What Plants to Grow in Summer
There’s something special about being outside and soaking up the summer sunshine, all while tending to your beautiful garden.
If laying out to catch some rays isn’t your style, and you’d rather settle into something productive, then why not embrace the sunshine while getting to grips with some seasonal gardening. Slap on some sunscreen and get your hands dirty, planting the perfect summer seedlings. Whatever you decide to grow in your garden, be sure to check out our summer gardening tips to find out how to properly care for your garden while the temperatures climb. Below, we have compiled a list of the best flowers to plant in your garden in the Australian summertime, wherever in the land Down Under you may be.
Location, Location, Location
Need we say more? Location makes a big difference to which seedlings will and won’t spring to life during the summer months. As the temperatures, humidity, and general conditions vary so much between regions in Australia, the key to success is picking the right flowers to help your garden bloom, depending on the local climate. Here are a few of our top picks for petals based on your location:
Queensland, Northern Territory & Western Australia
Tropical summer climates can be hit and miss for many plants, but blooms like balsam, celosia, cockscomb, and marigold thrive in these conditions. Adding in some sunflowers can also be a great way to brighten up your garden on those rainy grey days. An appropriate watering schedule is really important in these muggy climates, as excess moisture in the plants will leave them susceptible to attacks from fungi and mildew.
South Australia & Perth
The Mediterranean summer that Adelaideans and Perthites are accustomed to also presents temperatures that can be a bit too hot for new plants. In this case, we recommend taking the time to give your existing greenery some TLC- trimming spent roses or deadheading flowering annuals. This will give them a new lease on life, extending their flowering for another season. As the heat here is dry, you’ll want to ensure that your plants are getting enough water, and are protected from direct sunlight where necessary.
Outback
Unfortunately for those living in the Outback, the hot, dry, and arid conditions aren’t very nurturing to flowering plants, so there isn’t a whole lot that can be grown here, especially during the summer. Some herbs, however, will do well in the hot weather, so consider grabbing a basil plant or something similar to enjoy in your favourite cuisine. Be sure to keep herbs well-watered in the dry heat!
New South Wales & Victoria
The temperate climate in these spots is ideal for planting your summer seeds. Just like up north, marigolds will thrive here, along with ageratum, vinca, and viola. You can also add cosmos and asters to your garden, along with wallflowers for an extra pop of colour.
Tasmania & colder climates
While the summer temperatures may not reach the same highs as the rest of the country, Tasmanians and Melbournians can still bask in the glory of the summer planting season. Forget-me-nots, Iceland poppies, lupins, and zinnias will all thrive here. The ever-versatile marigolds and wallflowers can also blossom beautifully in these chillier locations.
Something for Everyone
These flowers, among others, are sure to bring your garden bursting to life with vibrant colour, with gardening to keep you busy during the weekends. If you want to really enjoy the fruits of your labour (pun intended), there are also a number of fruits and veggies that you can grow at home during the summertime.
While it may be the good weather that gets you in the garden in the first place, once you find your green thumb, the outdoor opportunities are endless. From when the temperature peaks right through to the depths of Aussie winter, you can make your garden stand out from all the rest with seasonal flowers aplenty.
Contact the Experts
There’s a lot to consider when planting and caring for your dream garden. At Jim’s Mowing, our experts are ready to lend you a helping hand at every step of the way. From our gardening service to helpful tips and tricks, we’ll have your garden growing and thriving, ready for you to enjoy, in no time. Contact us to find out more about how we can help you and your garden.
