Once fall is in full swing, escaping the heat is rarely a concern for homeowners in the South. Although everyone in the family might have to bundle up a bit to spend time in the yard, it’s still a good idea to start thinking ahead to your future comfort. Planting trees in fall will ensure there’s ample shade to provide relief from the summer sun’s glare and heat. Below are a few reasons to make tree planting the #1 project on your autumn landscaping priority list.  

3 Reasons Planting Summer Shade in Autumn Is a Great Idea

1. Roots Grow Stronger

Trees invented the old saying “put down roots.” Without a healthy root system, a tree won’t have a long lifespan. Planting in fall will ensure your family can enjoy beauty and shade for years to come. The damp conditions mean it’s easier for roots to absorb water from soil, making them strong enough to anchor in the ground. The air temperature is cooler than the soil, too, which promotes root growth. Because conditions remain cool until spring, roots have several months to develop before summer heat waves deplete soil of moisture.

Nuttall Oak is a hardwood tree that grows well in the region. It provides shade in summer and displays red leaves to add color to the yard in autumn.  

2. Heat Won’t Damage Tissue

You can try smearing sunblock on a tree’s bark, but it’s not going to work as it does with humans, and you might get some strange looks from the neighbors. During summer, hot air can dry out tree tissue. The radiating heat when the sun shines on nearby pavement can also lead to poor tree health. Conditions are much milder in fall, which means you won’t have to worry about dehydration or heat stroke curbing tree growth.

Red maple trees grow quickly in various soil conditions, which means you won’t have to wait long until they can provide summer shade. 

3. Trees Can Store Moisture

The movement of water through a tree is called transpiration. It’s more than a fancy word for “drinking.” The process cools off the plant and supplies leaves with water and minerals needed for photosynthesis. Transpiration is low when temperatures drop. This means a tree can conserve more water to stay healthy and thrive once summer arrives.

If you want to transform your yard into the most popular hangout spot on your property, the landscapers at Edgefield Plant & Stone Center are excited to help. Folks throughout Guilford County, NC, and neighboring communities turn to the Edgefield team for perennials, trees, and landscape installation to boost the aesthetic appeal, functionality, and comfort of their homes. To discuss how the Greensboro-based landscape design experts will execute your vision, call (336) 662-0081. If you need a bit of inspiration, visit the company’s website and Facebook page to see pictures of completed projects.