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Why August Is a Great Time to Plant Trees and Shrubs
Many New England gardeners think spring is the only planting season, but late August is actually one of the best times to add trees and shrubs to your landscape.
Warm soil, cooler nights, and fewer periods of extreme heat create ideal conditions for strong root development before winter arrives.
Cooler Nights Mean Less Stress
As temperatures begin to moderate, newly planted trees and shrubs experience less heat stress while continuing to establish healthy roots.
Warm Soil Encourages Root Growth
Even as top growth slows, roots continue growing well into fall.
This gives plants several weeks to establish before the ground freezes.
Water Consistently
New plantings still require regular watering.
Remember to:
- Water deeply
- Check moisture often
- Mulch around roots
- Avoid shallow daily watering
Mulch Matters
Two to three inches of mulch helps:
- Retain moisture
- Moderate soil temperatures
- Suppress weeds
- Protect developing roots
Get Ready for Fall Planting
August is the perfect time to choose:
- Flowering shrubs
- Evergreens
- Shade trees
- Native plants
- Ornamental trees
Shopping early often means better plant selection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is August too hot to plant?
No. Proper watering makes late-summer planting very successful.
Will roots continue growing?
Yes. Roots continue developing until the soil becomes cold.
Should I mulch?
Absolutely. Mulch improves moisture retention and protects roots.
Is fall planting better than spring?
Both work well, but fall offers outstanding root-growing conditions.
Can I plant evergreens now?
Yes. Late summer and early fall are excellent times.
Visit Us
Planning a landscape update? Salt Box Nursery offers beautiful trees, shrubs, evergreens, and expert advice to help you choose the right plants for New England landscapes.
Salt Box Nursery
562 Boston Road
Billerica, MA 01821
Hours
Open Daily: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
Visit us today and discover why late summer is one of the best times to plant.
