I'm looking to brighten up my garden, which is usually bursting with color in the spring, but has now turned into just a sea of green post-flowering. While my lavender and St. John's wort are still putting on a show, I need some suggestions for perennials that will bloom from now until the end of summer. I'm particularly interested in plants that are great for attracting wildlife. Any tips or plant recommendations would be greatly appreciated! Thanks! ?
3 Answers
You might want to consider planting some sea holly, wood sunflower, and lythrum if you’re looking for some late bloomers! I know I'm in Scotland and our seasons might differ a bit, but I’m sure these will do well for you too!
In the Midlands, I've got scabious, leucanthemum daisies, dahlias, buddleia, and hydrangeas all in full bloom right now. My hardy geraniums are also gearing up for a second round of flowers! Plus, I recently planted some Michaelmas daisies (Stokes Aster) for late summer color. You can’t go wrong with sunflowers either. For low-maintenance options that bring color, try growing achillea (yarrow) - it’s a bee favorite!
If you want something that flowers into autumn, try Mexican fleabane (Erigeron) or penstemons, which bees absolutely love! Deadheading certain plants like geraniums and dianthus will keep them blooming longer. While cosmos are annuals, they provide flowers all the way until the first frosts. Be sure to research a bit before heading to the garden center; it’ll help you find the right selections!
Absolutely! Plus, staggering your planting can give you blooms at different times. I just love combining different plants for a long-lasting display!
Yesss! Achillea is the best! It really brightens up gloomy days and attracts tons of bees. You can also check out those Michaelmas daisies—they're simply stunning as we head into fall!