U.S. researchers say that while spring is the traditional planting season it's not the only season for trees, many of which do better planted in the fall.

Researches at Purdue University have released a publication, available free online, meant to provide home owners and arborists with complete information on tree planting whatever the season, a university release reported Monday.

"Tree Installation: Process and Practices" covers every aspect of planting from selecting the right tree, planting location, irrigation and maintenance whatever the season, researchers said.

"Some of our favorite landscape trees, such as lindens, sycamores, honeylocusts and crabapples, do quite well when planted in the fall, with proper care," Purdue urban forestry expert Lindsey Purcell said.

A newly planted tree needs to establish a root system capable of supporting its canopy to survive its first winter, Purcell said, so tree species that are slower to establish roots, such as magnolia, dogwood, black gum, bald cypress and several types of oak, can experience winter damage.

"This publication is not just about how to plant a tree but also the thought process that goes into choosing and placement of that tree," Purcell said. "Digging a hole and putting the tree in it is just one small part of the process. We want to reap the benefits of that tree for 50, 100, 300 years down the road, so it is critical to plan for that planting."

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