Selecting trees to plant this spring
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA EXTENSION - www.extension.umn.edu
As we plan for 2026, now is the time to consider which trees and shrubs to plant in the coming spring and to order the varieties we want. As we have learned from Dutch elm disease, which killed American elms, and the emerald ash borer, which is killing ash trees, we need to diversify our landscapes by planting many tree species and avoiding overplanting a single tree family.
Properly selected and placed trees and shrubs can thrive in both urban and rural landscapes. Many species provide multiple benefits such as producing edible fruit or nuts, saving energy (heating and cooling), protecting from wind or snow, increasing property value, protecting soil and water resources, sequestering carbon, increasing wildlife habitat, providing living screens and beautifying the land.
Trees for a warmer climate
Minnesota Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD) are now promoting their spring tree orders. Minnesota farmers, landowners and residents can order trees from County SWCD offices that have tree sales and planting programs. They also may have funds for windbreaks and conservation plantings.
If you want to order trees in large numbers, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Forest Nursery is now taking orders for seedlings.
The Extension forestry team has created lists of trees for climate-ready woodlands. Recommended species are predicted to grow well in a warming climate in various regions throughout the state. We have also developed tree lists for windbreaksand silvopasture.
If you’re interested in planting new tree species, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Forest Nursery and the Canopy Tree Nursery in Wisconsin are good options to find trees that will do well here.
Helpful tree resources
For local assistance with tree and shrub selections, contact garden and tree nurseries, certified arborists, SWCD offices, Tree Care Advisors, Master Gardeners and your local Extension office.
If you manage trees on your property, the USDA Forest Service’s Tree Owner’s Manual (2015) is a helpful resource for tree care.
The University of Minnesota provides education and services to the public to help you care for your landscape:
- Caring for trees and shrubs
- Minnesota Tree Care Advocate resources
- University of Minnesota Plant Disease Clinic
- University of Minnesota Soil Testing Lab
As you are selecting trees to plant next spring, remember to diversify your landscape or woodland by planting multiple species of trees and shrubs from different plant genera.
