Summer is a season of vibrancy, energy and life. It’s a time when the earth, under the scorching sun, bursts into a riot of colors. Yet, the extreme heat can be harsh on your garden, causing many plants to wilt or even die. But don’t let this discourage you. There are plenty of flowers that not only survive but thrive in sizzling summer temperatures. Here’s a list of 13 robust and radiant flowers perfect for your summer garden.
1. Zinnias
These hardy flowers love the heat and are extremely easy to grow. They come in a wide range of bright colors, adding a vibrant touch to your summer garden. Zinnias are a favorite among gardeners, not just for their beauty, but also because they are a magnet for butterflies. These beautiful insects will further add to the allure of your garden.
Zinnias can be directly sown into the garden or started indoors. They bloom from summer till the first frost, giving you a long period of vibrant colors. They require full sunlight and well-drained soil. Regular deadheading will ensure continuous blooming. Be careful about watering, as they are prone to powdery mildew.
2. Marigolds
Known for their sunny colors and strong fragrance, Marigolds are a great option for summer gardens. They are heat-tolerant, drought-resistant, and can even withstand poor soil conditions. Moreover, their scent is known to repel insects, making them a practical addition to your garden.
Marigolds can be directly sown into the garden or started indoors. They require full sunlight and well-drained soil. They are a low-maintenance flower and their hardy nature makes them perfect for beginner gardeners. Water them at the base to prevent fungal diseases and deadhead regularly to promote continuous blooming.
3. Sunflowers
The ultimate summer flower, Sunflowers are known for their towering height and large, bright yellow blooms. They are extremely heat-tolerant and can even withstand drought conditions. Sunflowers also have the unique ability to follow the sun across the sky, a phenomenon known as heliotropism.
Sunflowers can be directly sown into the garden. They require full sunlight and well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. They are a favorite among birds who love their seeds, so you may want to take measures to protect the flowers if you want them to last. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
4. Lantana
This tropical flower is known for its vibrant, multi-colored blooms. Lantana is extremely heat-tolerant and can even withstand salty conditions, making it perfect for coastal gardens. It’s also a favorite among butterflies and hummingbirds.
Lantana can be grown from cuttings or bought as a plant. It requires full sunlight and well-drained soil. It’s a low-maintenance plant that doesn’t require much watering. In fact, too much water can harm it. It’s also resistant to most pests and diseases.
5. Gaillardia
Also known as blanket flower, Gaillardia is a hardy perennial that loves the summer heat. It’s known for its bright, daisy-like flowers and its ability to attract butterflies.
Gaillardia can be directly sown into the garden or started indoors. It requires full sunlight and well-drained, sandy soil. It’s a low-maintenance flower that doesn’t require much watering or fertilizing. In fact, too much water or fertilizer can harm it. Deadhead regularly to promote continuous blooming.
6. Portulaca
Also known as moss rose, Portulaca is a low-growing succulent that loves the heat. It’s known for its bright, rose-like flowers that close at night and open in the sun.
Portulaca can be directly sown into the garden or started indoors. It requires full sunlight and well-drained, sandy soil. It’s a low-maintenance flower that doesn’t require much watering or fertilizing. In fact, too much water can lead to root rot.
7. Verbena
This hardy perennial is known for its cluster of small, brightly colored flowers. Verbena is extremely heat-tolerant and drought-resistant, making it perfect for hot, dry summers.
Verbena can be directly sown into the garden or started indoors. It requires full sunlight and well-drained soil. It’s a low-maintenance flower that doesn’t require much watering. Deadhead regularly to promote continuous blooming.
8. Salvia
This hardy perennial is known for its spikes of small, brightly colored flowers. Salvia is extremely heat-tolerant and drought-resistant, making it perfect for hot, dry summers.
Salvia can be directly sown into the garden or started indoors. It requires full sunlight and well-drained soil. It’s a low-maintenance flower that doesn’t require much watering. Deadhead regularly to promote continuous blooming.
9. Coneflower
Also known as Echinacea, the Coneflower is a hardy perennial that loves the heat. It’s known for its large, daisy-like flowers and its ability to attract butterflies.
Coneflower can be directly sown into the garden or started indoors. It requires full sunlight and well-drained soil. It’s a low-maintenance flower that doesn’t require much watering or fertilizing. In fact, too much water or fertilizer can harm it. Deadhead regularly to promote continuous blooming.
10. Black-eyed Susan
This hardy perennial is known for its bright, daisy-like flowers with a dark center, hence the name. Black-eyed Susan is extremely heat-tolerant and drought-resistant, making it perfect for hot, dry summers.
Black-eyed Susan can be directly sown into the garden or started indoors. It requires full sunlight and well-drained soil. It’s a low-maintenance flower that doesn’t require much watering. Deadhead regularly to promote continuous blooming.
11. Yarrow
This hardy perennial is known for its clusters of small, brightly colored flowers. Yarrow is extremely heat-tolerant and drought-resistant, making it perfect for hot, dry summers.
Yarrow can be directly sown into the garden or started indoors. It requires full sunlight and well-drained soil. It’s a low-maintenance flower that doesn’t require much watering. Deadhead regularly to promote continuous blooming.
12. Lavender
This aromatic perennial is known for its spikes of small, purple flowers. Lavender is extremely heat-tolerant and drought-resistant, making it perfect for hot, dry summers.
Lavender can be directly sown into the garden or started indoors. It requires full sunlight and well-drained, sandy soil. It’s a low-maintenance flower that doesn’t require much watering. Prune regularly to promote bushy growth and more flowers.
13. Geranium
This hardy perennial is known for its bright, round flowers. Geranium is extremely heat-tolerant and drought-resistant, making it perfect for hot, dry summers.
Geranium can be directly sown into the garden or started indoors. It requires full sunlight and well-drained soil. It’s a low-maintenance flower that doesn’t require much watering. Deadhead regularly to promote continuous blooming.