summer planting

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Margaret:

I think your success at planting now will depend on what you are planting and if you can water it adequately for the first season.  As most folks on this list are aware, even so-called drought-tolerant plants will require some supplemental water their first dry season.  There is also a risk associated with leaving plants in pots too long.  Especially woody plants can develop difficult to correct circling and girdling roots if left in during a growing season.  Are the things you are planting out summer dormant, like our Ceanothus, or more active summer growers/bloomers?  Truly summer dormant plants may want some water at first, but you sure don't want to give them too much or they will end up with root rot.  Also, I would discourage you from pruning too much off the tip foliage at transplant, as studies show that doing this halts the production of roots until new active tips are established.  It's a hormone balance issue.  Bas! ically, if the plant's root system has been able to support its current shoots in the pot, it will be able to do so in the ground if given adequate water.  If you aren't sure which plants will make it, perhaps you could post those for the concensus of opinions.

 

Good luck,

Karrie Reid

Folsom Foothill Gardener