The 4 Best Trees to Buy For Fall Color – #4 Will Surprise You!

Maple trees in the fall

Last Updated on February 14, 2021

I have fond memories as a kid driving in the country, finding old covered bridges & viewing the amazing display of yellow, red & orange colors of the leaves.

Color intensity and timing is determined by many factors including weather, genetics and various environmental factors.  Overall, however, there are certain varieties that are known for their fall explosion of color.

Today, you don’t need to hike in the woods or drive to the country. You can buy the most popular trees for fall color and bring that beauty to your own yard.

Here’s our top 4 trees for fall color:Ginkgo trees fall

  1. This one may surprise you but Ginko trees have a spectacular fall display of bright yellow leaves. There are Ginkgo trees rated for just about every grow zone in America. Most Ginkgo trees are relatively slow growers so you might consider getting a larger size. 5-gallon container or larger is recommended.Autumn Blaze Maple
  2. Sugar Maple. This is the same tree used to make maple syrup.  They are considered fast-growing and display a range from orange to deep red fall colors. Autumn Blaze and October Glory are 2 other popular maple trees for fall color. Autumn Blaze and October Glory are considered  fast growing and most online nurseries sell them.Birch tree fall leaves
  3. Birch trees. They are usually one of the first trees to turn I fall and they put on a dazzling display. Bright yellow leaves. They also have a fascinating bark that peels in winter. River Birch is one of the most popular and are rated for grow zones 4 to 9.Dogwood leaves in fall
  4. Dogwood Trees. This may surprise you but the tree better known for the spring flowers also puts on a display of crimson red leaves in the fall.

Other best-selling fall color trees:

  • Willow
  • Ash
  • Shagbark Hickory
  • Sassafras

Maple leaves in fall

What size tree is best to buy?

The larger the root ball, the longer it will take to get acclimated to your soil. In other words, it will take longer before you see any new growth. If you are looking to buy a tree that is considered fast-growing, you may be better off buying a slightly smaller size. The root system will start to grow sooner, as well as the tree.

When buying a tree online, just don’t go by the height listed. Make sure you know the container size as well.  Call the nursery if you have to. Not all tree heights listed online are the same. Learn from our mistake. Never buy a tree online if it only lists a height.