How late can you plant trees and shrubs?

Author: Raven Mohr  |  Last update: Sunday, December 28, 2025

Roughly September through November ideally to allow the roots to become established before the ground freezes and winter sets in. However, it is recommended that you do not continue planting trees too late into the fall because this can have a negative impact on plant health.

Is it too late to plant trees and shrubs?

It's never too late to get them in the ground, but once they've budded and leaved (which all trees did a couple months ago) they won't really develop new roots and integrate into the surrounding soil much. Trees are one of those things you really want to get in the ground early.

What's the latest you can plant a tree?

Fall is often considered the best time of year to plant new trees. Generally, late August, September and October are the best months. It all depends, though, on when it actually feels like fall. As long as the hottest days of summer are gone and the ground isn't frozen yet, you can still plant trees.

Is it okay to plant trees in August?

Planting trees in summer's heat may set them up for failure. Warm temperatures and dry conditions put stress on young trees as they try to establish themselves. When stressed, new trees are quickly depleted of energy, which they need to survive winter and emerge healthy next spring.

What month is best to plant shrubs?

Spring: Late winter to early spring (March to April) is often ideal in many regions, as it allows shrubs to establish roots before the heat of summer. Fall: Early fall (September to October) is also a great time for planting, particularly in areas with mild winters.

SPRING is NOT the BEST TIME to PLANT Trees and Shrubs!

Is it OK to plant shrubs in July?

You can plant in the hot, dry summer, but fall is really a great time to plant large shrubs and trees, as they bulk up their existing root systems over winter, letting them drink more water.

When not to plant trees?

If planted too late in the fall and the ground freezes early, the tree won't be able to establish its roots. If it goes in the ground too late in the spring, when hot temperatures have set in before the roots have established, trees can get scorched by the sun and potentially die if they can't uptake water properly.

What trees can you plant in late summer?

Top Tree Picks for Summer Planting
  • Crape Myrtle. Known for its spectacular blooms that last throughout the summer, this tree is a favorite for its dazzling display and its ability to withstand heat and drought.
  • Tulip Poplar. ...
  • Southern Magnolia. ...
  • Fig Trees.

Can you plant in July and August?

Let's look at plants that love to be in warm soil and warm air, which is just what we need in July and early August: Bush beans, pole beans and lima beans like the heat and are great choices. The beans are easy to freeze or can for winter use.

Where not to plant a tree?

Basin Placement: Trees are planted at least 3 feet away from communication, electric, and gas lines and at least 5 feet away from sewers.

Is August too late to plant perennials?

Answer: Late summer (late August to mid-September) is an excellent time to plant many perennials.

Is it better to plant small or large trees?

Smaller containers will often establish more quickly. There are lots of other benefits to planting small trees. They cost less, they have a smaller carbon footprint, they have healthier root systems, and there are more available options, including native species.

How late can I plant a tree?

Is October or November too late to plant trees? Mid-August to mid-October is an ideal time of year to plant new trees. Though, that time frame can be stretched. A good rule of thumb is that if the trees in your area still have leaves, you can plant new trees.

What is the lowest maintenance shrub?

5 Top-Rated Shrubs for Easy Maintenance Landscapes
  • Double Play® Gold Spiraea. Double Play® Gold spirea shines in the landscape from spring to fall with little to no pruning needed. ...
  • Gatsby Gal® Hydrangea. ...
  • Oso Easy® Cherry Pie Rosa. ...
  • North Pole® Arborvitae. ...
  • Spilled Wine® Weigela.

How often should I water newly planted trees and shrubs?

They should be watered at planting time and at these intervals: 1-2 weeks after planting, water daily. 3-12 weeks after planting, water every 2 to 3 days. After 12 weeks, water weekly until roots are established.

Is it OK to plant trees in July?

The sweltering heat and oppressive dryness make people wonder if it would be better to wait until fall to plant. The truth is that trees' roots grow fast during the summer and with just a little extra TLC, summer can be a great time to plant!

What is the fastest growing plant in the summer?

Basil Is a Quick-Growing Herb

Of all the herbs, basil will give you the quickest harvests in the summer months. Basil is super easy to grow from seed, but you will need to wait about 60 days before you cut your first leaves for homemade pesto.

Is it too late to plant anything in July?

July is not too late to start a garden, and you can still get a bountiful harvest in just a few weeks or months. However, you should prepare the garden quickly if you are starting in July and sow seeds or plant young transplants as early as possible.

What month is best for planting trees?

Spring and fall are the best times to plant trees and shrubs because the soil temperature is mild. Summer is too warm—remember, you want to prevent root shock! Spring is usually the preferable choice because your plants have all year to spread their roots and get established.

How close to a house is safe to plant a tree?

We recommend planting trees at least 15-20 feet away from your house to prevent problems with roots or overhanging branches. There are of course exceptions to this, but here are some general rules of thumb to consider when planting trees near your home.

Do trees need to be watered every day?

Water weekly.

Start with newly planted trees or those planted within the last two to three weeks. Large established trees should be watered every two to three weeks in dry periods.

Which tree is the easiest to grow?

Here are eight trees that are low maintenance, adapt to a wide variety of soil types, and grow in a range of light conditions:
  • 01 of 07. Jacaranda. Getty/Eduardo Morcillo. ...
  • 02 of 07. Sea Grape. Getty/Zen Rial. ...
  • 03 of 07. Frangipani. ...
  • 04 of 07. Japanese Maple. ...
  • 05 of 07. Crepe Myrtle. ...
  • 06 of 07. Redbud. ...
  • 07 of 07. Purple Leaf Plum.

What tree grows 10 feet a year?

Lombardy Poplar Tree

It can grow 8 to 10 feet per year and measures up to 30 to 40 feet tall after only three years. Vibrant yellow fall foliage and elegance adds to the Lombardy Poplar's appeal for homeowners, as well as its drought tolerance and low maintenance requirements.

How to make trees grow fast?

Here are 6 Top Tips to Promote Rapid Tree Growth:
  1. Choose the Right Species. If you're planning to plant trees from scratch, the first vital thing is to pick the right species. ...
  2. Test Your Soil. ...
  3. Ensure Your Trees Have Space. ...
  4. Water Your Trees Enough. ...
  5. Add a Layer of Mulch Around the Trees. ...
  6. Prune Your Trees Periodically.

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