7 Best Summer Flowers to Plant in July

Looking for a splash of color this July? These summer stunners are guaranteed to brighten up your garden all season long. Here’s a look at what makes each of these plants a must-have for your outdoor space.

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++Garden Phlox (Phlox)
Garden Phlox
If you’re dreaming of a lush, full summer bloom, Garden Phlox is a fantastic choice. These plants produce massive clusters of colorful flowers for a long stretch of the season. They come in all sorts of varieties, ranging in height and color to fit any garden style. Pro tip: Be sure to deadhead the spent blooms. This saves the plant energy during its blooming period and encourages even more flowers to pop up!

++Sweet William (Dianthus barbatus)
Sweet William
Sweet William is another classic that promises a gorgeous summer show. While it originally hails from Eastern Europe, it’s been a garden favorite for centuries. You’ll often see these as popular cut flowers in bouquets, but they’ll last much longer if you grow them right in your own backyard. Just pick a good spot with plenty of sunlight and good air circulation to keep them happy and growing strong.

++Busy Lizzie (Impatiens walleriana)
Busy Lizzie

The name “Busy Lizzie” comes from the plant’s nonstop flower production. These guys are marathon bloomers, showing off from May all the way through October. They are a go-to for many gardeners looking to brighten up a balcony or patio. Just keep in mind that Busy Lizzies prefer a bit of a break from the heat—they do best in partial to full shade.

++Poppy (Papaver rhoeas)
Poppy
You really can’t miss the vibrant red of a common poppy in the summertime. From May to July, their delicate, paper-thin petals add a whimsical touch to any landscape. They thrive in warm, sunny spots and are incredibly low-maintenance once they’re settled. You’ll often see them growing wild in meadows or along roadsides, which just goes to show how hardy and easy-going they are!

++Dahlia (Dahlia)
Dahlia
Dahlias are the absolute divas of the summer garden—in the best way possible! They offer huge, intricate blooms and are a favorite for home-grown bouquets. Whether you want a specific color palette or a wild, multicolored look, there’s a dahlia for you. When planting dahlias, make sure they get plenty of sun. If they’re happy, they’ll keep blooming from July right up until the first frost.

++Hydrangea (Hydrangea)
Hydrangea
If you need something bushy and substantial that blooms in July, you can’t go wrong with a hydrangea. They are the backbone of many cottage and country-style gardens, but their massive flower heads look great in almost any setting. When choosing a location, try to find a spot protected from the wind and away from the harsh midday sun, as those big leaves can wilt easily in the heat.

++Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)
Sunflower
Nothing says summer quite like a sunflower. Their bright yellow petals and dark centers are iconic, and it’s always fun to watch them literally “track” the sun across the sky during the day. They are super easy to plant and usually put on their big show from June through the end of September.

%%Nasturtium (Tropaeolum)
Nasturtium
Last but not least, Nasturtiums are a July favorite. If you give them a trellis or some support, they’ll happily climb upward, showing off their multi-colored blooms against lush green foliage. They’re also a fantastic choice for balcony boxes or hanging planters if you want a trailing look. Plus, they’re just as tough as they are beautiful!