Is it OK to plant flowers in August?
While many people think that planting season ends in the summer, there are actually plenty of flowers that can be planted in August. This is a great time to refresh your flower beds and add some color to your garden.
One of the key factors to consider when planting flowers in August is to choose varieties that have a shorter growing season. These are often referred to as “cool season” flowers, as they can tolerate the cooler temperatures that come with the approaching fall season.
Some popular cool season flowers that can be planted in August include pansies, violas, snapdragons, and calendula. These flowers not only add a burst of color to your garden, but they also thrive in the cooler temperatures that come with the later part of summer.
In addition to cool season flowers, there are also some warm season flowers that can be planted in August. These flowers are more heat tolerant and can withstand the higher temperatures that often come with late summer.
Some examples of warm season flowers that can be planted in August include zinnias, marigolds, and sunflowers. These flowers are not only beautiful, but they also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden.
When planting flowers in August, it’s important to provide them with the right care to ensure their success. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. Prepare the soil: Before planting, make sure to prepare the soil by loosening it with a garden fork or tiller. This will help the roots of the flowers to penetrate the soil and establish themselves.
2. Water regularly: August can be a hot and dry month, so it’s important to water your flowers regularly. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
3. Mulch around the flowers: Mulching around your flowers can help to conserve moisture in the soil and prevent weeds from taking over. Use a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw, around the base of the plants.
4. Provide shade: If you live in an area with intense afternoon sun, consider providing some shade for your flowers. This can be done by placing a shade cloth or using a temporary shade structure.
5. Deadhead spent flowers: To encourage continuous blooming, make sure to deadhead any spent flowers. This involves removing the faded flowers from the plant to promote new growth.
By following these tips and choosing the right flowers for your region, you can successfully plant flowers in August and enjoy a beautiful garden well into the fall season.
I have personally planted flowers in August and have had great success. One year, I planted pansies in my flower beds in late August and they bloomed beautifully throughout the fall and even into the winter months. It was a pleasant surprise to see such vibrant colors in my garden during the cooler months.
So, don’t hesitate to plant flowers in August. With the right care and selection of flowers, you can enjoy a stunning garden even as summer comes to an end.
