Late Bloomers: A Guide to Late Summer Planting

No one can question that the world moves quickly. It seems like not that long ago, the area was on the brink of summer, but here we are, with the kids already complaining about back-to-school ads taking over the airways. The point is, if you were thinking about planting new flowers, time is running out if you want to take advantage of what summer has to offer. Some of you might be worried that it’s already too late for that kind of talk, but luckily that is not the case. There remain a lot of options, including several types of vegetables, herbs, and flowers you can plant and enjoy before winter ruins pretty much all chances of having a little green in your life – something the garden professionals here at The Parke Company are firm believers in.

What to Know About Planting in Late Summer

Flowers Forever

It has always seemed that flowers are something to be planted in the early spring, to be appreciated throughout the summer, before failing in the fall as all growing things begin to die. That is not the case however, as there are several types you can plant in the coming weeks that will bloom and you can enjoy late into the year, depending on when the first frost hits. It seems like the world is getting hotter every year, so there is a good chance you can look out your window and still see something lovely, like a chrysanthemum or a peony, growing nicely. Perennials in particular do well under these circumstances, as do some other plants you might not expect: tulips, daffodils, and other typically spring plants can be planted until September to great effect. All it takes is the usual amount of sunshine, water, fertilizer, and love.

Herbs and Veggies

Of course, flowers are not the only things that grow, and in some cases, flowers are actually the most difficult to grow later in the year. Herbs and vegetables, on the other hand, do pretty well late in the year. After all, autumn is the time of the year when most crops are harvested, so it stands to reason they might be able to handle a little frost here and there, not that it’s usually a problem here in Nashville, at least for another couple of months. As far as vegetables go, you can still plant most squashes, cucumbers, beans, broccoli, carrots, and radishes with no problem, if you have the space for it. On the herb side of things, look at planting cilantro, parsley, and basil, as those plants will have the highest chance of success.

It goes without saying that the longer you go without planting these plants, the lower your chances of success become. Do not lose hope! All you need to do is make a plan and stick to it, as soon as possible. If you have questions about what you can grow at this stage in the summer, it might be time to contact one of the professionals here at the Parke Company, as not only will we be able to help you find something still capable of blooming, but also something that looks nice and the best place to plant it.