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Can You Plant Trees in the Summer in Wasco, CA?

can you plant trees in the summer

When you’re planning a tree planting on your property, professionals offering tree services in Wasco, CA, typically recommend planting in spring or autumn. However, if you don’t have any other choice, can you plant trees in the summer in Wasco, CA? Summer heat makes the job tougher, but you can succeed by following specific guidelines.

Why Summer Tree Planting Is Not Usually Recommended

High summer temperatures place stress on newly planted saplings. Summer is when trees focus energy on supporting leaf and branch growth, leaving less energy for roots. The roots might struggle to establish themselves during this time, affecting the tree’s stability and health.

The young plant will have a better chance at success during cooler conditions in early spring or late fall when the roots can receive more energy for growth. 

Beyond planting a young sapling, moving an established tree from one location to another is not recommended in summer. The risks of transplant shock and a dead tree are higher when dealing with excessively hot weather. Transplanting always has a better chance at success when the plant is in dormancy.

Steps for Protecting New Saplings in Summer

Even though most professionals recommend planting a sapling in spring or autumn rather than summer, some people may need to plant in summer, accepting the risks. Can you plant trees in the summer and have success? It just requires taking some extra precautions and tree care maintenance steps to protect the plant.

Water Deeply During Hot Weather

Instead of watering the sapling a little bit every day, you should water deeply near the trunk during the summer’s heat. Investing in a soaker hose for this type of watering is a smart idea, as it delivers the right amount of water over a couple of hours.

Use Mulch To Manage Soil Temperature

Adding mulch around the sapling’s trunk helps keep the soil beneath moist. Mulch also keeps the soil near the trunk at a more stable temperature during summer. Both of these items are beneficial for the sapling’s root health.

Select Heat-Resistant Species

Some trees are better able to tolerate summer heat. Planting one of these species in summer increases its chances of success. Ask a local arborist for help selecting the right species, including white firs, hackberries, and honey locusts.

No Matter When You Plant Your Trees, the Experts at General Tree Service Can Give You a Successful Outcome

So, can you plant trees in the summer? Although it’s not always recommended, using a proper watering schedule, soil preparation, and mulching techniques can help you succeed. With a little extra time and care, many species of trees planted in summer can grow into healthy, strong specimens.

At General Tree Service, our experts can advise you on which species may have a better chance at successful growth after a summer planting. You can trust our arborists for all your tree care needs. For a free cost estimate for any of our services, contact us today at (661) 323-3155.