Fall & Winter Tree Care in South Dakota

As the leading tree nursery in Sioux Falls, Landscape Garden Centers strives to offer the best trees in the area—healthy, vibrant, and suited to our local climate. We also value the importance of educating our customers on how to properly take care of their trees as the seasons change, ensuring they thrive year-round.

How Fall Weather Affects Trees in Sioux Falls, SD

  • As temperatures cool, Sioux Falls trees begin to shed their leaves, which is a natural process to conserve water and energy. To support this transition, apply a slow-release fertilizer in early fall to help the trees store essential nutrients. This ensures they have the energy reserves needed for winter and a strong start in spring.

  • Fall is an important time for root development in trees. While the above-ground growth slows, roots continue to grow and absorb nutrients. To encourage healthy root growth, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and add a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

  • Cooler fall weather can bring an increase in pests and diseases as trees become stressed. Regularly inspect your Sioux Falls trees for signs of damage or disease, such as discolored leaves or unusual growths. Treat any issues promptly with appropriate measures, such as pruning affected areas or applying eco-friendly pesticides.

How Winter Weather Affects Trees in South Dakota

  • Winter frost can cause significant damage to trees in Sioux Falls, particularly to young or sensitive species. To protect your trees, wrap the trunks with burlap or tree wraps to insulate against extreme cold and prevent frost cracks. This protective measure is especially important for newly planted or thin-barked trees. text goes here

  • Winter desiccation occurs when trees lose moisture through their leaves or needles, especially during dry, windy conditions. To combat this, ensure your trees are well-watered before the ground freezes, and consider using anti-desiccant sprays on evergreens to reduce moisture loss.

  • Heavy snow and ice can cause branches to break under the weight, potentially damaging the tree structure. Gently brush off excess snow from branches after a storm, and prune weak or damaged branches before winter to prevent breakage. This proactive approach helps maintain the beauty and safety of your yard.

When Is It Too Late To Plant Trees in South Dakota?

You can plant bare-root trees anytime between spring and fall, but the best time to plant trees is in the spring. This gives the trees enough time to establish their root systems before the hot summer months. Spring planting also allows trees to acclimate and grow before the onset of winter.

However, certain hardy varieties of trees and shrubs can be planted in the fall if they are well-suited to the local climate. This can be a good option if you missed the spring window, as these plants can still establish roots before winter. For any tree planting questions, feel free to reach out to us. You can also check out our video on how to plant a tree for a step-by-step guide.

Sioux Falls Nursery Trees

At Landscape Garden Centers, we offer a vast selection of Sioux Falls nursery trees, ranging from shade trees to flowering varieties. Our garden center is stocked with high-quality plants and all the supplies you need to keep them thriving. Whether you're looking to add beauty to your yard or seeking expert advice on planting and care, our knowledgeable staff is here to help.

Fill out our contact form or stop by our nursery to browse our plants, trees, and garden supplies while the season's still strong. We look forward to helping you create a beautiful, flourishing garden that you and your family can enjoy year-round.