Discover the Best Plants for a Vibrant Summer Landscape

Summer is the perfect season to spend most of your time outdoors. It’s an opportunity to enjoy beach trips and endless picnics. But did you know you can also invest your summer in nurturing plants that will beautify your outdoor space? 

Summer-friendly plants grow quickly and yield generously, especially with proper care. Furthermore, these plants don’t demand much of your attention, leaving you free to engage in other summer activities. If this sounds appealing, here’s a list of plants that thrive in the summer.

Tomatoes

There’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh tomatoes, especially when they’re harvested from your garden. Tomatoes are among the crops that perform best in summer, yielding more fruit during this season than any other. What’s more, they don’t require much care. All they need is protection from diseases and pests and fertile soil.

Tomatoes can be planted in your garden or in containers. If you want your tomato plants to double as vegetables and flowers, this awesome guide to growing your own tomatoes will teach you how to achieve that in planters. Remember, tomatoes need trellising or staking for fruit support.

Marigolds

Marigolds are a classic choice for summer gardens. These vibrant, low-maintenance flowers come in shades of yellow, orange, and red, adding a splash of color to your outdoor space. 

Marigolds are also known for their ability to repel pests, making them excellent companion plants for vegetables. Plant them in full sun and well-draining soil, and they will reward you with continuous blooms throughout the season.

Basil

Basil is an aromatic herb that loves the summer heat. This versatile plant can be used to flavor dishes, make pesto, or even as a natural mosquito repellent. Plant basil in a sunny spot with well-draining soil, and be sure to water it consistently. As the plant grows, pinch off the tips to encourage bushy growth and prevent it from going to seed.

Sunflowers

Sunflowers are the quintessential summer plant, with their cheerful yellow petals and towering height. These annuals are not only stunning to look at but also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Sunflowers require full sun and well-draining soil, and their strong roots make them drought-tolerant. Plant seeds directly in the ground after the last frost, and watch your sunflowers reach for the sky.

Berries

When curating plants for your summer garden, don’t forget to include berries. Not only are berries delicious and nutritious, but they also add a splash of color to your space, serving as both fruit and decorative plants. Opt for varieties that fruit at different times to ensure a continuous harvest throughout the summer.

Berries come in a range of sizes. If space is a concern, consider dwarf berry varieties that can be grown in containers. If you choose blueberries, you’ll need at least two types of plants for cross-pollination. Other berries are self-pollinating and can be grown individually. 

Research each berry type’s needs before planting to prevent disappointment. Provide ample sunlight, water regularly, and cover them with a net when they ripen.

Zinnias

Zinnias are a popular choice for summer gardens due to their wide range of colors and low maintenance requirements. These annual flowers attract pollinators and make excellent cut flowers for bouquets. Plant zinnias in full sun and well-draining soil, and deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season.

Beans

Beans, both bush and pole varieties, are a nutritious and easy-to-grow addition to your summer garden. They are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. 

Plant bean seeds in full sun and well-draining soil, and provide support for pole varieties, such as a trellis or stakes. Beans have a relatively short growing season, allowing you to enjoy multiple harvests throughout the summer.

Petunias

Petunias are a versatile and colorful choice for summer gardens. These annual flowers can be grown in garden beds, containers, or hanging baskets, making them suitable for any outdoor space. 

Petunias come in a wide range of colors, from pastels to vibrant hues, and their trumpet-shaped flowers attract pollinators. Plant petunias in full sun and well-draining soil, and keep them consistently watered. Regularly remove spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season.

Lavender

With its calming scent and delicate purple flowers, lavender is a popular choice for summer gardens. This perennial plant is drought-tolerant and requires little maintenance once established. Plant lavender in full sun and well-draining soil, and enjoy its fragrance and beauty throughout the summer months.

Conclusion

Summer is the perfect time to create a vibrant and thriving garden. With a diverse selection of flowers, fruits, vegetables, and herbs to choose from, you can design a garden that suits your tastes and needs. By incorporating some of these best plants for summer, you can enjoy a colorful, fragrant, and productive outdoor space all season long.