8 flowers to plant in august for vibrant spring and summer blooms

As summer begins to wind down, August presents the perfect opportunity to plan ahead for next year’s garden. By planting certain flower seeds now, you can ensure a vibrant display of spring and summer blooms in the coming year. This article will explore eight beautiful flowers that thrive when planted in August, offering tips on cultivation and care to help your garden flourish.

Colorful annuals for spring splendor

Two popular choices for early spring color are pansies and snapdragons. Pansies (Viola x wittrockiana) are cheerful, low-growing flowers that can brighten up any garden space. They’re particularly well-suited for containers and hanging baskets, making them ideal for patios and small spaces. To ensure success :

• Sow pansy seeds in trays in August
• Protect seedlings from harsh weather
• Transplant to well-draining soil in early spring
• Water consistently during dry periods
• Deadhead regularly for continuous blooms

Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus) offer elegant spikes of flowers in a rainbow of colors. These versatile plants can be grown as annuals in most regions or as short-lived perennials in USDA zones 6-11. For best results :

• Plant in full sun and well-draining soil
• Pinch out top stems to encourage bushy growth
• Water regularly, especially during dry spells
• Consider growing as a cut flower for indoor arrangements

Both pansies and snapdragons are excellent choices for adding a pop of color to your spring garden when planted in August.

Perennial powerhouses for long-lasting beauty

For gardeners seeking plants that return year after year, coneflowers and delphiniums are outstanding options. Coneflowers (Echinacea purpurea) are beloved by pollinators and add architectural interest to any garden. Native to North America, these hardy plants are drought-tolerant and deer-resistant. To cultivate healthy coneflowers :

• Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil
• Consider stratifying seeds for better germination
• Plant in late summer for blooms the following year
• Prune back by one-third in late summer to encourage reblooming

Delphiniums (Delphinium spp.) are striking tall flowers that bring a touch of drama to the garden. Known for their rare true blue hues, they’re available in a range of colors. To successfully grow delphiniums :

• Select a spot with full sun and afternoon shade in hot climates
• Enrich soil with compost before planting
• Water consistently but avoid overwatering
• Fertilize regularly during the growing season
• Provide support for tall varieties to prevent wind damage

Both coneflowers and delphiniums offer long-lasting beauty and can be grown in a wide range of USDA hardiness zones, making them versatile choices for many gardeners.

Cottage garden classics and pollinator favorites

Hollyhocks and lupines are quintessential cottage garden flowers that can add charm and vertical interest to any landscape. Hollyhocks (Alcea rosea) are tall, dramatic plants that flower all summer long, attracting bees and butterflies. To grow these stately beauties :

• Sow seeds in late summer or early fall
• Overwinter seedlings in a greenhouse or cold frame
• Transplant to a sunny spot with rich, fertile soil in spring
• Fertilize every 6-8 weeks after planting
• Water regularly during dry periods

Lupines (Lupinus spp.) are another cottage garden favorite, offering spikes of colorful flowers that serve as host plants for endangered butterfly species. To cultivate lupines successfully :

• Soak seeds overnight before planting to aid germination
• Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil
• Avoid amending soil before planting, as lupines prefer average conditions
• Fertilize in spring to encourage blooming
• Deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering period

Both hollyhocks and lupines can be grown in a range of USDA zones, making them adaptable choices for many gardens across the United States.

Edible and medicinal flowers for multi-purpose gardens

For gardeners interested in plants with multiple uses, calendula and poppies are excellent choices. Calendula (Calendula officinalis), also known as pot marigolds, are easy-to-grow flowers with edible petals and medicinal properties. To cultivate calendula :

• Sow seeds directly in late August or early fall
• Choose a spot with full sun to light shade
• Plant in poor to average soil for best results
• Water occasionally and deadhead to promote continuous blooming
• Consider using as a companion plant in vegetable gardens

Poppies (Papaver spp.) are not only beautiful but also have a long history of culinary and medicinal use. With various species available, there’s a poppy suitable for most gardens. To grow poppies successfully :

• Select a sunny location with well-draining soil
• Sow seeds directly where you want them to flower
• Avoid transplanting, as poppies dislike root disturbance
• Provide minimal care for annual varieties
• Offer consistent watering and possible staking for perennial types

Both calendula and poppies can add beauty and functionality to your garden, offering opportunities for culinary experimentation and traditional remedies.

By planting these eight flowers in August, you can lay the groundwork for a stunning display of spring and summer blooms in the following year. Whether you’re looking for cottage garden charm, pollinator-friendly options, or plants with edible and medicinal properties, there’s a flower on this list to suit your needs. Remember to consider your specific USDA hardiness zone and local climate conditions when selecting plants for your garden. With proper care and attention, these August-planted flowers will reward you with a vibrant and colorful garden come spring and summer.

Planting flower seeds in August can ensure a vibrant spring and summer garden. Here’s what you need to know :

• Colorful annuals : Pansies and snapdragons offer early spring blooms
• Perennial powerhouses : Coneflowers and delphiniums provide long-lasting beauty
• Cottage garden classics : Hollyhocks and lupines add charm and attract pollinators
• Edible and medicinal : Calendula and poppies serve multiple purposes in the garden

Allan

Meet Allan, Gardening Enthusiast

Allan is a nature lover and gardening enthusiast. Over the years, he has honed his skills to create beautiful and calming green spaces. On his blog, Allan shares practical tips, DIY project ideas, and plant care advice. He invites you to explore his world and find inspiration to transform your garden into a peaceful, nature-friendly oasis.

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