Is it too late to plant fruit trees in Michigan (zone 5b) in mid July?

Is it to late for me to plant fruit trees? I’m in Michigan zone 5b.

I have had success planting fruit trees this late.  I planted four later than this last year and all are doing well.  The secret to planting them this time of year is lots and lots of water.

Maybe too early could be another way to look at it? I prefer to plant trees in the fall if I can. In the early spring, when fruit trees are coming out of dormancy and sap starts to flow, the hormones in the tree that trigger bud swell getting ready for springtime also trigger a flush of feeder root growth. That's why I like to try and have them already planted for that springtime root growth which in turn helps the tree access more water in the soil to help get through that first summer.

Personally, I wouldn't bother since we are entering the hot/dry part of the year and I'm lazy. But, as Trace mentioned, if you can baby these trees with lots of water for the next few months, then sure, go ahead and plant now.

Ok thanks all! I will plan on getting most trees in fall and spring unless I see a good deal on some to plant now. Where do you all get your trees ? Locally or do you order online ?

Matt Dale wrote:Where do you all get your trees ?

Why we get them at these fine retailers The official permies.com seed and plant source review grid
 

Sometimes you can buy a decent tree very cheap this late. Lots of water is needed, but shade helps too. I use a plastic lawn chair or two five gallon buckets. Anything that will shade them most of the day.

Stark Bros has sales going on right now on a lot of their trees.  I'm sure other nurseries do as well.

I forgot how to add reviews to the seed and nursery list?

Ken W Wilson wrote:I forgot how to add reviews to the seed and nursery list?

It depends if you want to review a company that is already on the grid or a new one.

If it's for one already on the grid, click on the company's link in the grid and then add a review to that thread.  Be sure to start your post with "I give this nursery X out of 10 acorns".

If it's for a company that isn't on the grid, follow the instructions in the Staff Note at the bottom of the grid.  That's a bit more involved but it's worth it