Mayhaw trees are a beloved Southern native fruit tree known for their tart, flavorful berries and their role in traditional jellies, syrups, and regional cuisine. Closely related to hawthorns, mayhaw trees thrive in moist soils, tolerate periodic flooding, and produce fruit reliably when planted in the right environment. While mayhaws are hardy once established, planting them at the correct time is essential for strong root development and long-term success.

The best time to plant mayhaw trees varies by state because climate, soil temperature, and frost patterns differ across the country. Mayhaw trees are deciduous and establish best when planted during dormancy or just before active spring growth begins. Understanding when to plant mayhaw trees in your state helps ensure healthy growth, earlier fruiting, and decades of reliable production.

Why Planting Time Matters for Mayhaw Trees

Mayhaw trees naturally grow in bottomlands and low-lying areas, but young trees are still sensitive to transplant stress. According to research shared by the LSU AgCenter, mayhaw trees establish best when planted during dormancy, allowing roots to develop before the stress of heat or drought arrives.

Planting mayhaw trees at the proper time helps ensure:

• Stronger root establishment
• Reduced transplant shock
• Improved tolerance to wet soils
• Better cold resilience after establishment
• Earlier and more consistent fruit production

Because mayhaws bloom early in spring, planting timing also affects how well trees tolerate late frosts during their first few years.

Best Time to Plant Mayhaw Trees in Northern States

States: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire

Best Planting Time: Late April through May

In northern states, mayhaw trees should be planted only after the soil has thawed and the risk of hard freezes has passed. Late April through May is ideal. The University of Minnesota Extension emphasizes that planting fruit trees into cold, saturated soil can slow root growth and increase stress.

Fall planting is generally discouraged in these regions because mayhaw trees require a full growing season to establish before winter.

Best Time to Plant Mayhaw Trees in the Northeast & Mid-Atlantic

States: New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Delaware, Maryland

Best Planting Time: Late March through April

These regions offer moderate spring temperatures that support early root establishment. According to Penn State Extension, spring planting is preferred for fruit trees that bloom early, such as mayhaws, because it reduces cold stress and supports strong early growth.

Fall planting can work in well-drained soils, but spring remains the most reliable option.

Best Time to Plant Mayhaw Trees in the Southeast

States: Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Arkansas

Best Planting Time: December through February

The Southeast is the heart of traditional mayhaw production. Mild winters allow planting throughout the dormant season. According to the University of Georgia Extension, planting during winter dormancy allows fruit trees to establish roots before spring growth begins, resulting in stronger trees.

Late spring planting is discouraged because rising temperatures can stress newly planted mayhaw trees.

Best Time to Plant Mayhaw Trees in Texas, Oklahoma & the Gulf States

States: Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Florida

Best Planting Time: December through February

These regions warm quickly in spring, making winter planting ideal. According to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, mayhaw trees planted during dormancy show better early survival and stronger establishment in warm climates.

Best Time to Plant Mayhaw Trees in the Midwest

States: Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, Kansas, Nebraska

Best Planting Time: March through April

The Midwest experiences variable spring weather, so timing is critical. The University of Missouri Extension recommends early spring planting for fruit trees that prefer moist soils, such as mayhaw.

Best Time to Plant Mayhaw Trees in the Upper South & Appalachian Regions

States: Virginia, West Virginia, Eastern Kentucky, Eastern Tennessee

Best Planting Time: February through April

Moderate winters and reliable rainfall make these regions well suited for mayhaw trees. Planting in late winter or early spring supports strong root growth before summer heat arrives.

General Rule of Thumb for All States

If you are unsure about the best planting time in your area, follow this guideline supported by multiple university extension programs:

Plant mayhaw trees while they are dormant and before spring bud break.

This timing minimizes stress and allows roots to establish before flowering and leaf growth.

Planting Tips for Mayhaw Trees

Sunlight

Mayhaw trees grow best in full sun to light shade. At least 6 hours of sunlight daily supports healthy growth and fruit production.

Soil

Mayhaws tolerate wet soils better than most fruit trees. According to the USDA Forest Service, mayhaws naturally occur in floodplains and bottomlands but still require drainage to prevent root rot.

Spacing

Space mayhaw trees 15–20 feet apart to allow for mature canopy size and airflow.

Watering

Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture during the first growing season.

Why Starting With Quality Mayhaw Trees Matters

Mayhaw trees can live and produce fruit for many decades. Starting with healthy, well-grown trees ensures faster establishment, fewer problems, and stronger long-term performance.

Why Customers Choose Ty Ty Nursery To Buy Mayhaw Trees

• Large selection of mayhaw trees for sale
• Best prices without sacrificing plant quality
• Fastest in-season shipping — plant in days the Ty Ty way
• Industry-leading guarantees included free
• Certified Google Quality Store: View Reviews
• Nearly 50 years in business with over 10 million plants shipped
• Tens of thousands of 5-star reviews: Read Customer Reviews
• Live plant experts located in Ty Ty, GA — call 888-758-2252
• Convenience of shopping online and having mayhaw trees delivered directly to your door