Plant Shrubs in Summer: What Works, What Doesn’t, and How to Do It Right

When you think of planting shrubs, spring usually comes to mind—but planting shrubs in summer, the practice of establishing woody plants during the hottest months. Also known as summer transplanting, it’s not impossible, just riskier. Many gardeners assume summer is too hot, too dry, too harsh. But the truth? Some shrubs thrive if you give them the right start. It’s not about avoiding summer—it’s about choosing the right plants and doing the work right.

Not all shrubs are built the same. drought-tolerant shrubs, plants naturally adapted to dry conditions like lavender, ceanothus, and hebe handle summer heat better than thirsty varieties like hydrangeas or rhododendrons. If you’re planting in June or July, pick species that already grow wild in your area. Local nurseries know what survives here—ask them. Also, timing matters. Plant in the early morning or late evening when the sun’s low. Avoid midday heat. Water deeply right after planting, then keep the soil moist—not soggy—for at least six weeks. Mulch helps. A 5cm layer of wood chips or bark keeps roots cool and cuts evaporation.

Soil prep is just as important as when you plant. If your soil is hard or clay-heavy, loosen it a foot down. Add compost if it’s poor. But don’t over-fertilize—new roots are fragile. Too much food burns them. And don’t forget wind. Summer winds dry out leaves fast. If your garden’s exposed, use a temporary shade cloth for the first week. It’s not cheating—it’s insurance.

There’s a reason landscapers plant shrubs in autumn: cooler temps, steady rain, less stress. But if you missed that window, don’t panic. You can still get results in summer if you’re smart. The key is matching the plant to the season, not forcing the season to fit the plant. Look at the posts below—you’ll find real tips on what shrubs survive UK summers, how to water them without wasting water, and what to do if your new shrub starts wilting. No fluff. Just what works.