Tree Planting for Wildlife

What do trees offer wildlife?

Trees and shrubs provide food in the form of nuts, fruit, buds, leaves and the insects that feed on them, plus cover from weather and predators and sites for nests and dens. Different species and structures serve different animals through the year.

A mix of heights, from tall trees to thick shrubs, creates habitat layers. Native species typically support the most local insects, and so the most birds, though the details depend on your region.

• Food from fruit, nuts and insects
• Cover and nesting sites
• Layers of tall trees and low shrubs

How do you choose what to plant?

Start with native species suited to your climate zone, soil and moisture. The USDA hardiness zone map describes winter minimum temperatures, not planting dates, but it helps you rule out species that will not survive your winters.

Ask your extension office, conservation district or state forestry agency for lists of recommended species for wildlife in your area. Avoid species that are considered invasive locally, even if nurseries sell them.

Think about food across the year. Species that fruit in summer, hold berries in winter and produce nuts in fall each fill a different gap, and a few evergreens add winter cover that deciduous trees cannot provide.

• Choose natives suited to your site
• Use the hardiness zone map for winter cold
• Avoid locally invasive species

Where should trees go?

Think about the mature size of what you plant. Keep trees well away from buildings, septic systems, wells, power lines and underground utilities. Call your local utility locating service before you dig, as required where you live.

Good wildlife placements include field edges, along fences and waterways, and in places that connect existing patches of woods. Avoid planting where trees will shade a garden or block needed access.

• Plan for mature height and spread
• Check overhead and underground utilities
• Connect existing cover where possible

When and how should you plant?

Planting is usually best when trees are dormant and the soil is workable and moist, which in most regions means early spring or fall, though the best window depends on your climate. Check with local extension for timing related to your frost dates and soil conditions.

Keep bare-root seedlings moist and protected from sun and wind until planted. Dig a hole wide enough for the roots to spread naturally, keep the root collar at the proper level and firm the soil gently around the roots.

Poor planting is a common cause of failure. Roots that are bent into a small hole, trees planted too deep or planted into soggy ground often struggle for years, so take the time to prepare each spot and check drainage before you begin.

• Keep roots moist before planting
• Do not bury the root collar
• Water in after planting

How do you protect young trees?

Deer, rabbits, voles and mowers can destroy young trees. Tree shelters, wire cages or fencing help, and so does keeping a clear ring around each tree so equipment does not strike it.

Competing grass and weeds also slow growth. A mulch ring or controlled vegetation reduces competition, and any herbicide use must follow the label and avoid contact with the tree.

• Use cages or shelters against browsing
• Mark trees so mowers avoid them
• Control competition around each trunk

What care does a new planting need?

Water during dry spells in the first years, since young roots are shallow. Check regularly for damage, disease, insects and animals, and replace failed trees in the first seasons.

Expect some losses. Planting a bit more than you need, and keeping notes on what thrived, helps you adjust. Ask a forester or extension agent about problems you do not recognize.

• Water during dry spells in the first years
• Replace losses early
• Keep notes on what thrives

Is help available with costs and plans?

Costs include seedlings or trees, protection, tools or equipment, any site preparation and labor. Conservation districts often sell seedlings at modest cost, and state forestry agencies, NRCS and some programs offer technical or financial assistance, though availability changes.

Ask what the program requires before you buy anything, including species lists, spacing and maintenance commitments.

• Ask your conservation district about seedling sales
• Ask NRCS and state forestry about programs
• Confirm program rules before purchasing

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Homestead & Small Farm Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.