The “Summer Planting” Myth: Yes, You Can Plant a Large Tree in July

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that you can still plant a large tree in July and see strong results with the right care.

A lot of people assume summer is automatically the wrong planting season for trees because of the heat. While hot weather can create additional challenges for newly planted trees, modern transplanting methods have made summer planting much more reliable than many homeowners expect.

With proper installation and aftercare, July can actually be an excellent time to add a mature tree to your property.

For homeowners who want faster shade, added privacy, or a more established yard, summer planting can deliver results much sooner than younger spring plantings.

Why Many Homeowners Avoid Planting Trees in Summer

The concern around summer planting usually comes down to transplant shock.

When a tree is moved, it loses part of its root system. During hot weather, trees also lose moisture faster through their leaves and the surrounding soil. If watering is inconsistent or the tree is installed improperly, problems can develop quickly.

That is why many people assume summer planting automatically leads to failure.

In reality, the season itself is not usually the problem. Poor aftercare is.

Most planting issues happen because of:

• Shallow watering
• Dry root balls during installation
• Poor soil preparation
• Lack of mulch around the root zone
• Planting too deeply

When those problems are avoided, many trees establish successfully even during warmer months.

How B&B Trees and Spade Moved Trees Reduce Summer Transplant Shock

Not all transplanted trees experience the same level of stress.

Balled and burlapped (B&B) trees and spade-moved trees are planted in a way that protects more of the root system.

Benefits of these planting methods include:

• Keeping the root ball protected during transport and planting
• Preserving more feeder roots for water and nutrient absorption
• Reducing exposure to heat and drying conditions during the move
• Minimizing root damage with large spade truck equipment
• Lowering strain through faster and more efficient installation
• Helping trees settle into their new location more smoothly with proper watering afterward

When handled correctly, these methods make it possible to plant a large tree in July with much less transplant shock than many homeowners expect.

One of the Biggest Benefits: Instant Shade

One reason homeowners choose larger trees in summer is the immediate impact.Instead of waiting years for a young tree to grow tall enough to cool a patio or provide privacy, a mature tree can change the feel of a yard almost immediately.

Strategically placed shade trees can help:

• Cool outdoor living areas
• Reduce direct afternoon sun
• Improve curb appeal
• Create a more established landscape appearance
• Add privacy faster than smaller plantings

For many homeowners, planting a large tree in July means enjoying shade and a more established yard right away.

Summer Tree Planting Rules Every Homeowner Should Follow

Successful summer planting depends heavily on aftercare. Proper tree care helps the tree focus on root recovery and long-term establishment.

Water Deeply and Consistently

Newly planted trees need more than quick surface watering.

Deep watering helps moisture reach the full root ball, encouraging roots to grow downward instead of staying near the surface.

In most cases:

• Water deeply about 2 to 3 times per week
• Increase watering during extreme heat
• Check soil moisture below the surface regularly

The goal is consistent moisture, not constantly soaked soil.

Add Mulch to Hold Moisture

Mulch acts like insulation for the soil around the tree.

A proper mulch layer can:

• Reduce moisture loss
• Keep soil temperatures more stable
• Limit weed competition
• Help roots stay cooler during hot afternoons

Apply mulch about 2 to 3 inches deep around the planting area, but avoid piling it directly against the trunk.

Use Root Stimulators After Planting

Root stimulators can help encourage new root development after transplanting.

This is especially useful during summer because trees are balancing active growth with heat-related conditions.

Products designed for root support may help:

• Encourage faster root establishment
• Reduce transplant impact
• Improve nutrient uptake during recovery

These treatments work best when combined with proper watering habits.

Watch Trees Closely During Heat Waves

Even well-planted trees may need extra attention during periods of extreme summer heat.

During hotter stretches:

• Check soil moisture more often
• Watch for wilting or leaf curl
• Avoid unnecessary pruning immediately after planting

Small adjustments during the first several weeks can help prevent larger problems later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can large trees really be planted in July?

Yes. Homeowners can successfully plant a large tree in July when it is installed properly and watered consistently afterward.

Why do B&B trees experience less transplant shock?

B&B trees keep more of their root system protected during transport and planting. This helps the tree adjust more easily after installation and reduces transplant stress.

How often should newly planted trees be watered in summer?

Most newly planted trees benefit from deep watering about 2 to 3 times per week. Trees may need additional watering during periods of extreme heat or dry weather.

Is mulch necessary during summer planting?

Yes. Mulch helps hold moisture in the soil, regulates root temperatures, and reduces moisture loss during hot weather.

Do root stimulators actually help?

Root stimulators can support root development and recovery after transplanting. When you plant a large tree in July, it may also help the tree establish more efficiently during summer conditions.

Arbor Hills Tree Farm & Nursery Omaha

We provide the highest quality field-grown Nebraska Trees and Shrubs – directly to our customers, at the lowest possible price.

Whether you are looking for trees for:

• new home landscaping
• wind blockage
• commercial or residential

Simply select the tree(s) you want, and they will be ready for pickup or delivery the following Saturday Morning. The trees are easy to handle and plant. Click here for more information.