We’re still knee-deep in the middle of the summer season, and it seems literally impossible to think that cooler days are approaching...even if that is a slow approach. The heat is a pain, however escaping the heat and humidity is actually pretty easy. Just run into your house, store, work, or any place that is pumping AC.
But what if you’re outside? This is why great shade trees can make a massive difference. Our customers are always asking us what the most popular trees to plant during the summer to escape the heat and our nursery pros always recommend these trees below. Not only are they great at providing shade, but some provide fantastic blooms during the summer with amazing fall colors.
For adding stunning, vibrant colors to your landscape, Crape Myrtles are one of the absolute best choices to grow in this area. With blooms that can last from late spring, through the entire summer and with a wide variety of colors available, Crape Myrtles have been a long time favorite in many landscape styles. Crape Myrtles, also known as Southern Lilacs, are considered to be one of the most beautiful trees in the West and for many good reasons. They constantly bloom throughout the summer months and have changed a bright, showy orange in the fall.
The Ficus nitida are among the most beautiful and versatile trees for any landscape. Don’t let the amazingly green appearance fool you as they are one of the most durable trees around. Lush, dense foliage provides dense canopies of shade from strong softwood branches. Many of our customers plant these along property lines as barriers for blocking sun, noise, wind, and views; as well as letting the exceptional beauty stand out on any property. The foliage of the Ficus are very hardy and can be trimmed into topiary like shapes while handling the summer heat. The foliage is thick and it can provide some excellent privacy.
The ultimate summer tree, the Tipu can literally handle and thrive in almost any climate (maybe except for Antartica!) These trees are incredibly tough, they grow very quickly providing a massive shade canopy, and bloom beautiful golf ball sized flowers in the summer. Its unique umbrella canopy provides immense amounts of shade that will allow you and your family to enjoy your back yard on most summer days. It has a gorgeous Apricot colored bloom throughout spring and summer and provides an incredibly unique leaf structure.
If you're looking for the "WOW" factor look no further than the Museum Palo Verde. It’s spreading, open canopy of shade is supported by blue-green, sculpture like trunks that provide a stark contrast to just about any landscape. In the spring, breathtaking yellow flowers emerge and cover the entire tree. The Museum Palo Verde’s layered shade makes the tree look light in your yard while providing very cooling shade for your home.
One of the most stunning trees on display, the Live Oak is a great choice for area plating because of its adaptability, performance in the hot summer months and its ability to grow in tough soil conditions. Its name is derived from its ability to “live” throughout the winter when other oaks are dormant or leafless. It has a wide canopy of dark green leaves and when planted in rows it can give your landscape a privacy wall or shade barrier that provides immense protection and beauty.