Summer is just around the corner and with temperatures warming up, now is the perfect time to start thinking about how you’ll decorate your deck this season. Take a look at these heat-loving plants that thrive in the hot summer months and consider adding a few to your deck for a more vibrant and lively look this year:
Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia)
The state flower of Maryland, this flower is bright yellow with a contrasting dark center and petals that burst out from black “eye” of the plant.
Phlox
Flowering in light pinks and purples, phlox can grow up to three feet tall in open spaces with full sunlight. They are a gardeners dream as they can last for more than six weeks and are good at attracting curious butterflies.
Nepeta (Catmint)
This plant blooms as clusters of small flowers in pastel white, purple, and blue hues. It gets its common name from the temporary euphoria cats get when allowed to play in the leaves of this gorgeous plant.
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower)
These flowers look quite similar to sunflowers or daisies and bloom in deep red and yellow hues. They get their name from their resemblance to the colorful blankets made traditionally by native Americans.
Verbena
Blooming in late spring, low verbenas make for good ground cover and hanging plants. They are incredibly colorful, easy-to-grow, can tolerate drought, and are also known to attract butterflies.
New England Aster
This hot pink flower with a bright yellow center flourishes in late summer and early autumn and consists of many small rays (or petals) that radiate light beautifully in the sun.
Monarda (Bee Balm)
Available in a wide range of colors, these unique flowers are known to attract bees, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. The leaves produce a spicy scent when crushed and were known to have been used in medicine and even for cooking by native Americans.
Vegetables & Herbs
There is also a variety of vegetables and herbs that thrive in hot weather, so consider setting up raised planters with any of these plants and add some fresh produce to your meals this summer:
- Eggplant
- Oregano
- Peppers
- Rosemary
- Thyme
- Sage
- Tomatoes
Remember, just because your plants love the heat does not mean they don’t need other care. Water your heat-tolerant plants according to their instructions and ensure there is a shady place they can rest if the weather gets above 100 degrees for an extended period of time.
Looking for professional help with a new deck in Anne Arundel County? North American Deck & Patio is a decking contractor dedicated to making your outdoor living space the best it can be. Contact us today for more information!
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