Winter root growth

General Gardening
1

I’ve read multiple sources that state tree roots continue to grow so long as the temperature in the soil is above freezing.
This is great, since we have very mild winters here in the Dallas metroplex area of North Texas.

But where do plants get the energy to grow roots in the winter when they don’t have leaves and that’s chlorophyll?

3 Likes
2

First of all the winter root growth is very slow. I know that from growing potted fruits of many kinds in my greenhouse in winter. Root growth slows to a crawl at best.

Energy comes from all the carbohydrates stored in the larger roots and stems in summer. It’s the same way bareroot trees grow roots in spring after planting.

11 Likes
3

Thanks! Well that answered my question.
I planted a tree recently in hopes that it would get established better by spring. But if it root growth is slow, then I don’t know…

4

It will be better established when planted now than planted next year. The soil is still warm. The really slow root growth is when soil is cold, 32-45F. The soil now is still 70-75F. Even Dec planting will beat March.

4 Likes
5

Thanks. One more question…Do you think that autumn and winter is enough root growth to support a bark graft in the spring(mid to late April)? Or do you think I should wait a whole year before attempting a graft. This is an American persimmon tree of course.

2 Likes
6

Go for it. You can always try again later if it doesn’t work.

2 Likes
7

With persimmons you almost have to wait for the tree to begin to wake up in the spring if you want successful field grafts. Once you see leaves waking up, it’s safe to try grafting. Some fruit trees have more stringent or less stringent requirements for successful grafting.

2 Likes
8

I like this guy… sometimes i like to learn Sesame Street style… and this is a good explanation of what goes on if you plant during Fall.

2 Likes
9

Great video. Thank you!

2 Likes