How much does tree planting cost?

The following guide will help walk you through the numerous factors that impact the total costs, such as the labor rate in your area and the type of tree you choose. Additionally, reaching out to a local landscaping company or a tree planting service to request a free estimate, which will help you determine your budget. 

If you are looking into adding a few trees to your property, the following information can help you estimate your total costs. From the type of tree you choose to how many trees you have planted at once, a myriad of factors will affect your total bill. 

Keep in mind that the best way to determine how much tree planting costs in your area is through pulling local estimates. Labor costs, as well as the trees themselves, will vary in pricing from region to region. 

Type of tree

Before you hire a professional to plant trees on your property, consider what type of tree you want to add to your landscaping. The type of trees you choose will play a big role in how much you spend on the project. 

Here are a few examples of tree costs based on a search of several home improvement, gardens and landscaping retailers. Remember that prices can vary depending on the specific species, retailer, tree size, the number of gallons, regional pricing and many other factors:

• Some palm trees cost around $20, while others can cost several hundred dollars.
• Japanese maple trees may cost around $18 for the bare root. For potted trees, prices start at around $60 for potted options.
• Arborvitae trees cost around $7 for the bare root. For potted trees, you may find prices that start at around $15-$20.
• A magnolia tree costs about $23 for the bare root and roughly $50 for potted magnolias.
• And some lemon tree prices range from $30-$100 or more.

As you consider the type of tree you want for your property, think through the purpose of the trees. Will you be using them for shade? Do you want a fruit tree? Compiling a list of the types of trees you hope to have planted will help you build out a more specific budget.

In most cases, you can either purchase your trees on your own and have a professional plant them. Or, you can opt to purchase your trees through the tree planting company or landscaping team.

Tree size

Your tree’s size will also impact prices. Saplings and small trees are the most affordable options; tall, well-established trees often fetch a higher price. Larger trees that are 12- to 15-feet high could cost over $1,000 per tree to install. 

Number of trees

Obviously, the more trees you plant, the more you will spend on the total project. However, as the number of trees you plant increases, some landscaping companies may provide you with a discounted rate. For this reason, it’s wise to plan out all the trees you want at once, ensuring you get the best total price possible. 

Tree location

Similar to any landscaping job, the harder an area is to reach or the more difficult the soil is to handle, the more costly the project will be. If you’re planting a tree in the front yard where landscaping teams can quickly access the space, your cost will likely be lower. Hard-to-landscape areas will often involve higher labor costs. 

Before planting trees in a specific location, carefully consider what items might need to be removed in the area if you have enough room for the growing tree to thrive. A professional landscaper can also assist you in deciding on the ideal and lowest cost location for planting a tree. 

Related content: How to landscape your yard.

Tree removal cost

Another cost you might need to calculate into your total budget for tree planting is the cost of removing existing dead trees. In many cases, homeowners who are hiring a landscaper to plant new trees are doing so to replace old, dying trees. The average cost of tree removal is $600.

Extra landscaping services

Finally, with all your costs calculated, be sure to add in any extra landscaping services you might need to your total bill. Extra services to consider adding on include the following:

• Stump grinding costs
• Lawn mowing and trimming costs
• Tree trimming costs
• Leaf cleanup prices
• Planting flowers, shrubs and ornamentals

Each of these services can be calculated by requesting estimates from top-rated landscapers in your area. 

Because tree planting can be a costly service, you might be looking for ways to save money. If you’re on a tight budget, the following tips can help you save money on tree planting services:

• Look for bare-root trees. They’re often the more affordable option when compared to potted trees. However, they’re not always readily available.
• Care for your soil. Before hiring a landscaping team to plant trees on your property, take some time to care for your soil. Perform a soil test to see if the levels are ideal for planting. If they aren’t, take the time to care for your soil before planting a tree. This will help to ensure that the tree you plant thrives, saving you the cost of replanting.
• Stick to smaller trees. These often cost less than bigger trees.
• Opt for local, native trees. It’s typically much easier to keep a native plant alive and healthy in your yard than one that isn’t natural to the area. Talk to your landscaper about which native trees are available to ensure a successful planting. 
• Ask about discounts and memberships. Depending on where you buy your tree, you may be able to get a discount if you’re a first-time customer or decide to join their membership (if they offer one).

Planting trees in your yard is a highly beneficial investment. A few well-placed trees can make all the difference for your property. In addition to being a thing of beauty, planting trees can provide all of the following benefits, as outlined by the Arbor Day Foundation:

• Trees protect your soil from erosion. During heavy rains, a tree’s root system will help keep your soil in place. Additionally, a canopy of leaves will break the fall of heavy rain, making it less impactful to your lawn. 
• Trees can help you save on energy costs. By providing shade when it’s hot and wind protection when it’s cold and windy, a tree can help you conserve your home energy costs.
• Trees increase your home’s value. In fact, the Arbor Day Foundation cites that trees can increase your property’s value by up to 15 percent. If you’re thinking of reselling your home one day, trees can dramatically improve your property’s curb appeal.
• Trees attract birds. If you love watching a songbird in your backyard, then adding trees is just for you. Trees will provide shelter and a place to perch for new avian friends.
• Trees are good for the environment. Through the process of photosynthesis, trees actually remove carbon dioxide from the air. In exchange, trees release rich oxygen back into the air — the very thing we all need to live.

After you’ve invested in newly planted trees, take steps to ensure your trees will grow and avoid having to pay for replanting services. For example:

• Clear the area. Any plants or weeds that are near the basin of your newly planted tree will be competing for water and nutrients. 
• Water deeply. You will need to spend time watering your new tree frequently. Talk to your landscaper (or the tree planting company) about a watering schedule for your specific tree. 
• Add mulch. Spread mulch around your newly planted tree to help insulate the soil, retain water and prevent weeds.
• Prune and trim. Pruning helps promote new growth and keep your tree healthy. 

In addition to these tips, consult with your landscaping professional about what tips they recommend for your specific trees.

Hiring a landscaping professional is key to the success of your tree planting endeavors. A landscaper will know how to pick out the best trees for the area, how to plant the trees to ensure their health and how to care for the trees post-planting. The following guide can help you find the right professional for you.

Comparing reviews and ratings

Rather than simply choosing the first landscaping or tree planting company you come across, compare online reviews of each business. Look for companies with a consistent track record of quality work, high ratings and positive customer interactions. 

Questions to ask

Before you reach out to local landscapers, create a list of questions to ask. This can help you stay organized and will make comparing different companies easier. Feel free to use the following questions (and add your own):

• What type of trees do you recommend for my area and region?
• Which trees are high-maintenance, and which ones are low-maintenance?
• What is the cost for the trees and the labor?
• Do you have any previous examples of work I could see?
• How long will it take to plant the trees?
• Do you offer tree maintenance services, such as tree care, trimming and pruning?

Details about your yard

Along with having a list of questions to ask, have some information about your yard handy. This information will help the landscaper calculate a more accurate price quote:

• Where you want the trees planted
• How many trees you want 
• The type of trees you want
• If will be supplying the trees 
• If you need aftercare 
• If you need additional services (such as tree removal)

Checking credentials

Another important aspect of choosing a professional is ensuring they are properly insured and carry the right licensure to do the job. Ask about insurance and licenses during your initial call. For more information on what to look for, visit our Smart Hiring guide.

Gathering estimates

Finally, you should always gather cost estimates from several different companies. These estimates will help you compare total costs and make the right decision for your budget. 

Just remember: Don’t immediately go for the lowest prices. Make your decision after you’ve evaluated the companies’ customer reviews, past project photos, credentials and quality of work.

If you’re ready to plant new trees on your property, it's time to find a professional. Start with a localized search for tree planting companies near you on Thumbtack. Then, armed with the information from above, quickly find the right professional to complete the job for you.