Can You Plant Crepe Myrtle Trees in the Summer?

As one of the most widely cultivated trees in the country, the crepe myrtle is highly valued for its stunning flowers and easy-to-care-for nature. But one commonly asked question among gardeners is whether it's possible to plant crepe myrtle trees in the summer. Let's explore the answer to that question in more detail.

The Best Time to Plant Crepe Myrtle Trees

While the ideal time to plant crepe myrtle trees is in the late fall or early spring, you may still be wondering if it's possible to plant them in the summer. The answer is yes, you can, but there are some things you should keep in mind. Summer planting can be successful, but it requires a bit more care and attention than planting in the cooler months.

What to Consider When Planting Crepe Myrtle Trees in the Summer

If you decide to plant crepe myrtle trees during the summer months, there are a few things to consider to ensure that the trees survive and thrive. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:

Choose the right location: Crepe myrtle trees need well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. Look for a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.

Provide plenty of water: Summer planting means planting during the hottest time of the year. You'll need to water the trees carefully to ensure they don't dry out. Water the trees deeply once or twice a week, depending on the amount of rainfall in your area.

Mulch the trees: Adding a layer of mulch around the base of the trees can help keep the soil moist and reduce water loss. Make sure the mulch is a few inches deep and spread it out at least as far as the tree's drip line.

Prune the trees: Crepe myrtle trees benefit from regular pruning. If you're planting in the summer, prune the trees lightly to remove any damaged or broken branches. Avoid pruning more than 25% of the tree's branches, as this can stress the tree and reduce its ability to grow.

Why You Might Want to Wait Until Fall

While it's possible to plant crepe myrtle trees in the summer, there are some good reasons to wait until fall or spring. Planting in cooler weather reduces the risk of heat stress and allows the trees to establish their roots before the hot summer months. Additionally, planting in the summer may require more care and attention, which can be difficult if you're going on vacation or have a busy schedule.

Conclusion

In summary, planting crepe myrtle trees in the summer is possible, but it requires a bit more care and attention than planting in the cooler months. If you choose to plant during the summer, make sure you choose the right location, provide plenty of water, mulch the trees, and prune them lightly. However, if you're able to wait until fall or spring, you'll give your new trees a better chance of success and reduce the amount of care they require.