Tree & Shrub Planting and Care in Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN

Quick answer

Healthy trees and shrubs in the Twin Cities start with correct planting: trunk flare about an inch above grade, a hole 1 to 2 feet wider than the roots, 2 to 3 inches of mulch kept off the trunk, and regular watering into fall. Plant a mix of species after ash loss, and don't prune oaks from April through July because of oak wilt.

Last updated October 22, 2026

Trees shape Twin Cities neighborhoods, and many yards are rethinking theirs after emerald ash borer. EAB was first found in Minnesota in 2009 and has since killed or forced the removal of many ash trees around the metro, leaving some once-shady yards in full sun. Planting the right replacements, and planting them correctly, pays off for decades.

Planting it right

Set the trunk flare above grade. University of Minnesota Extension recommends the flare sit about an inch above the soil surface, and slightly higher in compacted or poorly drained clay.
Dig wide. Make the hole at least 1 to 2 feet wider than the root system, with roughened sides.
Fix circling roots on container plants before planting.
Mulch correctly. Extension suggests 2 to 3 inches of wood chips in a circle about 6 feet across, kept at least 4 inches from the trunk.
Water through establishment, including a deep soak in fall before the ground freezes.

When to plant

Container-grown trees and shrubs can go in any time during the growing season, balled-and-burlapped stock in spring, summer or fall, and bare-root stock in early spring before growth begins. Extension advises planting evergreens no later than October so roots can establish before winter.

Choosing trees after ash

Extension's guidance is to diversify so one pest can't wipe out a yard's canopy again. Options it discusses include hackberry, swamp white oak, river birch, disease-resistant elms and northern white cedar for moist sites. Match the tree to the space: mature size, overhead wires and distance from the house all matter. Many cities keep their own suggested lists.

Pruning and oak wilt

Do not prune oaks from April through July. Extension identifies that as the high-risk period for spreading oak wilt, a serious disease in the Twin Cities area.
Many shrubs are pruned in late winter; spring bloomers such as lilacs are pruned right after flowering.
Remove dead, damaged and crossing branches first, and never top trees.

Boulevard trees and invasives

In Minneapolis, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is responsible for boulevard trees. Residents can request a tree or a planting permit, but the Park Board decides species and location, and only hand pruning of sprouts is allowed. St. Paul and suburban cities have their own rules for trees in the boulevard, so check before planting or removing one. On private land, removing common and glossy buckthorn, both restricted noxious weeds in Minnesota, is a common first step before replanting.

Large trees and removals

Landscaping companies typically plant trees and care for shrubs and small ornamentals. Large tree pruning, removals and anything near power lines is better handled by a tree service with the right equipment and insurance, ideally with an ISA Certified Arborist.

When you're ready, request a landscaping company for planting or shrub care in Minneapolis, St. Paul or the suburbs.

Frequently asked questions

What should I plant to replace an ash tree?

University of Minnesota Extension recommends diversifying. Options it discusses include hackberry, swamp white oak, river birch and disease-resistant elms. Check your city's suggested list and match the tree's mature size to the space.

When can I prune oak trees in Minnesota?

Avoid pruning oaks from April through July, the high-risk period for oak wilt. Extension describes March to mid-April and August through October as lower risk, and still advises sealing oak pruning wounds right away.

Can I plant a tree on the boulevard in Minneapolis?

Only with Park Board approval. The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is responsible for boulevard trees; residents can request a tree or a planting permit, but the Park Board decides species and location. Other cities have their own rules.

Sources and further reading

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