What Are The Best Trees to Plant in The UK This Time of Year?
Autumn and early winter are the perfect seasons for planting trees, here’s why, and which species thrive best in the UK climate.
As temperatures cool and rainfall increases, autumn is nature’s planting season. The soil is still warm enough for roots to establish before the winter frost sets in, and new trees can settle in quietly, ready to burst into life come spring. Whether you’re planting for shade, wildlife, or visual appeal, here are some of the best trees to plant in the UK right now.
🍂 Why Autumn Is the Best Time to Plant Trees
Planting between October and March gives trees the best possible start. During this period, they can develop strong root systems without the stress of summer heat or dry soil. Bare-root and root-balled trees are also available at this time, making planting more cost-effective.
Man planting tree into winter soil.
🌳 Top Trees to Plant in the UK This Season
1. Silver Birch
A classic native tree, the silver birch is loved for its elegant white bark and delicate foliage. It’s great for wildlife, attracting insects and providing food for birds. Birch trees grow well in most soils and add beautiful lightness to a garden.
2. Rowan
Also known as the mountain ash, this hardy tree is ideal for smaller gardens. Its bright red berries are a favourite for birds, and it provides stunning autumn colour. Rowan thrives in well-drained soil and handles cooler temperatures with ease.
3. Field Maple
The UK’s only native maple, this small-to-medium tree has gorgeous golden foliage in autumn. It’s a great choice for hedgerows or smaller landscapes, and it supports a wide range of insects and pollinators.
4. Crab Apple
A perfect option for both ornamental value and wildlife benefit. Crab apples bloom beautifully in spring and produce fruit in autumn, a food source for birds and pollinators alike.
5. Hawthorn
Hardy and fast-growing, hawthorn is excellent for hedging or standalone planting. Its blossoms support pollinators in spring, and its red berries feed birds through the colder months.
6. Wild Cherry
Known for its stunning spring blossom, the wild cherry brings a burst of colour to any garden. It’s also a good food source for birds and small mammals.
7. Hornbeam
If you’re looking for a hardy, long-lived tree that can cope with clay soils, hornbeam is ideal. Its rich golden leaves in autumn add structure and warmth to any garden.
Tree sprouts showing different life stages.
🌱 Tips for Successful Tree Planting
Choose the right site: Make sure your tree has space to grow and access to sunlight.
Prepare the soil: Loosen it well and mix in compost or organic matter.
Stake young trees: Protect them from wind until roots are established.
Water regularly: Especially during the first year after planting.
Mulch: Apply bark or compost around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
🌿 Planting Trees for the Future
Planting trees isn’t just about enhancing your garden, it’s about giving back to the environment. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, provide homes for wildlife, and make our communities greener and healthier.
At Beechwood, we can help you choose and plant the right trees for your garden, ensuring they grow strong and thrive for years to come.
Check out our other blog on tree planting season to learn why autumn is the perfect time to plant
📞 Contact us today to discuss your autumn planting plans or to arrange a consultation with our expert arborists.
