Can I plant flowers in summer?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Summer planting in a garden requires special strategies to achieve success. I've even grown vinca and portulaca during extreme heat, and I like to follow these rules. Plant heat-tolerant varieties that prefer weather above 85°F and don't pick cool-season flowers. Water deeply in the morning for pots, not in the midday sun. Bring in shade cloth when it gets really hot. I spent more time focusing on succulents for fall blooms, which I started in mid-summer.
Heat-Tolerant Flowers
- Vinca withstands temperatures up to 100°F without wilting
- Portulaca thrives in full sun with minimal watering needs
- Sunflowers tolerate heat while attracting pollinators
- Zinnias bloom continuously through summer heat
Critical Techniques
- Water at dawn to minimize evaporation loss
- Apply 3-inch mulch layer to keep roots cool
- Use 30% shade cloth during heatwaves above 95°F
- Plant during cloudy periods or light rain
Select heat-tolerant varieties carefully. Vinca can withstand high sun, and portulaca, with its succulent leaves, can retain moisture. I often use drought-tolerant gazanias with those for season-long color. Do not transplant during heat waves; instead, wait until cooler times. Start seeds indoors for cool-season flowers to bloom in late summer/fall, such as asters, and transplant at dusk.
During summer, watering is crucial. I perform deep soak watering at dawn (three times a week), never light surface watering every day. My moisture meter shows the soil dries 50% quicker during July. Consider using drip irrigation (focus on roots). Container plants should be checked daily, as pot heat can quickly dry. Water-absorbing crystals can help in a potting mix.
Utilize shade solutions selectively. Use 30% shade cloth for heat waves over 95°F. Use it in a way that only blocks PM sun. My zinnias survived temperatures of 100°F using this technique. White plastic mulch reflects heat, keeping root temperatures cooler. Use tall shrubs to provide natural shade patterns.
Plan planting according to forecasts. 10-day forecasts are useful for avoiding the hottest days of the year. I like to plant during cloudy weather and or light rainfall. Zones 8 and above, should plant early in the morning! Desert zones (zones 8 and above) should also plan to plant at dusk, allowing evening temperatures to drop from daytime, and you are safe to plant. Always grow to bloom in the fall chrysanthemum season.
Read the full article: When to Plant Flowers: Month-by-Month Guide
