Discovering the Best Flowers to Plant in Summer

Best Flowers for Summer Planting

When it comes to planting flowers in the summer, it's important to choose varieties that can thrive in the heat and withstand the sometimes challenging conditions. Two categories of flowers that are ideal for summer planting are drought-tolerant annuals and long-blooming perennials.

Drought-Tolerant Annuals

Drought-tolerant annuals are an excellent choice for summer planting, as they can withstand periods of dryness and require less water compared to other plants. These resilient flowers can add vibrant colors to your garden while conserving water. Here are some popular options for drought-tolerant annuals:

Flower	Description
African Daisies	Gazania rigens, known for their bright and colorful blooms, are drought-tolerant annuals that can be grown as perennials in warm, frost-free regions. They bloom from spring to fall and require minimal maintenance (Lawn Love).
California Poppies	Eschscholzia californica, native to the West, are low-maintenance plants that can withstand drought conditions. These cheerful flowers bring a burst of orange and yellow hues to the garden (Lawn Love).
Common Lantana	Lantana camara is a versatile plant that can be grown as a perennial or an annual, depending on the region. It thrives in hot climates, grows rapidly, and produces vibrant clusters of flowers. Common lantana can reach up to 6 feet in height (Lawn Love).
Creeping Zinnias	Sanvitalia procumbens, also known as creeping zinnias, are ideal for hot and sunny areas. These low-growing annuals resist erosion and are perfect for rocky slopes or sandy embankments (Lawn Love).
Moss Rose	Portulaca grandiflora, a semi-succulent ground cover, thrives in hot and dry conditions. With its vibrant, rose-like flowers, moss rose adds a pop of color to your garden and requires minimal maintenance (Lawn Love).

Long-Blooming Perennials

Long-blooming perennials are a great investment for your garden, as they provide blooms from spring through summer to fall, eliminating the need for replanting each year. These hardy plants can add beauty and color to your outdoor space for an extended period. Here are some popular long-blooming perennials:

Flower	Description
Garden Phlox	Phlox paniculata is a garden staple that can bloom from midsummer well into the fall. With a variety of colors available, garden phlox adds a delightful fragrance and attracts pollinators to your garden. Opt for newer mildew-resistant cultivars like 'David' for healthier foliage (The Spruce).
Stella de Oro Daylily	Hemerocallis 'Stella de Oro' is a compact daylily known for its exceptionally long bloom period, extending from May through July. Each individual bloom lasts only one day, but the plant produces multiple blooms throughout the season (The Spruce).
Becky Shasta Daisy	Leucanthemum × superbum 'Becky' is a robust perennial that blooms from July through September. With its classic white petals and yellow centers, this daisy variety adds a touch of elegance to any garden. It can grow 3 to 4 feet in height, making it a stunning focal point (The Spruce).
Perennial Salvias	Perennial salvias, available in various species, can bloom all summer if regularly deadheaded. These low-maintenance plants offer beautiful spikes of flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, or red. The bloom period may vary depending on the species, but they generally flower for several months (The Spruce).
Begonias	Begonias are a versatile option for gardens with limited sunlight. These flowering plants come in a wide range of colors and can add a vibrant touch to shady areas. Begonias are low-maintenance, and many varieties do not require deadheading, making them an excellent choice for summer gardens (Country Living).

By choosing drought-tolerant annuals and long-blooming perennials, you can create a stunning summer garden that can withstand the heat and provide continuous blooms throughout the season. Remember to provide adequate water and care for your plants to ensure their optimal growth and longevity.

Summer Flowers for Hot Climates

When it comes to planting flowers in hot climates, it's important to choose varieties that can withstand the sweltering heat and thrive in challenging conditions. Here are two categories of heat-tolerant plants and flowers that are well-suited for hot summers:

Heat-Tolerant Plants

1. Caladiums: Caladiums are heat-tolerant plants that prefer hot weather and are well-suited for climates with sweltering summer heat. These plants are available in a wide range of colors, sizes, and leaf shapes, allowing you to add a vibrant touch to your garden. They can grow well in both the North and South regions of the US. Caladiums are an excellent choice if you're looking for colorful foliage that can withstand high temperatures.

2. Sunstar Pentas: Sunstar Pentas are medium-sized plants that bloom well through high heat and humidity. They are ideal for bedding and container plants in hot climates. The brightly colored flowers of Sunstar Pentas attract butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds, adding a delightful touch to your garden. They are available in four colors: red, rose, pink, and lavender, allowing you to create a stunning display.

3. Whirlwind Fan Flower: The Whirlwind Fan Flower is a tough Australian native plant that loves heat, low humidity, and moderate drought. This plant doesn't require much plant food to thrive and is an excellent choice for those looking for low-maintenance options. The Whirlwind Fan Flower also attracts bees, making it an excellent addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.

4. Diamond Snow Euphorbia: The Diamond Snow Euphorbia is a tough and reliable plant that provides a mass of bright white blooms throughout the season. It can withstand heat, humidity, and drought with ease, making it a suitable choice for hot climates. This plant is recommended for patio planters, garden beds, and combination recipes, allowing you to incorporate it into various garden designs.

5. Suncredible Yellow Helianthus: The Suncredible Yellow Helianthus is an everblooming sunflower with a tall, well-branched, bush-like form. It does not need to be deadheaded to continue blooming from spring to frost. This plant is great for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, bringing life and movement to your garden.

Flowers Thriving in Hot Summers

1. Lantanas: Lantanas are popular summer flowers for those in hot climates due to their ability to withstand hot temperatures. These flowers come in a wide variety of shades and colors, adding a vibrant touch to any garden. Lantanas do best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day and are a great choice for gardens in hot climates.

2. Hibiscus: Hibiscus plants, known as the official flower of Hawaii, thrive in hot summers and can withstand humid conditions. These stunning flowers do best in temperatures ranging from 60-90°F and require 6 hours of full sun per day. Hibiscus plants are available in various colors, allowing you to create a tropical oasis in your garden.

3. Bottlebrush: Bottlebrush flowers, with their bristly red petals, are drought-resistant and thrive in desert environments. These unique flowers require minimal care and do best in temperatures between 50-90°F. They prefer full sun and can add a touch of exotic charm to your garden.

4. Princess Flower: Princess flowers are bright purple exotic shrubs that are perfect for hot climates. These stunning flowers do not do well in cold weather or frost, so they are best suited for regions with consistently warm temperatures. Princess flowers thrive in temperatures ranging from 65-75°F and need at least 5 hours of full sun per day.

5. Cosmos: Cosmos flowers, similar to daisies, are easy to grow and add a burst of color to any garden. These flowers do best in temperatures ranging from 60-70°F and require full sun. Cosmos flowers are a great option for those looking for low-maintenance and heat-tolerant blooms.

By selecting heat-tolerant plants and flowers, you can ensure a beautiful and thriving garden, even in the hottest summer months. Remember to provide adequate water and care for your plants during extreme heatwaves to help them withstand the challenging conditions.

Attracting Pollinators in Summer

When it comes to creating a vibrant and lively summer garden, attracting pollinators is key. Pollinators like butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds play a crucial role in the pollination process, aiding in the reproduction of flowers and the growth of fruits and vegetables. Here are some beautiful flowers that can help attract these pollinators to your garden.

Plants for Butterflies

Butterflies are attracted to flowers that provide nectar and serve as host plants for their caterpillars. Some popular flowers that attract butterflies include:

• Milkweed: Many species of butterflies lay their eggs on milkweed plants, making it an essential host plant. It also provides abundant nectar for adult butterflies.

• Chokecherry: Butterflies are particularly drawn to chokecherry leaves as a host plant.

Butterflies tend to prefer flowers in shades of red and purple with faint scents. To create a butterfly-friendly garden, consider planting flowers like asters, coneflowers, and phlox. For more information on creating a butterfly haven, visit our article on annual summer flowers.

Plants for Bees

Bees are vital pollinators, and creating a bee-friendly garden can help support their populations. Bees are attracted to flowers that are bright white, yellow, or blue, or have contrasting colors. They also prefer mild and pleasant scents. Some flowers that attract bees include:

• Lavender: Bees are particularly drawn to the vibrant purple flowers and the sweet fragrance of lavender.

• Sunflowers: The bright yellow petals of sunflowers make them highly attractive to bees.

• Bee balm: As the name suggests, bee balm is a favorite among bees due to its vibrant blossoms and nectar-rich flowers.

To create a buzzing bee-friendly garden, consider planting a variety of flowers that bloom throughout the summer. For more ideas on bee-friendly flowers, refer to our article on summer flowers for the garden.

Plants for Hummingbirds

Hummingbirds are known for their ability to hover in mid-air and their swift movements. These tiny birds are attracted to flowers with trumpet-like shapes and colors like orange, red, pink, and white. Some flowers that attract hummingbirds include:

• Salvia: Hummingbirds are particularly fond of the tubular flowers of different salvia varieties.

• Penstemon: The bright red and tubular flowers of penstemon are irresistible to hummingbirds.

• Bee balm: In addition to attracting bees, bee balm also entices hummingbirds with its vibrant blossoms.

To invite hummingbirds to your garden, plant a mix of flowers that have a long blooming period and provide ample nectar. For more information on creating a hummingbird-friendly garden, refer to our article on colorful summer flowers.

By incorporating these pollinator-friendly flowers into your summer garden, you can create a haven for butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. Remember to choose a variety of flowers that bloom throughout the season to ensure a continuous supply of nectar. Enjoy the beauty and activity that these pollinators bring to your garden while contributing to the health of our ecosystem.

Gardening Tips for Summer Flowers

When it comes to caring for your summer flowers, proper watering and protection are key to ensuring their health and vitality. In this section, I will share some effective strategies for watering your flowers and safeguarding them during heatwaves.

Watering Strategies

During the summer months, the hot and dry weather can quickly deplete moisture from the soil, making it essential to implement effective watering strategies. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Deep Watering: It is crucial to provide deep watering to encourage the roots of your flowers to grow deeper into the soil. This helps them access water from lower levels, making them more resilient to drought conditions. Water your plants at the base, allowing the water to penetrate the root zone.

2. Frequency: Rather than watering your flowers lightly every day, it is generally better to water them deeply but less frequently. This allows the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, which promotes stronger root development. Aim to water your flowers thoroughly once or twice a week, depending on the specific needs of your plants.

3. Morning Watering: Watering your flowers early in the morning is ideal as it allows the plants to absorb the moisture before the heat of the day sets in. This timing also reduces the risk of fungal diseases, as the foliage has a chance to dry out during the day.

4. Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch around your flowers can help retain moisture in the soil. Mulch acts as a protective barrier, reducing evaporation and keeping the soil temperature cooler. Organic mulches, such as dried grass or shredded wood, can also improve the soil's fertility over time.

5. Rainwater Collection: Consider collecting rainwater using rain barrels or cisterns. This provides a sustainable water source for your plants and reduces reliance on municipal water supplies. Rainwater is free from chemicals found in tap water, making it beneficial for the overall health of your flowers.

For more information on gardening in a heatwave and efficient irrigation methods, you can refer to our article on gardening in a heatwave.

Protecting Plants in a Heatwave

Extreme heat can pose a challenge to your summer flowers, but with proper protection, you can help them thrive. Here are some strategies to safeguard your plants during a heatwave:

1. Shade Cloth or Umbrellas: Providing temporary shade for your flowers can shield them from direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day. You can use shade cloth or umbrellas to create shade over vulnerable plants.

2. Mulch: As mentioned earlier, a layer of mulch around your plants can help regulate soil temperature and reduce water evaporation. This protective layer acts as insulation, keeping the roots cooler during scorching temperatures.

3. Avoid Fertilizing: During a heatwave, it's best to avoid fertilizing your flowers. Fertilizers can stimulate growth, which requires additional energy from the plant. Instead, focus on maintaining the health of your flowers and providing adequate water.

4. Avoid Pruning: Pruning during a heatwave can stress your plants further. The removal of foliage can expose the plant to more sunlight and increase water loss through transpiration. It's advisable to postpone major pruning until the weather cools down.

5. Windbreaks: If your area experiences strong winds during a heatwave, consider creating windbreaks to protect your flowers. This can be achieved by using fences, trellises, or strategically planting taller plants around the more delicate ones.

By employing these watering strategies and protective measures, you can help your summer flowers endure the challenges of hot weather and ensure they continue to bloom beautifully throughout the season. Remember to adapt your watering routine based on the specific needs of your plants and the local weather conditions. Happy gardening!

Choosing the Right Plants

When it comes to planting flowers in summer, it's important to choose the right plants that will thrive in the warm weather and provide beautiful blooms. Two key considerations when selecting plants are whether they are native or non-native and following best practices for planting in summer.

Native vs. Non-Native Plants

Native plants refer to those that naturally occur in a particular region. These plants have adapted to the local climate, soil conditions, and wildlife, making them well-suited for the environment. On the other hand, non-native plants are species that originate from other regions and may not be ideally suited to the local conditions.

One advantage of planting native plants is their ability to support local ecosystems. Native plants provide food and shelter for native wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and bees. They also require less water and maintenance compared to non-native plants. By incorporating native plants into your garden, you can create a balanced and sustainable environment that benefits both the ecosystem and your garden.

However, non-native plants can also add beauty and diversity to your garden. They often offer unique colors, shapes, and fragrances that can enhance the overall aesthetic. When selecting non-native plants, it's important to consider their adaptability to the local climate and soil conditions. Some non-native plants may require more care and resources to thrive, so be sure to choose ones that are compatible with your gardening capabilities and environmental goals.

Best Practices for Planting in Summer

Planting in summer requires special attention to ensure the success of your garden. Here are some best practices to keep in mind:

1. Choose heat-tolerant plants: Select flowers that are known for their ability to withstand high temperatures and thrive in summer conditions. Look for annual summer flowers and perennial summer flowers that are adapted to warm climates and can handle the sun's intensity.

2. Provide proper watering: Water your plants deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root growth. This helps plants become more resilient to drought conditions. Consider using a drip irrigation system or watering in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation and allow water to penetrate the soil effectively.

3. Mulch and conserve moisture: Apply a layer of organic mulch around your plants to help conserve soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. Mulching also adds nutrients to the soil as it breaks down over time. Choose an appropriate mulch for your plants and climate to maximize its benefits.

4. Protect from extreme heat: During heatwaves, provide shade or use shade cloth to protect your plants from excessive heat. Move potted plants to a shaded area, and consider using lightweight covers to shield them from the intense midday sun. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot and other issues. Find more tips on protecting plants during a heatwave here.

By considering the suitability of native and non-native plants and following best practices for planting in summer, you can create a vibrant and thriving garden that brings joy throughout the season. Whether you choose colorful annuals or long-lasting perennials, your summer oasis will be a haven for both you and the natural world.