Spring Has Arrived in Richmond: What to Plant, When to Plant It, and How to Set Up a Healthy Year
Spring has arrived in Central Virginia. Here's what JRN recommends for spring planting, refreshing beds, and setting your Richmond landscape up for a healthy year.
Published on
March 20, 2026
Updated on
July 8, 2026

Spring is the ideal time to install most trees, shrubs, and perennials in Central Virginia because soil temperatures are rising, rainfall is consistent, and plants have a full growing season ahead to establish before the heat of summer.

Why Spring Is Such a Strong Planting Season in Central Virginia

Spring in Central Virginia means longer days, warmer temperatures, and fresh growth all around. This is when landscapes truly come to life — vibrant blooms, lush new greenery, and that unmistakable feeling of everything waking up at once. It is also the strongest installation season of the year for most plant material, because soil temperatures are warm enough for new roots, the rain is generally cooperating, and plants have months to establish before the worst summer heat arrives.

What's a Strong Spring Project in Richmond?

Spring at JRN means planting season is in full swing. It's the perfect time to:

  • Install new trees and shrubs — both shade trees and ornamentals
  • Refresh tired beds with new mulch, edging, and fresh perennials
  • Add seasonal color with annuals and spring-blooming perennials
  • Tackle drainage corrections that became obvious over the winter
  • Address curb appeal projects ahead of the busiest months at home
  • Begin a full landscape transformation that will mature over the next several seasons

Spring is also the most competitive time for landscape installation in Central Virginia, so the sooner you connect with the JRN team, the more flexible the schedule.

Set Your Landscape Up for a Strong, Healthy Year

Whether you're dreaming of colorful curb appeal, better drainage, or a full outdoor transformation, now is the time to get started. A healthy spring install — done by a team that has done it thousands of times — sets the entire year of growth in motion.

Let's make this your best landscape yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to plant trees and shrubs in Virginia?

The best times to plant trees and shrubs in Virginia are early spring (March through May) and fall (September through November). Both windows allow plants to establish roots in mild weather before facing summer heat or winter cold. Spring planting takes advantage of consistent rainfall and a long growing season.

Can I plant in summer in Richmond, VA?

Plants can be installed in summer in Richmond, but they require more careful watering and establishment care because of higher temperatures and more evaporation. Container-grown nursery stock is generally more forgiving of summer planting than balled-and-burlapped material.

How do I get on the spring schedule with a landscape company?

To get on the spring schedule with a landscape company in Central Virginia, reach out as early as possible — ideally in late winter. James River Nurseries begins booking spring projects in January and February, and the calendar fills quickly once warmer weather arrives.

Plan Your Next Project With James River Nurseries

Ready to make this your best landscape yet? Reach out at jamesrivernurseries.com/contact or call 804-798-2020 to get on JRN's spring schedule.

Further Reading & Sources

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