Why August Is a Great Time to Plant Trees and Shrubs

Many gardeners think spring is the only season for planting trees and shrubs, but August is actually one of the best times to start planning and planting. As the days begin to shorten and cooler nights arrive, plants experience less stress while continuing to develop strong root systems before winter.

With proper watering, planting now gives your landscape a healthy head start for next spring.

Cooler Nights Reduce Plant Stress

While daytime temperatures can still be warm, cooler evenings help newly planted trees and shrubs recover more easily.

Benefits include:

• Less heat stress
• Reduced moisture loss
• Better root development
• Easier transplant establishment

Plants can focus their energy on growing roots instead of coping with extreme summer heat.

Warm Soil Encourages Root Growth

Even as air temperatures begin to cool, the soil remains warm well into the fall.

This allows roots to continue growing for several weeks after planting, helping trees and shrubs become well established before winter arrives.

Strong roots now lead to healthier plants next spring.

Watering Is the Key to Success

Newly planted trees and shrubs need consistent moisture while becoming established.

For best results:

• Water deeply once or twice each week
• Check soil moisture regularly
• Water slowly at the base of the plant
• Avoid frequent, shallow watering

Deep watering encourages stronger, deeper root systems.

Mulch Helps Protect New Plantings

Adding two to three inches of mulch around newly planted trees and shrubs offers several benefits.

Mulch helps:

• Retain soil moisture
• Keep roots cooler
• Suppress weeds
• Protect developing root systems

Keep mulch a few inches away from trunks and stems to prevent excess moisture around the base of the plant.

Start Planning Your Fall Landscape

August is the perfect time to think about improving your landscape before fall arrives.

Consider adding:

• Flowering shrubs
• Evergreen shrubs
• Shade trees
• Ornamental trees
• Native plants

Shopping early gives you the best selection before the busiest fall planting season begins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is August too hot to plant trees and shrubs?

Not at all. With consistent watering, August is an excellent time to plant many trees and shrubs as cooler nights begin to arrive.

Will roots continue growing after planting?

Yes. Roots continue developing while the soil remains warm, often well into the fall season.

Should I mulch around newly planted trees?

Absolutely. Mulch helps conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and protect developing roots.

Is fall planting better than spring?

Both are excellent planting seasons. Planting in late summer and early fall gives roots time to establish before winter, helping plants get off to a strong start in spring.

What should I plant this time of year?

Flowering shrubs, evergreens, ornamental trees, shade trees, and many native plants are all excellent choices for late summer planting.

Visit Us

Whether you’re planning a landscape makeover, planting your first tree, or adding beautiful flowering shrubs, Donaldson’s Greenhouse & Nursery has everything you need for successful late-season planting.

Donaldson’s Greenhouse & Nursery
178 Airport Road
Hackettstown, NJ 07840

Phone: (908) 852-7314

Current Hours
Monday through Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Visit us today and let our knowledgeable team help you choose the perfect trees and shrubs to create a beautiful landscape that will thrive for years to come.