Cultivating them during the warmer periods demands extra care, however, with appropriate attention, this can be achieved.
- You can cultivate trees during summertime, but they necessitate extra watering, specialized care, and attentiveness.
- Some tree species, such as black tupelo and Mediterranean hackberry, are more appropriate for summertime planting.
- If you’re unsure, it’s best to seek advice from a nearby tree care professional who can recommend which species of trees will flourish in your area—especially if planting occurs during the summertime.
Many tree owners prefer
To begin planting trees in either fall or spring.
However, it’s still feasible to plant them during the summertime. You’ll simply have to pay additional care and attention to your trees.
When temperatures soar, numerous factors must be taken into account for successful tree cultivation, ranging from providing ample hydration to carefully selecting species. In our discussion with specialists, we uncovered strategies to ensure thriving summer tree planting endeavors.
Meet the Experts
-
Andrew Fisher Tomlin
, horticulturist, co-founder of
Fisher Tomlin & Bowyer
, and author of
The Contemporary Expert in Plant Arrangement -
Mark Brewer
, caretaker and proprietor of
The Living Urn
, a nursery mainly dedicated to offering trees as tributes for departed loved ones and pets
Related:
9 Drought-Resistant Trees That Flourish Even If You Neglect to Water Them
Plants to Grow in Summer
Some trees thrive in arid climates and high temperatures, making them
well-suited for summertime planting
Black tupelo serves as an excellent illustration.
“
It’s an excellent choice for a petite garden tree.
“With vibrant red and yellow foliage during fall,” explains Andrew Fisher Tomlin, horticulturist and co-founder of Fisher Tomlin & Boyer. “This plant dislikes being transplanted, so
preferable to sow it as a young, potted specimen
.”
The honeylocust is another remarkably versatile tree and has the ability to adapt well.
endure a range of soil types
It’s a comprehensive success, and the main requirement it truly needs is ample sunlight,” he notes. “It can handle exposed, windy locations and is highly drought-tolerant.
Another choice is the Mediterranean hackberry, which features unremarkable blooms yet boasts an extended duration of leaves. “This tree is highly versatile and thrives in bright sunlight under more protected conditions. Additionally, it ranks among numerous species that can withstand droughts,” according to Tomlin.
Trees such as crape myrtles, lacebark pines, strawberry trees, sweet gums, yellowwoods, along with cherry and fig trees, can also flourish when planted during the summertime.
Areas to Steer Clear of for Summer Planting
There are some
Trees you should absolutely avoid planting in your garden
, and some of these should never be cultivated in specific states throughout the summertime.
If you reside in regions with extremely hot summers, such as those found in Florida, Arizona, and parts of Texas, it’s advisable to wait till autumn for planting your tree, according to Mark Brewer, who owns The Living Urn.
When you’re planting or moving trees, they require mild weather and temperature conditions. Additionally, these plants need between three to six months to stabilize and develop their root systems prior to facing harsh temperatures, which would otherwise force them to expend extra energy for survival, as he notes.
By waiting for either spring or fall, you allow the tree an opportunity to acclimate to its new surroundings. As Brewer explains, “The tree will develop additional roots and absorb sufficient nutrients to recover from being transplanted before facing harsh winter chills or summer heats.”
Related:
6 Locations Where You Should Absolutely Avoid Planting Fruit Trees, Say Horticulture Professionals
Ways to Plant Trees During Summer Season
Once you’ve selected the appropriate drought-tolerant species, the emphasis should be on watering. In this section, Tomlin explains how to plant trees during summertime—and
When should you water them?
.
- Excavate a squared-off area larger than the tree pot, ensuring it isn’t dug any deeper than the rootball. “A square-shaped hole encourages the young roots to extend outward in every direction.”
-
Next, thoroughly water the root ball and refill with the soil you removed earlier, making sure that the flare of the tree (the area where the trunk starts) remains above the soil line. “You can
add some well-rotted compost
Add some additional water-retaining characteristics to the backfill, although this step is optional.” - Water your tree again.
-
Apply mulch generously at the bottom of the tree, employing a depth of 3 to 4 inches.
bark mulch
This is crucial for maintaining the dampness in the earth surrounding the tree. -
For bigger trees, provide staking and support.
If you’re dealing with critters such as rabbits and deer
, you may also consider offering a tree guard.”
How to Look After the Tree Post-Planting
It’s crucial to water regularly. As Tomlin points out, “Ensuring steady watering is vital for setting up your summertime planted tree.” Continue this regimen three times each week throughout the warm period until the tree becomes dormant.
deciduous trees
This is when they shed their leaves.
In the initial year, you shouldn’t apply fertilizer; instead, focus on regular watering and applying mulch. He also mentions that even if it rains, this might not be sufficient for your newly planted tree, so continue providing steady hydration as needed.
He mentions that when fall arrives, make sure to replenish the mulch. As spring approaches, stay vigilant regarding the weather conditions. “Many newly planted trees succumb during late spring as their caretakers often neglect them and fail to provide sufficient watering during those initial dry spells,” he explains. “Although your tree might be developing a solid root network, a combination of dryness and cold in early spring could prove detrimental without proper hydration.”
Disadvantages of Planting During Summertime
Planting a tree in summertime is definitely doable, yet it has several considerations you should keep in mind for optimal growth. Be aware of these potential issues when choosing to plant during this season.
Your Tree Will Require Ample Hydration
Even the toughest trees that can withstand high temperatures and dry conditions will require additional care when planted during summertime. As Tomlin points out, “Planting anything in the summer means giving it extra attention for watering.”
If your plan involves a lengthy trip
, then you should consider waiting until you come back before planting.”
To put it differently, growing trees during summertime involves frequent watering, with someone needing to ensure they receive adequate moisture regularly. If this isn’t feasible, consider installing an irrigation setup such as a basic drip line encircling each tree or using separate tree soaker systems for proper hydration.
You May Require Professional Assistance
Consider talking to a professional arborist about successfully planting in your area during the summer. “A young tree is a financial investment and will require a lot of water,” says Brewer, “which is also an additional cost—not to mention the time and attention needed to support a freshly-planted tree in the summer.”
Certainly, this will be an evolving endeavor, so keeping professional guidance accessible could prove valuable despite the additional expenses involved.
The Tree May Not Grow as Much
Your newly planted tree might not show significant growth during its initial growing season. This is because it is establishing robust root systems and preparing for substantial development the following year, explains Tomlin.
Ultimately, the intense summer warmth might be adding more strain on the tree, causing it to focus solely on survival. “If you notice leaves still present towards the tips of the branches, this indicates that water is reaching even the farthest parts of your tree, ensuring it remains hydrated,” he explains.
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Martha Stewart
