5 Late Summer Flowers You Should Plant Now

As summer begins to wind down, the garden might start to look a bit tired and lackluster. But don’t worry, there’s still time to inject some vibrant color into your outdoor space. Planting late summer flowers now can extend the beauty of your garden well into the fall. It’s all about choosing the right blooms that thrive in the late summer warmth and transition beautifully into the cooler autumn days.

I’ve spent years experimenting with various flowers, trying to find those perfect varieties that not only survive but thrive when planted later in the season. These are the flowers that have consistently brought life and color to my garden during those last warm days of summer and into the crisp early fall.

Related: Here’s What to Plant in August

Sunflowers

Sunflowers are the epitome of summer, and their tall, cheerful blooms can bring a splash of sunshine to any garden. Planting sunflowers now ensures that they’ll be ready to burst into bloom just as other summer flowers are fading. Look for varieties that have a shorter maturation period to make the most of the remaining warm days. Sunflowers are remarkably easy to grow; they thrive in well-drained soil and full sun. They also attract pollinators, adding another layer of life to your garden.

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums, or mums, are the classic fall flower known for their rich colors and longevity. Planting them in late summer allows them to establish roots and start blooming just as the leaves begin to change. Mums come in a variety of colors, from bright yellows and oranges to deep reds and purples, offering a wide palette to choose from. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade, making them versatile for different garden spots.

Asters

Asters are another fantastic choice for late summer planting. These star-shaped flowers are available in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white, and they bloom from late summer into the fall. Asters are great for attracting bees and butterflies, providing essential food sources for these pollinators late in the season. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Regular deadheading can encourage more blooms and keep the plants looking tidy.

Sedum

Sedum, particularly the Autumn Joy variety, is a hardy perennial that comes into its own in late summer and fall. Its clusters of small, star-shaped flowers start pink and mature to a rich, rusty red, adding texture and interest to the garden. Sedum is incredibly resilient, thriving in poor soil and requiring minimal water. This makes it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens. Plus, it’s a magnet for butterflies and bees.

Helenium

Helenium, also known as sneezeweed, is a bold and bright addition to the late summer garden. Its daisy-like flowers come in vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red. Helenium blooms from late summer through the fall, providing continuous color. It prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Regular watering and occasional feeding can help maintain its vigor and prolong the blooming period.

Related: Summer Vegetables To Plant in Your Garden

Extending the Bloom

Timing and care are crucial when planting late summer flowers. Start by preparing your soil well, ensuring it’s rich in nutrients and well-drained. Late summer can bring its own set of challenges, such as heat and sporadic rainfall, so be prepared to water new plantings regularly until they’re established.

Mulching around your plants can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, which is particularly important for new plants. As the season progresses, keep an eye on the weather and be ready to protect your plants from unexpected early frosts.

To keep your garden looking fresh, practice regular deadheading. Removing spent blooms encourages plants to produce more flowers and prevents them from going to seed too early. This simple task can significantly extend the blooming period and keep your garden vibrant for longer.

Consider companion planting to create a diverse and resilient garden ecosystem. Pairing late summer flowers with earlier bloomers can create a continuous display of color and ensure that there’s always something interesting happening in your garden.

The transition from summer to fall is a beautiful time in the garden. By choosing the right late summer flowers, you can enjoy a seamless flow of color and life. Whether you’re adding sunflowers for a touch of sunshine, chrysanthemums for a burst of fall color, or sedum for its resilient beauty, these plants can help your garden make a graceful shift into the new season.