14 Perennial Plants You Can Plant This August

As August rolls around, you may be looking for some perennial plants that can thrive in your garden even when summer starts to fade.

Perennial plants are perfect for adding texture, color, and life to your outdoor space as they return year after year without needing to be replanted.

In addition to being low maintenance, perennials also offer a variety of options to suit different gardening styles and climates.

Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, selecting the right perennials for your August planting can feel overwhelming. To help you choose the perfect plants for your specific growing zone and garden aesthetic, we’ll provide a list of beautiful and hardy perennials ideal for an August planting.

From vibrant blooms to lush foliage, these plants will not only enhance your garden’s aesthetic but also contribute to a healthy ecosystem by supporting pollinators and offering pest control.

With careful consideration and proper care, your garden will soon become a haven of beautiful perennial plants that will fill your outdoor space with color, texture, and life for years to come.

Understanding Perennials

Masterwort

Perennials are plants that live for more than two years, and they’re a wonderful addition to your garden. They offer variety, color, and a sense of stability while requiring less maintenance than annuals. Once established, perennials can take care of themselves through multiple growing seasons, with minimal interference from you.

When you plant perennials in August, you’re giving them a head start on the next growing season. This way, their roots can become established before the winter months, ensuring a strong and healthy plant come spring.

Plus, planting perennials in August could give you the opportunity to enjoy some late-season blooms, extending the beauty of your garden even further.

It’s important to choose perennials that are well-suited for your climate and growing conditions. Factors to consider include sunlight, soil type, and moisture level.

Keep in mind that perennials may have specific watering, fertilizing, and pruning needs, so familiarize yourself with the requirements of each plant before adding them to your garden.

Some perennials are more low-maintenance, while others may require a bit more attention. When selecting the right perennials for your garden, consider the following attributes:

  • Drought-tolerance: Perennials that can handle dry conditions are perfect for areas where water conservation is a priority.
  • Deer-resistance: If you’re located in an area with deer populations, choose perennials that are less appealing to these animals.
  • Pollinator-friendly: Select perennials that attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to support your local ecosystem.

Get inspired and start planning your August perennial garden today. A mix of carefully chosen perennials can be a long-lasting, beautiful, and eco-friendly addition to your outdoor space.

Factors to Consider

When selecting perennial plants for your garden this August, there are a few factors to consider to ensure their success:

1. Hardiness Zones: Make sure to choose plants suitable for your region’s climate. Check the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Hardiness Zone Map to find your zone, and select plants accordingly.

2. Sun Exposure: Different plants require different levels of sunlight. Some thrive in full sun, while others prefer shade or partial shade. Observe your garden’s sun exposure and choose plants that will thrive in those specific conditions.

3. Soil Type: Soil types vary from sandy to clay, and different plants have different soil preferences. Determine your soil type, and choose plants that will grow well in it. If necessary, amend your soil to improve its structure and fertility.

4. Water Requirements: Pay attention to the water requirements of your chosen plants. If you’re planting in a drought-prone area, opt for drought-tolerant perennial plants or consider installing an efficient irrigation system.

5. Garden Space: Consider the size and shape of your garden, as well as the available plantable space. Avoid overcrowding by selecting plants that will grow comfortably within the allotted space.

6. Plant Height and Spread: Some perennials are taller or wider when they reach maturity. Keep in mind the height and spread of each plant to ensure they fit harmoniously in your garden design.

7. Bloom Time and Color: Choose plants with varied blooming times and complementary colors to create an appealing visual landscape throughout the season.

By taking these factors into account, you’ll be well on your way to creating a stunning, low-maintenance perennial garden that you can enjoy year after year. Happy planting!

Perennials Suitable for August Planting

Coreopsis

Coreopsis is a beautiful, low-maintenance plant with daisy-like flowers that bloom in summer and autumn. You can easily grow them in well-draining soil with plenty of sunlight. They’re an excellent choice for borders or as a pop of color in your garden.

Echinacea

Echinacea Tomato Soup

Echinacea, commonly known as coneflower, features large, showy blooms in various colors like pink, purple, and white. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, making them ideal for your late summer garden display.

Rudbeckia

Rudbeckia, or black-eyed Susan, offers stunning yellow or orange flowers with a dark center. Plant them in moderately fertile, well-drained soil, and they will reward you with blooms throughout August and September.

Sedum

purple sedum

Sedum, also known as stonecrop, is a versatile and easy-to-grow perennial, perfect for late summer planting. It comes in many shapes, sizes, and colors, providing you with a variety of options for your garden.

Bluebeard

Bluebeard

Bluebeard, or Caryopteris, offers eye-catching blue flowers in clusters from late summer to early autumn. This low-maintenance shrub requires full sun and well-draining soil, making it an excellent addition to your late-season garden.

Butterfly Bush

The butterfly bush is renowned for its ability to attract butterflies and other pollinators with its fragrant, colorful blooms. Plant it in a sunny spot with well-drained soil, and enjoy its enchanting presence from late summer until the first frost.

Coral Bells

Coral bells are known for their unique, bell-shaped flowers and attractive foliage. They thrive in a range of conditions, making them suitable for various garden locations. Look for varieties that bloom in late summer to add a touch of elegance to your outdoor space.

Fountain Grass

Fountain-Grass

Fountain grass is an ornamental grass that adds texture and movement to your garden with its arching foliage and feathery plumes. It enjoys sunny spots and well-drained soil, so consider planting in August to enjoy its beauty through the fall.

Japanese Anemone

Japanese anemone features delicate flowers in pink or white shades, providing a graceful touch to your garden. Plant them in partial shade and well-drained soil, and they will bloom from late summer until the first frost.

Maiden Grass

Another ornamental grass, maiden grass, is known for its fine-textured foliage and stunning seed heads. Plant it in full sun and well-draining soil and enjoy its elegant presence well into the fall.

Masterwort

Masterwort-4

Masterwort is an excellent late-season option, offering clusters of starburst-like flowers in various shades. This perennial thrives in partial shade and moist, well-draining soil.

Goldenrod

Goldenrod

Goldenrod brings a burst of sunny yellow blooms to your garden from late summer to autumn. Plant it in full sun and well-drained soil to encourage a healthy, long-lasting display.

Perennial Hibiscus

For those who enjoy bold, extravagant blooms, the perennial hibiscus is a must. These stunning flowers come in a variety of vibrant colors and thrive in moist, well-draining soil with plenty of sun.

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums are the epitome of autumn blooms, bringing an array of colors to your fall garden. Whether in pots or borders, be sure to plant them in full sun for optimal performance, and enjoy their exquisite flowers from late summer until the first frost.