15 Popular Perennials You Can Still Plant in July

Gardening in July doesn’t have to mean the end of planting season. Despite the heat and dry conditions, many perennials can still be successfully added to your garden.

You’ll discover a variety of beautiful, resilient plants that thrive even when planted in the middle of summer. So grab your gardening gloves and get ready to explore some fantastic options for refreshing your outdoor space.

1. Black-eyed Susan

You can start planting Black-eyed Susan in July. These bright flowers are hardy and can handle the summer heat. Just find a sunny spot in your garden.

Water them regularly, but don’t let the soil get too soggy. With a little care, these cheerful blooms will thrive and add beautiful color to your garden.

2. Purple Coneflower

Purple Coneflower, also known as Echinacea, brightens up your garden with its stunning purple petals. These resilient plants thrive in full sun to partial shade.

You can plant them in July, and they’ll continue to bloom into the fall. They attract butterflies and bees, adding life and vibrancy to your outdoor space.

Low maintenance and drought-tolerant, Purple Coneflowers are an excellent choice for any garden. Consider adding them to your garden for a splash of color and ease. They’re hardy and beautiful.

3. Shasta Daisy

Shasta Daisy is a charming perennial that blooms from early summer to fall. You can plant it in July and still enjoy its pretty white petals. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

You’ll love how low-maintenance Shasta Daisies are. They attract butterflies, adding life to your garden. Regular deadheading encourages continuous blooming.

4. Daylily

Daylilies are an excellent choice for your garden in July.

These vibrant flowers come in a variety of colors and bloom throughout the summer.

They are low-maintenance and adapt well to different soil types.

Daylilies are also drought-tolerant, making them perfect for hot summer months.

With their resilience and beauty, you’ll enjoy these perennials year after year.

5. Lantana

Lantana is a resilient choice for your garden, especially in the heat of July. These vibrant, multi-colored blooms attract butterflies and hummingbirds, bringing your yard to life.

You’ll appreciate that Lantana doesn’t require much water once established. It thrives in full sun and can tolerate drought conditions, making it perfect for summer planting.

6. Astilbe

Astilbe is a lovely perennial that thrives in shaded gardens.

Its feathery plumes of flowers add a splash of color, ranging from soft pinks to deep reds.

You’ll appreciate its fluffy, textured foliage, which stays attractive all season long.

Astilbe prefers moist, well-drained soil and does well with consistent watering. Plant them in a spot with partial or full shade for best results.

7. Bee Balm

Bee Balm, also known as Monarda, is a vibrant and fragrant perennial.

You can still plant it in July for beautiful flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, providing bright blooms in shades of red, pink, and purple.

8. Russian Sage

Russian Sage is a beautiful addition to your garden with its silvery-green foliage and delicate blue flowers.

You can plant it in July, and it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

This hardy perennial is drought-tolerant, making it easier to care for during hot summer months.

Enjoy its long blooming season and pleasant aroma in your garden!

9. Sedum

Sedum, also known as Stonecrop, is a hardy, low-maintenance plant perfect for your summer garden.

This perennial thrives in well-drained soil and enjoys full sun. It offers attractive, fleshy foliage and vibrant blooms that attract pollinators.

Sedum varieties come in many colors, from soft pinks to vivid yellows. They’re drought-tolerant and extremely versatile for borders, rock gardens, and containers.

10. Coreopsis

Coreopsis, also known as tickseed, is a bright and cheerful perennial that thrives in sunny spots.

You’ll love its daisy-like flowers that add a pop of yellow, red, or pink to your garden.

These drought-tolerant plants attract butterflies and are a great low-maintenance choice for your landscape.

11. Yarrow

Yarrow is a beautiful and hardy perennial that you can plant in July. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a great choice for various garden conditions.

You’ll love its clusters of tiny, colorful flowers that attract butterflies and bees. Yarrow also has a long blooming season, providing extended interest in your garden.

12. Lavender

Lavender is a fantastic choice for July planting. With its lovely fragrance, it can enhance your garden’s ambiance and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

You should plant lavender in a sunny spot with well-draining soil. It thrives in hot, dry conditions and requires minimal water, making it ideal for low-maintenance gardening.

Consider using lavender in borders or as a fragrant hedge.

13. Phlox

Phlox is a wonderful addition to any garden, known for its clusters of vibrant, star-shaped flowers. You can choose from a variety of colors like pink, red, white, and purple.

Planting phlox in July gives it time to establish roots before the colder months. It thrives in well-drained soil and enjoys full sun to partial shade.

Adding phlox to your garden can create a beautiful, colorful display that attracts butterflies and bees.

14. Gaillardia

Gaillardia, also known as blanket flower, brings vibrant colors to your garden with its daisy-like blooms. This hardy perennial thrives in sunny spots and well-drained soil.

You’ll enjoy a long blooming season, often from early summer to fall. Gaillardia attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing the ecological health of your garden.

Its drought tolerance makes it a low-maintenance addition, perfect for busy gardeners.

15. Salvia

Salvia is a fantastic perennial that you can still plant in July. It’s known for its vibrant purple, red, or blue flowers which attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

This hardy plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a great addition to your garden. It also has minimal maintenance needs.

Plant salvia now and look forward to bright, colorful blooms through the summer and into the fall.

Tips for Planting Perennials in Summer

Planting perennials in summer requires attention to variety selection, soil health, appropriate watering techniques, and combating pests. It’s crucial to ensure the plants are well-prepared to thrive in the warmer months.

Choosing the Right Varieties

Select perennials that are hardy and suited for summer planting. Look for plants like daylilies, coneflowers, and black-eyed Susans, which can handle heat well. Check their USDA Hardiness Zone to ensure they’re appropriate for your region. Nurseries often label plants by how well they handle specific climates. Opt for healthy, disease-free specimens to ensure better growth and survival.

Soil Preparation and Fertilization

Summer planting demands well-prepared soil for root establishment. Start by loosening the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches. Mix in organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure and nutrient content. Use a slow-release fertilizer during planting to provide a steady nutrient supply. Pay attention to the specific needs of each plant, as some may require more acidic or alkaline conditions.

Watering and Mulching

Watering is crucial during the hot summer months. Newly planted perennials need consistent moisture until they are well-established. Water deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root growth. Mulch around the plants using organic mulch like shredded bark or straw. This helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed growth. Aim for about 2-3 inches of mulch, keeping it away from direct contact with plant stems to prevent rot.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

Summer can bring a host of pests and diseases. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of trouble. Aphids, spider mites, and fungal diseases like powdery mildew are common issues. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed, following label instructions. Promote good air circulation around plants to reduce disease risks. Remove any diseased foliage promptly, and encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs to naturally manage pests.