Fact is, nearly all popular annuals used for seasonal color do well in the heat — both in the ground and in containers – but these are standouts, all of which can be planted now.

And as luck would have it, many of them combine together beautifully and attract pollinators. Most are also pretty hardy, able to withstand temperatures near or even below freezing. Just make sure to keep them well watered and watch out for pests, especially aphids and caterpillars. The latter attacks Petunias, Million Bells, and Salvia in particular, chewing off their blooms. Spray with all-natural Bt to get rid of them.

Note: Not all annuals are available online, but our tables are full so come on in!

This list is even longer, and includes most of your favorites. Mine too.

And once again, as luck would have it, many of them combine together beautifully and attract pollinators. Plus they last for years.

In this category, darn near everything qualifies as heat tolerant, but these I would classify as exceptionally so. 

And as luck would have it, many of them combine together beautifully, attract pollinators, last for years, and are incredibly carefree.

The vast majority of annuals and perennials you’ll find on our tables are grown at our production facility just down the road from the nursery, which means they’re already acclimated to our summer heat and humidity and far less likely to suffer transplant shock when planted.

When I refer to plants as being heat-tolerant, I’m talking only about their ability to withstand the high ambient air temperatures we typically experience in July and August and much of September. I’m not necessarily talking about plants that thrive in full sun, because some of those I’ve included actually grow best with some afternoon shade or dappled light all day. Nor am I suggesting these plants are drought tolerant; in fact, many of them grow best in moist soil, and all of them require routine watering.

I’ll take a look at how to keep summer veggies and herbs thriving, and offer tips on planting the fall veggie garden as early as next month. Yes, next month!