Healthy trees and shrubs in Atlanta start with correct planting: set the root flare at or slightly above grade, dig wide rather than deep, loosen circling roots, mulch a few inches deep away from the trunk, and water through establishment. Fall and early winter are generally the best planting times in Georgia.
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Atlanta is known for its tree canopy, and trees and shrubs are the long-term backbone of any landscape. Getting them planted correctly and pruned thoughtfully saves money and headaches for decades. Most problems with landscape trees and shrubs trace back to how they were planted or how they were pruned.
Planting it right
- Plant at the right depth. The root flare, where the trunk widens at the base, should sit at or slightly above the surrounding soil. Planting too deep is a leading cause of slow decline.
- Dig wide, not deep. A hole two to three times as wide as the root ball lets roots spread into loosened soil. In clay, avoid creating a "bathtub" that holds water around the roots.
- Loosen circling roots. Container-grown plants often have roots wrapped around the pot; these should be teased out or cut.
- Mulch correctly. A layer of mulch a few inches deep, pulled back from the trunk, conserves moisture and moderates soil temperature. Avoid piling mulch against the trunk ("volcano mulching").
- Water through establishment. New trees and shrubs need regular, deep watering through their first growing season or longer.
Best time to plant
UGA Cooperative Extension generally recommends fall and early winter as the best time to plant trees and shrubs in Georgia. Roots continue to grow in cool soil, so plants are better established before summer heat and drought stress arrive.
Pruning basics
- Prune with a purpose: remove dead, damaged, crossing, or rubbing branches first.
- Spring-flowering shrubs such as azaleas and forsythia set buds the year before, so they're typically pruned soon after they bloom.
- Avoid shearing every shrub into a ball or box; it often reduces flowering and creates a thin outer shell.
- Never "top" trees. Topping creates weak regrowth and decay.
- Crape myrtles don't need to be cut back to stubs each winter. Light, selective pruning keeps their natural form.
Large trees and removals
Landscaping companies commonly plant trees and maintain shrubs and small ornamental trees. Large tree pruning, removals, and work near power lines are specialized and dangerous; that work is better suited to a tree service with appropriate equipment and insurance, ideally with an ISA Certified Arborist on staff. Also note that some Metro Atlanta cities, including Atlanta, regulate removal of certain trees on private property and may require a permit. Check with your city before removing a sizable tree.
Watch for common problems
- Leaf spot and root rot on stressed or overwatered shrubs
- Scale insects and lace bugs on hollies, azaleas, and other ornamentals
- Drought stress in late summer on shallow-rooted or newly planted material
If you're unsure what's wrong, your county Extension office can often help identify plant problems. When you're ready, request a landscaping company for planting or shrub care.
Frequently asked questions
When should I prune azaleas in Atlanta?
Azaleas set next year's flower buds in summer, so they're typically pruned soon after spring bloom. Pruning in late summer or fall can remove next spring's flowers.
Should crape myrtles be cut back every winter?
No. Severe annual cutting, sometimes called crape murder, isn't necessary and can create weak growth. Light, selective pruning to remove crossing or dead branches keeps their natural shape.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree?
Some Metro Atlanta cities, including Atlanta, regulate removal of certain trees on private property. Requirements vary, so check with your city before removing a large tree.