Summer is the perfect time to start a garden, and there is nothing more satisfying than growing your own plants. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting, there are some plants that are perfect for growing during summers. In this article, we will discuss the best plants to grow in your home garden during summers, along with some tips and tricks to ensure their growth and health.
See also: Summer flowers in India: How to grow and care for them?
Top 10 plants to grow in summers
From sun-loving flowers to flavorful vegetables, check out this comprehensive list of the most suitable plants for your garden for summers.
Best summer plants #1: Sunflowers
Sunflowers are a true symbol of summer, with their bright yellow petals and towering height. They not only add a vibrant pop of colour to any garden but also attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. These easy-to-grow annuals can reach impressive heights of up to 10 feet, making them a statement piece in any garden bed. To grow healthy and robust sunflowers, plant them in a location that receives plenty of sunlight and ensure that the soil is consistently moist. Sunflowers also thrive in soil that is rich in organic matter, so consider amending your soil with compost or aged manure before planting.
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Best summer plants #2: Zinnias
Zinnias are a favourite among many gardeners for their vibrant colours and hardiness. They come in a wide range of colours, from fiery oranges and reds to soft pinks and yellows, making them a versatile addition to any garden. In addition to their beauty, zinnias are also an excellent choice for attracting pollinators like butterflies and bees to your garden. These low-maintenance annuals are easy to grow from seed and will bloom all summer long, making them a reliable source of colour throughout the season. To grow healthy zinnias, plant them in a location that receives full sun and ensure that the soil is well-draining. Zinnias do not require much fertiliser, but you can feed them with a balanced fertiliser once or twice during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and blooms.
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Best summer plants #3: Marigolds
Marigolds are an excellent addition to any garden for several reasons. Not only are they beautiful with their vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red, but they also have a distinct aroma that repels pests such as mosquitoes and aphids. These hardy annuals are easy to grow from seed and can be planted in a variety of locations, including full sun or partial shade. Marigolds prefer well-draining soil, so ensure that the soil is not too wet or heavy. Marigolds are not particularly fussy when it comes to fertiliser, but you can feed them with a balanced fertiliser once or twice during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and blooms.
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Best summer plants #4: Cosmos
Cosmos are a great choice for any gardener who wants a low-maintenance, yet stunning addition to their garden. These annuals bloom all summer long and come in a variety of shades, including pink, white and purple. They are incredibly easy to grow and can grow up to six feet tall. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun, but they can tolerate a bit of shade if needed. They are also fairly drought-tolerant, so they don’t require frequent watering. Overall, cosmos are a great choice for any gardener who wants a low-maintenance, yet show-stopping plant in their summer garden.
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Best summer plants #5: Peppers
Peppers are a great vegetable to grow in your home garden during the summer months. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small and spicy to large and sweet, and they are relatively easy to grow. Peppers prefer full sun and warm temperatures, so make sure to plant them in a spot that gets plenty of sunlight. They also require moderate watering, so keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. To encourage healthy growth and fruit production, fertilise your peppers with a balanced fertiliser once a month during the growing season. Peppers are ready to harvest when they are firm and fully coloured. Depending on the variety, this can take anywhere from 60 to 100 days.
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Best summer plants #6: Gladiolus
Gladiolus is a stunning tropical flower that can make a bold statement in your summer garden. With its tall stature and striking colours, it’s sure to catch the eye of anyone who walks by. When planting gladiolus, choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Gladiolus bulbs should be planted in the spring and will bloom in the summer months. To encourage healthy growth, make sure to water your gladiolus regularly and fertilise them every few weeks with a balanced fertiliser. One of the best things about gladiolus is that they come in a wide range of colours, including pink, red, orange, yellow and even bi-colors. You can choose a single colour or mix and match different shades to create a unique and eye-catching display. Gladiolus blooms typically last for about two weeks, so make sure to plant them in staggered intervals to ensure a continuous supply of blooms throughout the summer months.
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Best summer plants #7: Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a summer garden staple, and for a good reason. They are one of the easiest plants to grow, and they provide a bountiful harvest with minimal care. You can choose from a wide variety of tomatoes, including cherry, beefsteak and heirloom. Tomatoes require full sun and moderate watering to produce healthy fruit. It’s important to provide support for tomato plants to keep them from sprawling on the ground, which can lead to disease and pests. Staking or using a tomato cage will keep the plants upright and make harvesting easier. Additionally, it’s essential to keep an eye out for pests such as tomato hornworms and aphids, which can damage the plants.
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Best summer plants #8: Canna Lilies
Canna Lilies are an excellent choice for anyone who wants to add a touch of the tropics to their summer garden. With a wide range of colours and foliage patterns, these stunning flowers are sure to make a statement. They are relatively easy to grow and can thrive in full sun or partial shade. When planting cannas, be sure to choose a spot with well-draining soil, as these plants do not like to be waterlogged. Additionally, Cannas can grow quite tall, so be sure to give them plenty of space to reach their full potential. With the right care, your cannas will bloom all summer long, adding a touch of beauty and elegance to your outdoor space.
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Best summer plants #9: Dahlias
Dahlias are an excellent choice for your summer garden, as they can add a pop of colour and variety with their diverse range of bright and jewel-toned hues. They are also a low-maintenance option that thrives in full sun and hot climates. What’s more, dahlias come in different sizes, from small 2-inch blossoms to large 15-inch blooms, which can add dimension and texture to your garden. Dahlias are sun-loving plants that thrive in full sunlight, preferably at least six hours a day. They also need well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Make sure to water them regularly, especially during hot and dry periods, but be careful not to overwater them as this can lead to root rot. Adding mulch around the plants can help retain moisture in the soil and prevent weeds from growing.
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Best summer plants #10: Melons
Growing your own melons in the summer can be a fun and delicious experience. Cantaloupes and watermelons are two popular varieties to consider, but it’s important to ensure that the soil temperature has reached at least 60°F for cantaloupes and 70°F for watermelons before planting your seeds. This will help ensure that the seeds germinate and the plants grow properly. Melons also need plenty of sunlight and water to thrive, so make sure to plant them in an area that receives full sun and keep the soil consistently moist. Additionally, melons prefer well-draining soil, so consider adding compost or other organic matter to improve soil structure and fertility. With proper care, you can look forward to a bountiful harvest of refreshing and juicy melons all summer long.
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How to take care of plants in summer?
Taking care of plants during the summer months is crucial to ensure they thrive despite the heat. Here are some essential tips to help your plants stay healthy and vibrant during the warmer seasons:
- Watering: Increase the frequency of watering during hot weather, as plants tend to lose more water through evaporation. Water deeply and thoroughly to ensure the roots receive enough moisture. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimise water loss due to evaporation.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulches like compost, bark chips, or straw can help retain moisture and keep the soil cool.
- Shading: Provide shade for plants that are sensitive to intense sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day. Use shade cloths, umbrellas, or plant shade-loving species under taller plants or trees to shield them from direct sunlight.
- Pruning: Trim back overgrown branches and foliage to promote air circulation and reduce heat stress on plants. Remove dead or diseased branches to prevent the spread of diseases and allow new growth to flourish.
- Fertilising: Feed your plants with a balanced fertiliser to replenish nutrients lost during rapid growth in the summer months. Choose a slow-release or organic fertiliser to avoid burning delicate roots in hot weather.
- Hydration: Monitor the moisture levels of potted plants more frequently, as they can dry out faster than plants in the ground. Consider using self-watering containers or drip irrigation systems to maintain consistent moisture levels.
- Pest and disease control: Keep an eye out for common summer pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, which thrive in warm weather. Use natural pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap to deter pests without harming beneficial insects.
- Regular maintenance: Keep plants healthy by removing spent flowers, yellowing leaves, and weeds regularly. Deadheading flowers encourages new blooms, while removing weeds prevents competition for water and nutrients.
- Monitor for signs of stress: Keep an eye out for signs of heat stress, such as wilting, yellowing leaves, or leaf scorch. Adjust watering and shading as needed to help plants recover and thrive in hot weather.
Housing.com POV
As summer approaches, it’s time to prepare your garden for the warmer months ahead. With the right selection of summer plants and proper care, you can create a vibrant and colourful garden oasis to enjoy throughout the season. From sunflowers to tomatoes, there’s a wide variety of plants that thrive in the summer heat and add beauty to your outdoor space.
Remember to provide adequate watering, mulching and shading to help your plants withstand the heat and stay healthy. Regular pruning, fertilising and pest control are also essential tasks to ensure your garden remains vibrant and pest-free. By following these tips and selecting the best summer plants for your garden, you can create a beautiful and thriving outdoor haven to enjoy all summer long.
FAQs
Which plant is best for summer?
Sunflowers, zinnia, marigolds, cosmos and dahlias are some of the many amazing summer plants you can add to your garden.
What are sun loving plants called?
The plants which thrive in the presence of sunlight are known as heliophytes or sun-loving plants.
What is the best time to plant summer flowers in a home garden?
The best time to plant summer flowers in your home garden is in late spring or early summer when the soil has warmed up.
How often should I water my summer plants?
It depends on the plant and the weather conditions. Generally, you should water your plants deeply once or twice a week. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Can I grow vegetables in pots during summers?
Yes, you can grow vegetables in pots during summers. Just make sure the pots are big enough and provide adequate drainage.
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