Growing Tips

Transplanting & Wintering

Transplanting seedlings to permanent locations depends both on the species and the growing conditions. This usually takes two or three years.

Early spring is the best time for transplanting. Conifers planted in mid-August will establish prior to freeze-up. Some species may enter dormancy upon transplanting and will not appear to be alive until the following spring.

Seedlings placed outdoors should be protected with shade cloth, burlap or lath to prevent sun scalding. If you intend to grow potted seedlings longer than one season before transplanting outside, place them outdoors in mid-August to allow them to go dormant naturally. For winter, sink the seedlings — still in their pots — into the ground by the end of October. Cover with leaves, grass clippings or snow to insulate them from the cold.