A new tree or a row of shrubs can change how a yard looks for decades, but only if it survives the first couple of years. Most plants that struggle were set too deep, put in the wrong spot for their sun and size, or never got enough water while their roots were getting established. We plant trees, shrubs and perennials for homeowners in Oakdale and across the east metro, and we pay the most attention to the parts that decide whether a plant thrives.
What we plant
- Shade and ornamental trees
- Evergreens for privacy and winter color
- Foundation shrubs along the house
- Flowering shrubs and hedges
- Perennials and ornamental grasses to fill out beds
- Replacements for plants that died or outgrew their spot
How it works
- Look at the spot togetherWe check sun, shade, soil, drainage and how big the plant will get, so it isn't crowding the house or the driveway in ten years.
- Choose the plantsWe suggest trees and shrubs that are hardy in Minnesota and fit the look and upkeep you want.
- Clear quoteYou get a written price for the plants and the planting.
- Locate utilitiesBefore we dig, buried utility lines are marked through Gopher State One Call.
- Plant it rightA wide hole, the root flare set at or slightly above grade, circling roots loosened and the hole backfilled with the native soil.
- Mulch and water inWe finish with a mulch ring kept off the trunk, water everything in and leave you a simple watering plan.
When to plant trees and shrubs in Minnesota
Spring, after the ground thaws, and late summer into early fall are the two best windows. Cooler air and regular rain give roots time to grow before summer heat or the ground freezing. Container plants can go in most of the growing season as long as they're watered well, but we'll steer you toward spring or fall for larger trees.
Planting depth matters more than anything
Planting too deep is the most common reason new trees decline. The point where the trunk flares out into the roots should sit at or just above the soil, not buried. We dig a wide, shallow hole rather than a deep one, so roots can spread into loose soil, and we never pile mulch against the trunk.
Watering a new tree or shrub
- Water deeply right after planting
- For the first season, water slowly and deeply about once or twice a week when it hasn't rained, more often in heat
- Check the soil a few inches down before watering. Moist is good, soggy is not.
- Keep watering into fall until the ground freezes. Evergreens especially need moisture going into winter.
What affects the price
We price in the middle of the market. The cost depends on:
- The number and size of plants
- The plants you choose
- How easy it is to get plants and equipment to the spot
- Removing old shrubs, stumps or sod first
- Bed prep, edging and mulch or rock around the new plantings
Quotes are free. Planting pairs naturally with a bed renovation or a full landscaping project.
Common questions about tree and shrub planting
When is the best time to plant trees in Minnesota?
Spring after the ground thaws, and late summer into early fall. Cooler weather and rain give roots time to grow before summer heat or freeze-up.
Do you plant both trees and shrubs?
Yes. We plant trees, evergreens, shrubs, hedges and perennials, on their own or as part of a bigger landscaping project.
Can you remove an old shrub and replace it?
Yes. We take out the old plant and roots, prep the soil and plant the new one in the same visit.
How often should I water a new tree?
Deeply right after planting, then slowly and deeply about once or twice a week in the first season when it hasn't rained. Keep watering into fall until the ground freezes.
How much does tree and shrub planting cost?
It depends on how many plants, their size and the site. Request a free quote and we'll give you a clear price.
Do you serve my area?
We are based in Oakdale and serve the east side of Saint Paul and nearby communities, including Woodbury, Maplewood, North St. Paul, Lake Elmo, Cottage Grove, Stillwater, White Bear Lake and Hudson, Wisconsin. See the full list on our home page.
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651-888-0351Mon–Sat 7am–5pm. Based in Oakdale, serving the east metro.