Should you be planting native plants in the summer? They’re adapted to the local conditions so it shouldn’t be a problem, right? The answer isn’t as simple as yes or no. Planting in the summer presents unique challenges. If you’re thinking it probably isn’t the ideal time, you’d be right. It isn’t. Now, it isn’t impossible, but it certainly is not perfect. You will just have to take extra steps to help.
Planting in the Summer is Hard on Native Plants
Most of us are spending as much time in our yards as we can. We’re likely wondering how and where we can add more plants to the landscape. I get it, I’m there with you. This, I think, is doubled for someone who loves native plants. We know the benefits of native plants and want as many as possible to maximize those benefits. Sometimes that may mean planting in the dead of summer.
Do you want to be outside digging holes in the 90+ degree Fahrenheit? Didn’t think so. If you think digging holes in the summer is hard on your body, imagine how hard it is on a small plant. Native plants are adapted to local climate and conditions. Once established, they are hardy, beneficial, and beautiful. While native plants are certainly resilient to harsh climates, they are vulnerable while young in containers or newly planted.
Planting native plants in the summer heat can put a lot of stress on a young or newly planted plant and natives are no exception. Summer heat can cause wilting and permanent damage to the plant, especially if they are in direct sunlight or not receiving adequate hydration. During periods of high heat, plants lose water through their leaves which can cause dehydration and ultimately either damage or kill the newly planted plant.
Another problem you face when planting native plants in the summer is the soil. Have you ever tried to dig a deep hole during a heat wave or pull up weeds when it hasn’t rained in days? It’s pretty difficult work. The soil is very dry. Dry soil is very challenging on plants, especially newly planted ones. It is hard for plants to absorb nutrients and promote root growth when the ground is very dry.
Tips for Planting Native Plants in the Summer
While it is not ideal to plant in the heat of summer, it is possible. Newly planted plants require deep watering. One of the benefits of planting in Spring or Fall is the higher likelihood of rain. When you plant in the summer, you need to water the plants. Deep watering helps encourage root growth and keep the soil moist. Do not let the soil dry out which is more likely during summer. Water the plant every day, or twice a day if in a very sunny, dry location. Water daily for a week or longer if needed, afterwards, water every other day or two days until established.
Summer means more sun and young plants are especially vulnerable to wilting and leaf scorching. One way to compact this is by providing shade cloths or a temporary structure to protect the plant from direct sunlight.
Mulching helps keep soil temperatures low and retains moisture. Just be sure not to mulch right up against the plant as it can retain too much moisture and cause rot. Leave a few inches between the mulch and the stem of the plant if deciding to use mulch.
Best Time to Plant Native Plants
While you can plant in the summer heat, it certainly is not the best time. Fortunately, there are 2 other times in the year with suitable conditions: Spring and Fall. As gardeners, we think of Spring as the ideal planting time. While it is one of the best times to plant, Fall is another equally good option. Personally, Fall is one of my favorite times to plant!
So why exactly are spring and fall good times to plant plants? For starters, the temperatures are more mild compared to summer. In the spring, temperatures are warming up after a winter and similarly, in fall, temperatures begin to decline. It makes the job as a gardener much less exhausting while working in mild temperatures. Similarly, the temperatures are ideal conditions for planting new plants as well. Warm soil and mild temperatures, encourage new plants to absorb proper nutrients and promote root growth which is essential in having healthy plants. Spring and fall often have frequent rain which means you don’t have to waste precious resources watering plants to keep them alive.
When is better to plant: Spring or Fall?
Truthfully, it’s a matter of preparation, location, and preference. If you’re prepared to plant in the Spring, then plant in the spring. The plants will have the entire growing season to establish roots and by the following year will be beautiful! If you plant in the Fall, the plants will establish throughout the rest of the season and be ready to go once Spring arrives as well.
Location plays a large role in planting the Spring or Fall. I live in an area with distinguished seasons but that’s not the case in many places. If you live in a place without separate seasons look for a time with mild temperatures and adequate rainfall when planning your planting.
I like planting in spring after a long winter of designing but I like planting in the Fall more. Fall is my favorite time to plant because I become less busy in my daily schedule and most importantly, the local native plant nurseries begin discounting their plants as they try to reduce their stock before winter. Having a discount on native plants makes a huge difference when you want to plant all of them!
The Best Time to Plant was Yesterday?
The best time for planting native plants is when you have the time for planting native plants. Planting in the summer can be an option, as long as you take extra steps to help your plants thrive. While it isn’t the top choice for planting, if it’s the only time you have, then it’s the best time. As the saying goes, the best time to plant a tree native plant was yesterday, the second best time is now. Happy planting (and watering if you’re doing it now!)!
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