Successfully Establishing Trees During Summer for Optimal Growth
Growing Trees in Summer: A Comprehensive Guide
In a bid to keep landscapes thriving during the hotter months, opting for drought-tolerant trees can be the key. Here's a selection of some resilient trees suitable for planting during the summer, along with adequate watering and care recommendations.
Top Drought-Tolerant Trees for Summer
- Red Maple (Acer rubrum)
- A vibrant foliage tree, it boasts improved drought tolerance after establishment in its preferred zones, 3 to 9.
- Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)
- It offers a unique leaf shape and spectacular fall colors, while being exceptionally resistant to dry conditions, pests, and diseases in zones 3 to 9.
- Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)
- This tree bursts into colorful summer blooms, thrives with minimal water, and boasts flexible wood and wind resistance, particularly in zones 7 to 10.
- Arbequina Olive Tree
- Known for its fruit and Mediterranean look, it requires little water once established in zones 8 to 11.
- Desert Willow (Chilopsis linearis)
- It showcases attractive flowers and thrives in arid conditions in zones 7 to 11.
Recommended Watering and Care
- Initial watering: New trees require deep and regular watering once or twice weekly until their roots are well established (approximately two years).
- Established trees: Reduce watering frequency significantly, as most drought-tolerant trees only need supplemental water during prolonged dry spells or during extreme heat.
- Deep watering: Encourage deep root growth by watering slowly, allowing water to penetrate the soil to a depth of 12 to 18 inches.
- Soil: Ensure soil is well-draining to forestall root rot. Apply a 2 to 4-inch layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, but keep it a few inches away from the trunk.
- Sun Exposure: Most drought-tolerant trees thrive best under full sun conditions.
- Pruning: Minimal pruning should be restricted to the removal of dead or damaged branches.
- Fertilization: Light fertilization with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring may be warranted, but avoid over-fertilization to prevent added stress on the trees.
By selecting these trees and adhering to these care guidelines, your landscape will maintain its strength and beauty even in the summer's driest conditions.
Martha Stewart suggests cultivating a drought-tolerant garden with Red Maple (Acer rubrum), Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica), Arbequina Olive Tree, and Desert Willow (Chilopsis linearis). Each of these trees displays unique qualities and resilience, making them ideal for summer landscaping.
In terms of home-and-garden lifestyle, watering and care recommendations are crucial. For instance, new trees need deep and regular watering, while established trees should receive minimal water, only during prolonged dry spells or extreme heat.
Gardening experts advise encouragement of deep root growth by watering slowly, using a well-draining soil, applying organic mulch around the base of trees, and providing full sun exposure for most drought-tolerant trees. Pruning should be done sparingly, focusing on the removal of dead or damaged branches, and fertilization should be light to avoid adding stress to the trees during summer landscaping.
