Monty Don reveals best time of year to plant trees and shrubs for 'root growth' by Christmas

Monty Don has warned gardeners they should be thinking of planting their trees and shrubs soon to get root growth 'right until Christmas '. The 69-year-old said autumn is a good time to transplant your deciduous trees and shrubs.

This is because plants often start to become dormant by October. While the leaves may still be looking fresh, Monty said moving the plant will help its root growth towards the end of the year.

The horticulture expert said this will help the plant when it comes to springtime. Speaking on Gardeners’ World, Monty said: "It’s always a really good time of year in autumn to be planting any trees or shrubs because as you learn to garden, you’re told the best time of year to plant deciduous plants is when it’s dormant, and that tends to be taken for granted when its foliage has fallen off.

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"But actually, it stops growing, in terms of foliage or flower, by October, even though the leaves may still be on and looking quite fresh and green. But the root growth will continue, so if you dig it up and transplant it, and water it in well, the root growth can carry on, sometimes right until Christmas when it gets cold.

"That means it is doing so without any stress on it from growth from foliage and the shoots and it gets established quicker. And then, in the spring, when it really has to service new growth all around, it’s in a much better place to do it."

According to the Royal Horticultural Society, it is a good idea to move and plant trees, shrubs and climbers, as well as plant hedges, from October. Root-wrapped evergreens, as well as deciduous trees, are great for planting in autumn, Express reports.

It said: "They are cheaper than containerised plants, and are the perfect choice whenever large numbers are needed - perhaps for a new hedge, woodland or a rose bed. You can still order containerised trees and shrubs, and large semi-mature specimens, for planting over the winter."

As we move into November, gardeners can expect their deciduous trees to start losing their leaves due to the harsh weather change. Some gardeners believe November is a good time to plant all trees, tree saplings, and hedging.