JAKARTA – Flowers add vibrant color and beauty to gardens, but growing them successfully requires proper planting and care. The challenge becomes even greater in the summer when higher temperatures can pose problems for some plants. Many flowers are sensitive to heat, making them prone to wilting. However, some varieties not only survive but thrive in the summer heat.
According to a report from The Spruce on Thursday, August 22, the following flowers are well-suited for summer planting:
Rudbeckia: Commonly known as Rudbeckia, this flower comes in a range of colors from bright yellow to deep orange. It blooms impressively, with flowers that can reach up to 4 feet wide on sturdy stems. Rudbeckia is ideal for creating vibrant flower arrangements.
Shoe Flower: Also known as Hibiscus, this plant holds cultural and religious significance in several Hindu ceremonies. Hibiscus thrives in warm, moist conditions and performs well with proper soil drainage. It blooms beautifully in summer, but as winter approaches, it’s essential to bring the plant indoors to protect it from the cold.
Bougainvillea: Scientifically known as Bougainvillea, this popular ornamental plant is cherished for its wide variety of flower colors and ease of care. In Indonesia, it’s also called “Bunga Kertas” or “Paper Flower” due to its thin, papery petals.
Dahlia: The national flower of Mexico, Dahlia is a summer-loving plant that doesn’t fare well in winter. It requires well-drained soil and partial sunlight. However, Dahlia flowers attract Japanese beetles, which can harm the plant. These pests should be removed manually. Dahlias need only moderate watering and should be fertilized at least once a month.
Aster: Aster, also known as tennis flower, is a summer bloom with over 20,000 species, each with unique colors, shapes, and petal arrangements resembling sun rays. Asters are drought-resistant and adaptable to different soil types. They emit a mild fragrance that attracts butterflies, and they are generally unaffected by pests.
Trumpet Flower: This fast-growing annual plant features large, trumpet-shaped blooms in colors like red, yellow, and orange, which are particularly attractive to hummingbirds. Trumpet flowers can grow up to 40 feet and have been bred to produce various color variations. While they can spread aggressively, this is less likely in areas with cooler summer temperatures.
Ixora: Also known as the stand-up flower or sorong flower, Ixora is a hardy shrub that thrives in both cool and warm climates. This annual plant blooms in a variety of colors, including pink, orange, and red. Its leaves are glossy, stiff, and oval-shaped, adding to its appeal. Ixora flourishes in well-drained soil with full sunlight.
These summer-friendly flowers can bring color and life to gardens, even during the hottest months. By choosing the right plants and providing the necessary care, gardeners can enjoy a vibrant and thriving garden all season long.