Can You Plant Arborvitae In The Summer

Yes, you can plant arborvitae in the summer, but it takes extra effort to keep them healthy.
 
If you’re wondering whether you can plant arborvitae in the summer, the short answer is yes, it’s possible.
 
Many homeowners ask if they can plant arborvitae in the summer because that’s when they finally have time to garden.
 
Planting arborvitae in the summer is riskier than spring or fall, but with proper care you can still get great results.
 
In this post, we’ll explain how you can plant arborvitae in the summer and what steps make it work.
 
Let’s walk through everything you need to know about planting arborvitae during the hottest months.
 

Why You Can Plant Arborvitae in the Summer

You can plant arborvitae in the summer because these evergreens are hardy and adapt well if handled correctly.
 
The key is understanding the challenges and meeting them head-on.
 
Here are the main reasons planting arborvitae in the summer can succeed.
 

Arborvitae Are Resilient Evergreens

Arborvitae are tough plants that tolerate a range of conditions once established.
 
When you plant arborvitae in the summer, their natural resilience helps them cope with heat stress.
 
They have a fibrous root system that can absorb water quickly if you keep the soil moist.
 
That resilience is why many gardeners choose to plant arborvitae in the summer without losing them.
 

Summer Soil Is Warm for Root Growth

Warm soil actually encourages faster root development compared to cold spring ground.
 
If you plant arborvitae in the summer, the warm earth helps roots spread and establish quickly.
 
Roots grow most actively when soil temperatures are between 60°F and 75°F.
 
So planting arborvitae in the summer means roots have optimal conditions for expansion.
 

You Can Control the Environment

Unlike relying on perfect weather, you have direct control over watering and shading.
 
When you plant arborvitae in the summer, you can water deeply every day until they settle in.
 
You can also provide temporary shade during the hottest afternoon hours.
 
That control makes it possible to plant arborvitae in the summer even in warm climates.
 

Best Practices for Planting Arborvitae in the Summer

To successfully plant arborvitae in the summer, follow these proven techniques.
 
Each step reduces stress on the plant and increases survival rates.
 

Choose the Right Time of Day

Always plant arborvitae in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.
 
If you plant arborvitae in the summer midday, the intense sun can shock the roots.
 
Morning planting gives the tree a full day of cooler conditions to adjust.
 
Evening planting works too because night temperatures drop and humidity rises.
 

Prepare the Soil Deeply

Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper than its height.
 
When you plant arborvitae in the summer, loose soil allows roots to spread faster.
 
Mix in organic compost to retain moisture and improve drainage.
 
Don’t amend the soil too heavily, or the roots may stay inside the enriched area.
 

Water Thoroughly and Consistently

Water is the most critical factor when you plant arborvitae in the summer.
 
Give each tree a deep soak right after planting, letting water penetrate 6–8 inches.
 
For the first two weeks, water daily unless rain provides at least an inch.
 
After that, water every other day for another month to keep roots moist.
 
Mulch around the base with 2–3 inches of wood chips to slow evaporation.
 

Provide Temporary Shade

Direct afternoon sun can scorch newly planted arborvitae in summer heat.
 
Erect a shade cloth or use a lightweight sheet draped over stakes.
 
Leave it in place for about two weeks until the tree starts settling in.
 
This simple step greatly increases success when you plant arborvitae in the summer.
 

Common Mistakes When You Plant Arborvitae in the Summer

Avoid these errors to make sure your arborvitae survive the season.
 
Even experienced gardeners slip up when planting arborvitae in the summer.
 

Planting Too Deep

Never bury the root flare, the spot where the trunk meets the roots, below the soil line.
 
When you plant arborvitae in the summer too deep, the stem can rot in moist warm ground.
 
Always keep the top of the root ball level with or slightly above the surrounding soil.
 

Skipping the Soak Before Planting

Always hydrate the root ball thoroughly before placing it in the ground.
 
Dry root balls repel water, so if you plant arborvitae in the summer without soaking, they may not absorb moisture.
 
Submerge the container or burlap ball in a bucket of water for 15 minutes before planting.
 

Overwatering After Establishment

While consistent moisture is vital, waterlogged roots can suffocate.
 
If you plant arborvitae in the summer and then water too much, root rot becomes a risk.
 
Check soil moisture by sticking your finger 2 inches deep, if it feels wet, skip watering.
 
Let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings once the tree is established.
 

So, Can You Plant Arborvitae in the Summer?

Yes, you can plant arborvitae in the summer, but it requires careful attention.
 
The warmer months bring heat and dry conditions that stress young trees.
 
But with proper timing, deep watering, shade, and good soil prep, planting arborvitae in the summer is absolutely doable.
 
Many gardeners have planted arborvitae in the summer and watched them thrive.
 
Just remember to monitor your trees daily for the first few weeks.
 
If you follow the steps above, you can plant arborvitae in the summer with confidence and enjoy a beautiful green hedge for years to come.