Some plants perform best when the heat is on; Crape Myrtles revel in the sun and heat. They are summer show-offs. In full bloom this beautiful shrub/tree radiates color, sporting a full head of crinkled, “crepe” like blooms in various shades, and there are more talents to this tree.
Crape myrtles are drought tolerant once established, but that does not mean they want the water turned off. New trees require even moisture.
Earlier in the year, Crape Myrtles give another show when the new foliage breaks with a coppery red tone; and as the season progresses, the bark often splits to reveal a spring pink undercoat. In autumn the handsome green foliage of many varieties changes to either red-orange or maroon before dropping to the ground.
It is, however, the mass of summer blooms, which makes Crape Myrtle worth growing. They range in colors from white, pink, lavender, and purple to almost brilliant red. If it’s white you like, ask for Natchez. Pink Velour produces a hot pink flower.
Another choice is the brilliant red crape myrtle called Dynamite. It’s cherry red flowers, crimson buds, and leaves will leave no doubt that it will create an eye-catching display in your garden. As the red flowers age, they will create an explosion of color.
If powdery mildew has been a problem in the past on your crape myrtle, fear no longer! These mildew resistant varieties are available now in good supply. Muskogee has a lavender pink blossom and produces the most brilliant fall colors of scarlet, orange and yellow. Tuscarora is more upright and produces coral-red blooms in huge flower trusses.
For smaller spaces, enjoy some of the smaller crape myrtle bushes and patio trees. Any of these varieties will add an abundance of color to your summertime landscape. We have many Crape Myrtles in a variety of sizes.
We have gorgeous bougainvilleas to train up a south or west-facing wall that will give you sheets of color all summer long. Choose from a variety of tropical colors. Don’t forget to ask for planting directions as they have sensitive root systems and will need frost protection in winter.
Bring shades of Hawaii to your plantings with glossy leaved tropical hibiscus, again in lots of vibrant colors like red, orange and pink. We have these both in bush and patio tree forms, to give instant height to your garden. Plant these in a protected spot in the garden as they require shelter from the frost and wind. Hibiscus love sun and heat. They bloom late spring through the fall.
A deciduous, frost hardy member of the Hibiscus family is the Rose of Sharon. It produces stunning flowers in the summer and makes an excellent single stemmed tree as well as a large shrub.
Zinnias make a brilliant addition to the summer flower garden, loved by novice and expert gardeners alike. The pollinators love them too! They bloom effortlessly from summer to frost, and the more you cut, the more they branch and bloom.
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Protect your cherry crop! Prevent wormy fruit. Start spraying with Captain Jack’s spinosad weekly when fruit begins to change from green to strawberry color.
Flowers in reds and yellows provide a nectar source for butterflies.
Butterflies and hummingbirds take nectar from the white and purple flowers. Other birds feed on the seeds in the fall.
Fragrant purple flowers attract butterflies for nectar.
Butterflies take nectar from the small pink flowers that bloom from August to September.
Red, white, rosy purple flowers provide nectar for butterflies.
This, and in fact, most sages are hummingbird attractants. Blooming for over half the year, Autumn sage is found in shades of red and pink.
Can almost bloom its heart out. May remain in bloom 6 or more months. 2-3′ high and wide. Attracts hummers and butterflies.
Easy to grow, strap leaves are a nice contrast. Flowers are 2-3′ and attract both hummingbirds and butterflies.
