What are the Best Trees to Plant in Summer in Melbourne?

When Melbourne’s summer sun starts shining and the backyard becomes a hub for family gatherings, barbecues, and evening relaxation, many homeowners begin to think about planting trees. Trees provide shade, privacy, and natural beauty, but choosing the right species and planting them at the right time is vital for long-term success.

At True Blue Tree Management (True Blue Trees), we often get asked whether summer is a good time to plant trees and which species thrive in our unique Melbourne climate. While spring and autumn are traditionally the best planting seasons, summer planting is possible if you select hardy, drought-tolerant trees and give them proper care during establishment.

In this blog, we will explore:

• The best tree species to plant in summer in Melbourne.
• Tips for ensuring healthy establishment during hot weather.
• Benefits of planting trees in your garden.
• Why professional arborist advice makes a difference.
• The role of blogging in helping homeowners like you make informed tree care decisions.

Whether you are looking to add privacy, shade, or simply enhance your landscape, this guide will help you choose the right trees and set them up for success.

Why Plant Trees in Summer?

Although summer is warmer and drier than autumn or spring, there are some advantages to summer planting if done correctly:

1. Instant Impact: Planting in summer gives your garden an immediate transformation. Your outdoor space is ready to enjoy during the busiest entertaining season.
2. Shade Creation: Fast-growing trees provide relief from the harsh summer sun, making gardens more comfortable.
3. Extended Growing Season: With correct watering and mulch, summer plantings can establish roots and be ready for strong growth in autumn.

That said, summer planting requires extra care. Newly planted trees must be protected from heat stress with good watering practices, quality soil preparation, and the right tree choice.

Best Trees to Plant in Summer in Melbourne

Melbourne’s climate presents unique challenges – hot summers, occasional heatwaves, and unpredictable rain. The following tree species are excellent choices for summer planting if provided with attentive care:

1. Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)

• Stunning summer flowers in shades of pink, purple, white, or red.
• Thrives in hot, dry conditions once established.
• Low maintenance and resistant to most pests and diseases.
• Ideal for small gardens or as feature trees along driveways.

2. Manchurian Pear (Pyrus ussuriensis)

• A popular choice for Melbourne homeowners.
• Provides excellent summer shade with dense foliage.
• Gorgeous autumn colour display.
• Perfect for planting along property boundaries for privacy.

3. Lilly Pilly (Syzygium smithii and cultivars)

• Excellent as a screening or hedge tree.
• Fast-growing, evergreen, and tolerant of pruning.
• Produces colourful berries that attract native birds.

4. Eucalyptus leucoxylon (Yellow Gum)

• A hardy native tree that thrives in Melbourne conditions.
• Provides food and habitat for native birds and pollinators.
• Beautiful cream, pink, or red flowers.

5. Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum) – For Shaded Areas

• Works best in partially shaded gardens.
• Adds elegance and striking colour contrast.
• Ideal for courtyards or sheltered backyards.

6. Coastal Banksia (Banksia integrifolia)

• Perfect for coastal suburbs such as St Andrews Beach or Mornington Peninsula.
• Tolerates sandy soils and strong winds.
• Produces stunning cone-shaped flowers, loved by birds.

7. Jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia)

• Iconic purple blooms in late spring and summer.
• Provides broad shade canopy.
• Adds striking seasonal interest to gardens.

8. Ornamental Gums (such as Corymbia ‘Summer Beauty’)

• Compact size with spectacular flowers in summer.
• Attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
• Great for suburban backyards where space is limited.

Tree Planting Tips for Melbourne Summers

To ensure your trees thrive when planted in summer, follow these professional tips:

• Prepare the soil: Loosen compacted soil, add organic matter, and improve drainage.
• Choose the right spot: Consider sun exposure, wind, soil type, and space for future growth.
• Mulch generously: Apply organic mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
• Water deeply and regularly: Newly planted trees need consistent water, especially during the first 6–8 weeks.
• Stake if necessary: Provide support for young trees in windy areas.
• Avoid fertilising immediately: Allow roots to establish before adding fertiliser.

If you are unsure about soil preparation, tree choice, or long-term care, our team at True Blue Trees can help.

Benefits of Planting Trees in Your Garden

Planting trees is not just about aesthetics. They deliver a wide range of long-term benefits for homeowners:

1. Natural Cooling and Energy Savings: Well-placed shade trees can reduce cooling costs by blocking direct sun from windows and roofs. In fact, a thoughtfully planted tree can make outdoor living spaces much more comfortable in the height of summer.
2. Privacy and Screening: Fast-growing species such as Lilly Pilly or Manchurian Pear provide natural barriers from neighbours. They create a sense of seclusion without the need for high fences and add greenery to suburban blocks.
3. Wildlife Habitat: Native trees attract birds, bees, and pollinators, supporting biodiversity. A garden filled with trees not only looks vibrant but also becomes a haven for wildlife, bringing life and movement to your backyard.
4. Increased Property Value: A landscaped garden with healthy trees improves kerb appeal and resale value. Buyers are more likely to be drawn to homes with established trees, especially those providing shade and beauty.
5. Health and Wellbeing: Spending time under trees improves mood, reduces stress, and promotes outdoor living. Trees encourage families to spend more time outside, enjoying barbecues, play areas, or simply relaxing in the shade.
6. Environmental Benefits: Trees also filter the air, reduce noise pollution, and help manage stormwater by absorbing excess rainfall. For environmentally conscious homeowners, planting trees is an investment in a greener future.

Why Professional Arborist Advice Matters

While many homeowners love the idea of planting trees themselves, professional arborists ensure:

• The right species is chosen for your property and soil conditions.
• Trees are planted correctly to maximise root development.
• Long-term growth does not interfere with buildings, fences, or powerlines.
• Ongoing maintenance advice is available, including pruning and health assessments.

At True Blue Trees, we offer a full range of services including planting, pruning, tree removal, and arborist reports. We also provide tailored recommendations for Melbourne conditions.

Learn more: Check out our previous blog: Why should you hire an arborist in Melbourne.

The Benefits of Blogging for Homeowners and Tree Care

You might wonder why a tree care company like True Blue Trees invests time in writing blogs. The truth is, blogging offers incredible benefits for both homeowners and businesses:

1. Education: Blogs help homeowners make informed decisions about tree care, planting, and maintenance.
2. Inspiration: Reading about tree choices and landscaping ideas sparks creativity in garden design.
3. Trust Building: Sharing knowledge shows our expertise as qualified arborists.
4. Ongoing Support: Our blogs remain online as a permanent resource for Melbourne homeowners.

For our business, blogging also helps us connect with you. By answering common questions and showcasing our services, we make it easier for you to choose the right tree care partner.

Explore more: How to become an Arborist in Melbourne

Call to Action – Let True Blue Trees Help You This Summer

Planting trees in summer can completely transform your Melbourne garden, but success depends on the right preparation, species selection, and aftercare. Whether you are looking for instant shade, more privacy, or simply want to enjoy the beauty of flowering trees, our team is here to help.

Call True Blue Trees today on 0447 035 214 or Email us at info@truebluetrees.com.au to book your free quote.

Our expert arborists can guide you through tree selection, planting, and ongoing care to ensure your investment grows strong and healthy.