Summer is the time when gardens come alive with vibrant colors and exciting new growth. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner, adding the right plants to your landscape can make a big impact.
In this article, we’ll explore 10 must-have plants that will take your summer garden to the next level.
1. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a classic summer plant that no garden should be without. These warm-season vegetables are easy to grow and come in many sizes, shapes, and colors. They thrive in full sun and well-draining soil. You can harvest tomatoes when they turn fully ripe, which usually takes around 70-80 days after planting. Use them in salads, sandwiches, sauces, or simply enjoy them fresh off the vine.
2. Zucchini
Zucchini is another summer staple that produces prolifically throughout the season. These versatile vegetables prefer fertile soil and ample moisture. Harvest them when they are 6-8 inches long for the best flavor. Use them in stir-fries, fritters, soups, or as a healthy side dish.
3. Eggplant
Eggplants are a beautiful and flavorful addition to any summer garden. They require full sun and well-draining soil. You can harvest them when they reach their full size and color, which can take up to 80 days. Use them in recipes like babaganoush, ratatouille, or grilled eggplant sandwiches.
4. Peppers
Peppers come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and heat levels, making them a fun and exciting addition to any garden. They need well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Harvest them when they reach their full color and size, which can take anywhere from 60 to 90 days. Use them in salsas, stews, sandwiches, or as a healthy snack.
5. Coneflowers
Coneflowers are a beautiful and easy-to-grow perennial that blooms in the summer. Their vibrant colors attract birds, butterflies, and bees to your garden. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. You can use their flowers in teas, tinctures, or simply enjoy them as a cut flower.
6. Black-eyed Susans
Black-eyed Susans are a hardy and reliable summer bloomer that adds a cheerful touch to any landscape. They require well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. You can harvest their vibrant yellow or orange blooms for use in cut flower arrangements, or simply enjoy their beauty in the garden.
7. Blanket Flower
Blanket Flower, also known as Gaillardia, is a colorful summer bloomer that attracts pollinators to your garden. These drought-tolerant perennials prefer well-drained soil and full sun. Harvest their bright red, orange, and yellow blooms for use in cut flower arrangements, or let them add a pop of color to your landscape.
8. Vlantaba
Verbena bonariensis, commonly known as Vlantaba, is a tall and airy herb that adds a whimsical touch to any summer garden. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. You can harvest its delicate purple blooms for use in cut flower arrangements or let them sway in the breeze to add movement to your landscape.
9. Aster
Asters are a classic late-summer bloomer that comes in a variety of colors, including purple, pink, blue, and white. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. You can harvest their daisy-like blooms for use in cut flower arrangements or let them continue to bloom into the fall.
10. Zinnias
Zinnias are a cheerful and easy-to-grow annual that adds a burst of color to any summer garden. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun. You can harvest their colorful blooms for use in cut flower arrangements or let them continue to brighten up your garden.
In addition to these 10 must-have plants, you might also consider adding other summer garden herbs or flowers like basil, mint, sunflowers, or marigolds. These plants not only add beauty to your landscape but can also be used in cooking, teas, or herbal remedies.
Adding the right plants to your summer garden can make all the difference. Whether you prefer colorful blooms, tasty vegetables, or herbs for cooking, there is a plant out there that will suit your needs. With these 10 must-have plants, you can create a stunning and vibrant summer landscape that will leave your neighbors in awe.
The Author:
Pioneerthinking.com – Ingredients for a Simple Life.
Photo. Karolina Grabowska
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