Looking for some low-maintenance plants to keep a memorial site looking beautiful all summer long? These popular picks are not only gorgeous but also incredibly hardy. Here’s a breakdown of why they’re the perfect choice for a summer grave garden.
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++Zonal Geraniums (Pelargonium zonale)
If you’re dealing with a spot that gets direct, blazing sun, geraniums are your best friend. These classic beauties thrive even in the heat of the midday sun. Throughout their summer blooming season, they provide a long-lasting splash of color. Just a heads-up: to keep them looking their best, they do need a regular watering schedule. Other than that, they’re pretty much “set it and forget it.”
++Flaming Katy (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana)
The Kalanchoe, or “Flaming Katy,” is a fantastic combo of vibrant flowers and thick, waxy green leaves. While the individual flowers are small, the plant produces them in massive clusters. It’s an ideal low-maintenance choice for summer because those succulent leaves store water beautifully—meaning you don’t have to worry if you can’t make it out to water them every single day.
++Fuchsias (Fuchsia)
If you want something with a unique, elegant look, Fuchsias are the way to go. [During their blooming period[/link], they show off stunning bell-shaped flowers, and some varieties even feature striking multi-colored petals. The best part? Fuchsias love the shade. If the site is tucked under trees or doesn’t get much direct light, these will still bloom happily.
++Marigolds (Tagetes)
Marigolds are a staple for a reason. They are incredibly colorful [during their flowering season[/link] and bring a bright, cheerful energy to any space. They are tough as nails, surviving hot summer months with very little water, and they’ll keep right on blooming until October. If you need a robust plant that doesn’t require a lot of fuss, this is it.
++Wax Begonias (Begonia semperflorens)
For a full, lush look, you can’t beat Wax Begonias. They start blooming in May and don’t stop until the first frost. Don’t let their delicate-looking petals fool you—these plants are survivors. They handle dry spells just as well as heavy rain. Plus, they play well with others, making them a favorite for mixed flower bed arrangements.
++Lavender (Lavandula latifolia)
Lavender is beloved for its [iconic purple blooms[/link] and calming scent. While it’s a garden favorite, it also looks sophisticated and tidy on a grave. It’s a hit with bees and butterflies, too! Lavender is very hardy and adds a subtle, Mediterranean touch that stays looking manicured with very little effort.
++Busy Lizzie (Impatiens walleriana)
The “Busy Lizzie” gets its name because it is a non-stop blooming machine. Very few plants work as hard [during the blooming season[/link] to produce so many flowers. Despite all that work, they aren’t demanding at all. From May through October, they provide a thick carpet of color, and with so many varieties available, you can find almost any shade you like.
++Diamond Frost (Euphorbia hypericifolia)
Looking for something a little more unique? “Diamond Frost” (also known as Zauberschnee) is a hidden gem. It produces a delicate cloud of tiny white flowers that look like a dusting of summer snow. It keeps its tidy appearance even in extreme heat, ensuring the site looks well-kept all season long. It’s a sophisticated choice that you don’t see every day!