Many gardeners think spring is the only season for planting trees and shrubs, but late summer is actually one of the best times to start planning a beautiful landscape. As the days begin to shorten and cooler nights arrive, plants experience less stress while continuing to develop strong root systems before winter.
With proper watering, planting now gives your landscape a healthy head start for next spring.
Cooler Nights Reduce Plant Stress
While daytime temperatures can still be warm, cooler evenings help newly planted trees and shrubs recover more easily.
Benefits include:
- Less heat stress
- Reduced moisture loss
- Better root development
- Easier transplant establishment
Plants can focus their energy on growing roots instead of coping with intense summer heat.
Warm Soil Encourages Root Growth
Even as air temperatures begin to cool, the soil remains warm well into fall.
This allows roots to continue growing for several weeks after planting, helping trees and shrubs become well established before winter dormancy.
Strong roots now lead to healthier plants next spring.
Watering Is the Key to Success
Newly planted trees and shrubs need consistent moisture while becoming established.
For best results:
- Water deeply once or twice each week
- Check soil moisture regularly
- Water slowly around the root zone
- Avoid frequent shallow watering
Deep watering encourages roots to grow deeper and become more resilient.
Mulch Helps Protect New Plantings
Adding two to three inches of mulch around newly planted trees and shrubs offers several important benefits.
Mulch helps:
- Retain soil moisture
- Regulate soil temperature
- Reduce weed competition
- Protect developing root systems
Keep mulch a few inches away from trunks and stems to prevent excess moisture around the base of the plant.
Start Planning Your Landscape
Late summer is an ideal time to refresh your yard before fall arrives.
Consider planting:
- Flowering shrubs
- Evergreens
- Shade trees
- Ornamental trees
- Native Massachusetts plants
Shopping early gives you the best selection before the busy fall planting season begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is August too hot to plant trees and shrubs?
No. With proper watering, August is an excellent time to plant many trees and shrubs as cooler nights begin to arrive.
Will roots continue growing after planting?
Yes. Warm soil allows roots to continue developing well into fall, helping plants establish before winter.
Should I mulch around newly planted trees?
Absolutely. Mulch helps conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and protect developing roots.
Is fall planting better than spring?
Both are excellent planting seasons. Late summer and early fall planting gives roots time to establish before the following growing season.
What should I plant now?
Flowering shrubs, evergreens, ornamental trees, shade trees, and many native plants are all excellent choices for late-season planting.
Visit Us
Whether you’re planting your first shade tree, adding flowering shrubs, or planning a complete landscape makeover, Whitney’s Farm Market & Garden Center has everything you need for successful late-season planting.
Whitney’s Farm Market & Garden Center
1775 S. State Rd. – Rt. 8
Cheshire, MA 01225
Phone: (413) 442-4749
Hours
Open Daily: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Visit us today and let our knowledgeable team help you choose the perfect trees and shrubs to create a beautiful landscape you’ll enjoy for years to come.
