By Kris Wetherbee | March 2008

• Introduction
• Finding the right spot
• After the fact
• What to plant
• Conquer and divide
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Finding the right spot

One of the great things about planting in summer is that most plants are in their full flush of growth—allowing you to see its form and the color of its foliage or flowers.

Anytime a plant goes into the ground, you should match the plant’s growth habits to the garden site. This is true in any season, but especially in summer when temperatures are more extreme. A plant that prefers part shade but tolerates full sun has a better chance of surviving in full sun if it’s planted in spring rather than summer. That way the roots have enough time to establish themselves before the heat of summer erupts. When planted in full sun on a hot summer day, the plant might wilt before it has a chance to situate its roots. In this case, you still can plant in summer by giving the plant what it prefers—a partly shady location.

When planting in a sunny location, another way to protect the plant is to provide temporary shade for the first week or two using a light-colored umbrella or shade cloth.

For best results, always plant on a cloudy day or in the cooler temperatures of the early evening to minimize weather-related plant stress.