Why Fall is the Best Time to Plant Trees and Shrubs in Fayetteville, NC

Spring gets all the attention for planting, but ask any landscape professional and they’ll tell you: fall is the best time to plant trees and shrubs in Fayetteville. Our Sandhills climate makes autumn especially friendly to new plantings, and here’s why.

1. Warm Soil + Cool Air = Happy Roots

Fall’s cooler air puts less stress on young trees and shrubs, while our soil in the Sandhills stays warm well into December. This perfect combo allows roots to grow strong without the pressure of supporting lots of new leaves.

2. Rainfall Advantage

Fayetteville often sees steadier rainfall in the fall compared to the hot, dry summer months. This helps keep soil consistently moist without the need for constant irrigation.

3. Beat the Heat

Plants installed in spring face the challenge of getting established just before summer’s intense heat. Fall planting avoids this stress, giving plants six to eight months of root growth before they face their first Sandhills summer.

4. Faster Spring Growth

By the time spring arrives, fall-planted trees and shrubs already have a well-developed root system. That means they’ll leaf out faster, bloom better, and be more resilient to drought.

Recommended Trees and Shrubs for Fayetteville Fall Planting

• Crape Myrtles – beloved summer bloomers that thrive in our sandy soil.

• Hollies – provide evergreen structure and bright berries in winter.

• Camellias – perfect for fall or winter blooms.

• Southern Magnolias – a true Southern classic.

• Loropetalum – versatile with year-round color.

If you’ve been waiting to upgrade your yard, fall is the season to do it. A little effort now pays off with years of healthy growth.