Summer will be here before you know it (you may be feeling it already) and this means long, hot days and bright, cheery flower gardens. We talked about which bulbs are best to plant in the spring but if you waited too long, no need to worry, there are still flowers you can plant that will withstand the heat and thrive during this time of year. Read on for our list of the best flowers to plant during the summer and get that colorful garden you’ve always dreamed of.
It’s hard to find a flower that’s more cheerful than the classic Marigold. Available in bright, warm yellows and oranges, Marigolds are a must for your summer garden. These flowers require lots of sunshine and very little maintenance.
Best for Plant Hardiness Zone: 2-11
Type: Annual
The black-eyed Susan may be one of the most popular wildflowers around and remains a welcoming sight to any garden. These tough, golden flowers thrive in the sunshine and get along with just about any other flower out there. They also make great cut flowers and will liven up any bouquet.
Best for Plant Hardiness Zone: 2-9
Type: Annual/Perennial
You’re most likely to see this garden favorite in a rich purple or lavender, but don’t be too surprised to see pink and white flowers as well. This dainty flower can withstand the heat, and adds a soft touch to any garden. Expect to enjoy these flowers from spring through fall.
Best for Plant Hardiness Zone: 3-9
Type: Perennial
These low-maintenance flowers come in a wide array of colors, including red, yellow, orange, pink, and purple. They’ll bloom all season long and are extremely drought tolerant, making them the ideal summer flower to really make your garden pop.
Best for Plant Hardiness Zone: 2-11
Type: Annual/Perennial
These cheerful, long-blooming flowers consist of red petals tipped with yellow which makes it easy to see how they got their name. Add them to your garden and you’ll have a great option for both summer themed containers and bouquets.
Best for Plant Hardiness Zone: 3-11
Type: Perennial
This spreading flower comes in several colors and is ideal for spaces where you want to create a cascading appearance. Plant them in flower boxes, pots, and on retaining walls to get countless clusters of these beauties all season long.
Best for Plant Hardiness Zone: 7-9
Type: Annual/Perennial
Zinnias are a cheap way to add some stunning color to your garden in just a few weeks. They attract butterflies, so expect to see some new friends in your garden. Like most summer flowers, these do best in full sunshine.
Best for Plant Hardiness Zone: 2-11
Type: Annual
The hibiscus is a classic flower that can grow surprisingly large. They bring a tropical look to your yard even if you don’t necessarily live in a tropical climate. This plant will require space and plenty of water in order to thrive.
Best for Plant Hardiness Zone: 6-11
Type: Perennial
This summer favorite will provide pom-pom like flowers in purple, red, and white all the way into late fall. This plant is not fussy and will do well in a variety of soils and moisture levels, so plant away and let it work it’s magic.
Best for Plant Hardiness Zone: 2-11
Type: Annual
This attractive flower grows incredibly fast and will attract birds and butterflies to your garden. The coneflower also spreads easily so you'll want to give it some space to grow. Once you do, you won’t regret it.
Best for Plant Hardiness Zone: 3-9
Type: Perennial
We hope this list provides you with some inspiration to add some liveliness to your summer garden this year. Happy gardening!
Note: You can view the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map here.
