A Little Summer TLC
As we reach the peak of summer, now is the perfect time to give your garden and flower containers a little TLC. A mid-summer refresh will not only keep your blooms vibrant but can also ensure your plants thrive throughout the rest of the season.
Here are some simple ways to get started on your mid-summer refresh and keep flower containers looking stunning:
1. Deadheading
Deadheading offers more than just a clean look for your plants – removing older blooms is an essential task to encourage new growth and ensure your containers stay looking fresh. This simple act helps your plants conserve energy, so they can focus on producing new buds.
2. Refresh Soil
If your containers have been sitting for a while, the soil may have lost crucial nutrients. Consider refreshing the top few inches with fresh potting soil for a mid-summer infusion!
3. Add New Plants
Swapping out some plants will add a fresh burst of color. Summer annuals, such as petunias, coneflowers, and Black-eyed Susans, are perfect for adding vibrancy to your containers. Check out the links to these plants below!
4. Watering Habits
Watering is key during the heat of summer. Confirm your containers are getting enough water, but avoid over-watering. You can perform a simple finger test to check in on your plants. Stick your finger into the soil up to your first or second knuckle. If the soil feels dry, it’s time to water. If it feels moist, wait before watering again.
Are Your Spring Flowers Starting to Fade?
Don’t worry: summer is in full bloom! We’ve picked out 5 beautiful summer flowers that thrive in New Hampshire’s heat and last all season long.
1. Coneflower (Echinacea)
Why it’s great: Heat-tolerant and drought-resistant.
Blooms: Mid to late summer.
Bonus: Attracts butterflies and birds.
2. Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia)
Why it’s great: Tough and reliable in full sun.
Blooms: July to September.
Bonus: Adds bright yellow color to your garden.
3. Zinnias
Why it’s great: Loves the heat and comes in a rainbow of colors.
Blooms: Early summer to frost.
Bonus: Great for cutting and arrangements.
4. Geranium ‘Rozanne’
Why it’s great: Requires minimal care and is adaptable to various conditions.
Blooms: Early summer to first frost.
Bonus: Low maintenance and deer and rabbit resistant.
5. Anise Hyssop
Why it’s great: Thrives in full sun and is drought tolerant.
Blooms: June to September.
Bonus: Deer resistant and pollinator friendly.