“It’s Too Hot to Plant”: Summer Planting Myths Debunked

You’ve found the perfect perennial. The border is prepped. But the forecast? Nothing but sun and sweat for days.

And suddenly, that little voice says: “It’s too hot to plant right now.”

Let’s press pause on that. Because the truth is, you can absolutely plant in summer—you just need to plant differently than you would in spring or fall.

So let’s bust this myth wide open, and share some smart, simple strategies to help your garden keep growing—even when the thermometer rises.

☀️ Myth: Summer Planting Is Always a Bad Idea

✅ Truth: Summer planting can work beautifully—as long as you pay attention to water, timing, and aftercare.

Yes, it’s hotter. Yes, plants can stress more quickly. But it’s not a no-go. In fact, we have perennials ready for delivery all season for this exact reason: people plant throughout the summer.

🌱 Myth: Perennials Won’t Establish Well in Heat

✅ Truth: Warm soil actually helps roots grow faster—sometimes better than in cold spring ground.

What matters is keeping the roots moist while they settle. With consistent watering and mulching, many plants take off just fine, even in July.

🌳 Myth: You Should Wait Until Fall

✅ Truth: Fall has perks—but so does now.

Fall-planted perennials don’t always have time to root before frost. Summer gives them an earlier start this year—and a stronger return next spring.

💧 Smart Summer Planting Tips

If you're planting in the heat, here’s how to set your perennials up for success:

• Water deeply before and after planting—not just the surface

• Plant in early morning or evening to avoid peak heat

• Mulch around the plant (but keep it off the crown!) to hold moisture

• Check daily for the first week, then taper to every 2–3 days as roots take hold

• Shade new plants temporarily with a garden umbrella or cloth if heat is intense

🌿 Bonus tip: Choose perennials with drought tolerance and sturdy roots. Think Echinacea, Salvia, Amsonia, or Sedum for summer wins.

🌼 Great Summer-Ready Perennials to Try

If you're planting in heat, try these strong starters that bounce back quickly:

• Echinacea ‘Sombrero Salsa Red’ – Bold, sturdy, and bee-friendly

• Salvia ‘Caradonna’ – Elegant spires that thrive in sun

• Coreopsis ‘Zagreb’ – Bright, compact, and heat-loving

• Amsonia ‘Storm Cloud’ – Strong roots, long life

• Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ – Practically unbothered by heat or drought

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let the Heat Stop You

Sure, planting in July might mean sweating through your T-shirt—but it’s not too late. With a little intention and extra care, summer can be a thriving time to grow.

So if you’ve been holding back because it “feels too hot,” trust your instincts—and your watering can. Your garden doesn’t follow a calendar. It follows you.