots, bark decay, and oxygen deficiency at the root zone — problems that may not appear for years but ultimately kill the tree. The root flare, where the trunk begins to widen at the base, must sit at or slightly above the finished soil grade. Our arborists carefully prepare each planting hole to the correct depth and width, remove burlap and wire baskets, and ensure proper root flare exposure. Correct planting depth is the single greatest factor in long-term tree survival.
Best Times to Plant Trees and Shrubs in Delaware
In Delaware, the best planting windows are spring (March through May) and fall (September through November). Fall planting is often preferred because cooler temperatures reduce transplant stress, and trees can establish roots throughout autumn and early winter before summer heat arrives. Spring planting works well for most species but requires more attentive watering during the first growing season. Evergreens are best planted in early fall or early spring. Container-grown trees and shrubs can technically be planted any time the ground is not frozen, though summer planting requires careful irrigation management.
Native Trees and Shrubs for Delaware Landscapes
Native Delaware plants are naturally adapted to local soils, rainfall patterns, and temperature extremes, making them far more resilient than non-native ornamentals. Popular native trees for Delaware include red maple, white oak, river birch, sweetbay magnolia, and serviceberry. Native shrubs like inkberry holly, buttonbush, Virginia sweetspire, and native azaleas provide year-round interest while supporting pollinators and wildlife. Planting natives reduces the need for irrigation, fertilization, and pest management. Many Delaware homeowners are switching to native plantings to reduce maintenance costs and environmental impact.
Aftercare: Watering, Mulching & Establishment
Proper aftercare during the first one to three years is critical for newly planted trees and shrubs. Newly planted trees require deep watering once or twice per week during the first growing season, more frequently during heat waves. A 3-4 inch layer of organic mulch applied in a ring around the base — kept away from the trunk — retains moisture, moderates soil temperature, and suppresses weeds. Avoid fertilizing newly planted trees in the first year; let the root system establish first. Our team provides a detailed aftercare plan with every planting installation to give your new trees and shrubs the best possible start.
Evergreen Screening and Privacy Planting
Evergreen trees and shrubs are the most effective natural solution for year-round privacy, noise reduction, and windbreaks on Delaware properties. Fast-growing species like Green Giant arborvitae, Leyland cypress, and Skip laurel can achieve 3-5 feet of growth per year under optimal conditions. Proper spacing is essential — too close and plants compete for resources and decline; too far apart and the screen takes years to fill in. Our arborists calculate optimal spacing based on the mature spread of each species and your specific privacy goals. We also recommend species combinations that provide layered screening at multiple heights.