Fall and winter are ideal tree-planting times. But dare we grab the shovel, given the historic drought?

Yes, if you can water properly, experts say. This is not as daunting as it may sound. All agree that relatively few gallons a week will keep a newly planted tree's root ball moist.

Fall and winter planting gives roots a chance to settle in during the cooler months, so the tree gets a jump on the next growing season and is better equipped for summer's heat.

"We are encouraging people to plant," says Mickey Merritt of the Texas Forest Service. "While the drought is very severe, we still think it's a perfect opportunity to teach people that trees are important and to educate them on the proper way to plant and water."

This involves smart planting - plant trees you know you can water and maintain. Homeowners will find Stage II restrictions are more than adequate to keep one or two newly planted trees healthy and vigorous when watered correctly, Merritt says.

Use of sprinkler and drip systems is limited to twice a week, but hand watering is allowed any time. Water collected from the AC condensation pipe and while showering also are options.

A newly planted tree should be watered three times a week, depending on rain and drainage, according to the forest service. With each watering, apply 5 gallons per inch of trunk diameter (measured 6 inches above ground). For example, a tree with a 1-inch diameter trunk would get 5 gallons three times a week or 15 gallons a week. This watering schedule may be altered but monitor soil moisture to make sure the root zone is not too dry or too wet.

Since soil dries slower in lower temperatures, watering needs decrease in winter.

Texas AgriLife horticulturist David Rodriguez also is promoting fall planting.

More for you Lifestyle Experts encourage fall and winter tree planting, despite...

"Even if the drought continues through fall and winter, I would rather plant now when most of the trees are going dormant and require some but minimal supplemental irrigation," he says. The key is selecting the right tree for the right location, Rodriguez says. Talk with your nurseryman or arborist and see the Texas Forest Service's website (http://texastreeplanting.tamu.edu) to choose the best type and size tree for your garden.

"Trees are planted for generations to come, so planning is a crucial part before that hole is dug," Rodriguez says.

Select trees that will adapt to the sunlight and soil conditions around your home.

More Information TREE PLANTING TIPS 1. Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball and slightly shallower. The tree should be planted at or slightly above the original soil level. This is especially important in heavy clay soils to aid drainage. 2. Cut any circling roots along the outer edge of the root ball with pruning shears. 3. Pick the tree up from the bottom, not by the trunk, and place it in the hole. Hold while backfilling around the root ball with original soil from the hole. Tamp the soil lightly to eliminate air pockets. Break apart large clods before backfilling. 4. Remove any grass or weeds within a 3-foot-diameter circle around the tree and create a watering saucer. 5. Cover this bare area with 3 inches of mulch. Don't pile mulch against the trunk. 6. Adequate water is essential at planting time. Place a hose at the base of the tree and allow water to slowly trickle until the soil is saturated. TREE CARE Report dead or dying trees that could be a threat to power lines to CenterPoint Energy, 713-207-2222 or 800-332-7143. After inspection, the company may cut the tree at no cost, but the property owner is responsible for disposing of debris. See CenterPointEnergy.com/trees for tips on tree care during a drought, as well as a list of power line-friendly species and tree planting tips. HELP OUT Buy a tree and benefit Trees for Houston at the organization's Fall Tree Sale, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday at Ikea Houston, 7810 Katy Freeway. Three-foot trees are $10, 6-foot trees are $30. Available species include white oak, Shumard oak, cedar elm, pecan, red maple, Mexican plum and persimmon. Knowledgeable volunteers will help you select a tree and provide information on planting and care. For more, see www.treesforhouston.org. See More Collapse

Decide whether you want an evergreen or deciduous tree (which allows winter sunlight).

Consider the tree's mature height and width so you can plant a safe distance from your home and utility lines. A shade tree that matures to 25 or more feet should be planted at least 20 feet from your home and utility lines. A tree that matures to 20 or less feet should be spaced at least 10 feet from the house and at least 5 feet from lines.

This is an opportunity to plant drought-tolerant natives in your garden. Just remember, these future water-savers need some moisture while they establish. It's especially important to keep an eye on them the first two years.

If you buy "desert" trees, make sure you plant them in well-draining soil, advises Jon Seipel of Bill Bownds Nursery. Otherwise, they may struggle when wetter conditions return.

Container-grown tree prices vary with size and species, but generally cost from $25 to several hundred dollars. Five-gallon container-grown trees, 3-5 feet tall with trunks 1 inch or less in diameter, are more readily available. Some nurseries stock 15-gallon trees that are 8 to 10 feet. Thirty- to 95-gallon trees may have to be special-ordered or bought at tree nurseries. Most gardeners opt to pay delivery costs for trees taller than 10 feet.

kathy.huber@chron.com