Let’s set the scene: the sun is high, the deck chairs are out and the condensation idly trickles down the side of a tall glass of ice cold lemonade (or perhaps something a little stronger?). Being in the garden soaking up the sun is what summer is all about. So, making the most of your outdoor space should be on the top of our priority list. And what creates a summer garden paradise? Plants. Lots of them. Barely an hour goes by without television transmitting the horticultural escapades of an enthusiastically gurning Alan Titchmarsh. Barely a week passes without Monty Don or some other green-fingered guru publishing an epic tome that taps into the gardener in all of us.
What to Plant in Your Garden this Summer
Bloomers
Daylillies (Hemerocallis), native to China, Korea and Japan also do well when planted in summer. They are able to tolerate drought and thrive in many different conditions with little attention; perfect for lazy summer afternoons in the wake of a hosepipe ban.
These ‘Perfect Perenials’ come in a wide range of colours for cultivation and breeding and can suit any mood – burnt orange being a personal favourite, to add a hint of the exotic to any English country garden.
If the garden is a little shadier than one might hope, don’t despair.
For shaded areas try Hostas, Impatiens and Bleeding hearts. All of these plants are vibrant and will start small but grow to cover a large area.
The plants will carry on until the end of the season, ensuring that your garden retains its glory well into autumn.
Fruit And Veg
No summer garden is complete without some fruit to harvest for those picnic salads.
If you haven’t already got stuck in, get down to any plant retailers and pick up some strawberries and raspberry canes.
If short on space, these are available in hanging baskets already planted. They will be a fruity and hopefully fruitful addition to any outdoor space!
Similarly, tomatoes and cucumbers can be bought ready planted and are ripening as we speak.
Making The Right Choice for Your Summer Garden
