Late Summer Perennials: Keep the Color Going Strong!

As summer starts to wind down, many gardens begin to lose their vibrant colors. But don’t let your garden fade away just yet! Late summer is the perfect time to add some fresh perennials that will keep your garden looking lively and full of color well into fall. Whether you’re looking to fill in gaps or want to extend the blooming season, these late summer perennials are here to save the day.

Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan)

One of the stars of the late summer garden, Rudbeckia, or Black-Eyed Susan, brings bright, sunny yellow blooms that last for weeks. These hardy perennials are not only easy to grow, but they’re also drought-tolerant and loved by pollinators. Plant them in clusters for a stunning effect that will light up your garden.

Sedum (Stonecrop)

Sedum, with its fleshy leaves and vibrant flower clusters, is a must-have for late summer gardens. The popular variety ‘Autumn Joy’ begins to bloom in late summer, with flowers that transition from pink to deep russet as the season progresses. Sedums are great for adding texture and interest to your garden beds or containers.

Gaillardia (Blanket Flower)

Gaillardia, commonly known as Blanket Flower, is a vibrant addition to the late summer garden. With its fiery, daisy-like blooms in shades of red, orange, and yellow, Blanket Flower brings warmth and color to any garden bed or border. This hardy perennial thrives in sunny spots and is incredibly drought-tolerant, making it perfect for the hot end-of-summer days. Its long-lasting flowers are also great for cutting, adding a splash of sunshine to your indoor arrangements. Plant Blanket Flower in the middle or front of your borders for a burst of color that will last well into fall.

Hydrangea

Hydrangeas are a classic choice for adding bold, beautiful color to the late summer garden. With large, rounded flower heads in shades of blue, pink, purple, or white, depending on the soil pH, Hydrangeas offer a lush, dramatic look that’s hard to beat. They thrive in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil, making them ideal for filling in shady spots. Hydrangeas are also excellent for cutting, allowing you to bring their stunning blooms indoors to enjoy. Plant them in groups for a breathtaking display, or use them as a focal point in your garden beds.

Coreopsis (Tickseed)

If you want a low-maintenance perennial that blooms profusely in late summer, Coreopsis is your plant. With cheerful yellow or pink blooms, Coreopsis adds a pop of color that can last until the first frost. They’re also fantastic for naturalizing and work well in both garden beds and containers.

Aster

Asters are the perfect perennials to bridge the gap between summer and fall. Their dainty, star-shaped flowers in shades of purple, blue, pink, and white bloom from late summer into autumn, providing much-needed color when many other plants have faded. Asters are also magnets for butterflies, making them a delightful addition to any garden.

Echinacea (Coneflower)

Echinacea is a garden favorite that continues to impress in late summer. With its daisy-like blooms in shades of pink, purple, orange, and white, coneflower is not only beautiful but also beneficial for attracting bees and butterflies. Plus, it’s a tough plant that can handle heat and drought, making it perfect for this time of year.

Phlox

Garden Phlox is another fantastic perennial that shines in late summer. With its fragrant, colorful blooms in shades of pink, purple, white, and red, Phlox adds a touch of romance to the garden. They’re great for cutting and bringing indoors, and their sweet fragrance will fill your garden with a delightful scent.

Tips for Planting Late Summer Perennials:

• Watering: Ensure newly planted perennials receive adequate water as they establish themselves, especially during the hot end-of-summer days.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your perennials to help retain moisture and keep the roots cool.
• Deadheading: Remove spent blooms to encourage new flowers and keep your plants looking fresh and vibrant.
• Spacing: Give your perennials enough space to grow and spread, as overcrowding can lead to poor air circulation and disease.

Why Late Summer Perennials?

Late summer perennials are perfect for filling in those bare spots left by early bloomers and extending the beauty of your garden into the cooler months. They’re hardy, often drought-tolerant, and provide essential nectar for pollinators preparing for winter. By adding these perennials to your garden, you’ll enjoy a burst of color that keeps the summer spirit alive, even as the season begins to change.

So, don’t let your garden’s color fade away—plant some late summer perennials today and keep your garden glowing right through to fall!