Planting Trees in Summer: Debunking the Myth

It might seem illogical, but summer can actually be a great time to plant trees.

Many of the trees found at nurseries and garden centers, whether potted or wrapped in burlap, are prepared by growers for year-round planting. With proper care, these trees can be successfully planted in any season, including the heat of summer.

Dig in, let's grow!

You might think that the hot weather would be more stressful for newly planted trees, but studies have shown that trees often develop stronger root systems more quickly in warm soil. This gives summer planting a surprising advantage over spring and fall, when the soil tends to be cooler and less conducive to rapid root growth.

So where did the idea that spring and fall are the only times to plant trees come from? This long-held belief dates back to earlier generations, our fathers, grandfathers, and beyond, who followed traditional methods of tree planting. Back then, planting usually involved tagging a tree in the woods and waiting until the sap was down to dig it up and transplant it, typically in the spring or fall.

Planted in the summer

Naturally, the wisdom of our forefathers still influences how we think today. Many people still consult The Farmer’s Almanac, first published in 1792 by Robert B. Thomas. While it offers timeless advice, our modern understanding of horticulture and climate has come a long way since then.

Thanks to innovations in nursery practices, growers have made tree planting easier than ever. Potted and burlap-wrapped trees are now available year-round, helping meet both seasonal demand and planting flexibility. So yes, with the right care, planting a tree in the middle of summer can be not only possible, but beneficial.

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