It is hard to believe that summer is almost over. Now that fall is in site and we know cooler weather is in our future it is time to look to our dry and colorless landscapes and zero in on some late season color. There are lots of perennials that really come to life this time of year. These plants will continue to give you summer color for years to come if properly cared for.
One of my favorites this year has been the Cone flower or Echinacea purpurea. This plant gives large colorfull blooms that last for a few days. With heights ranging from 1' to almost 4', they are sure to find a home somewhere in your garden. They look wonderful tucked in between rocks in a rock garden or bed, or planted in mass to create lovely flower beds. With colors of purple, pinks yellow and even orange they will really spark the landscape.
My other favorite is great for the whimsical garden . Gaillardia Lindheimeri or Wand flower is a must. The wand flower has low growing foliage that stays manageable and sends wonderful dainty flowers up above wiry stems. As the wind blows these flowers dance in the breeze like butterflies. heights range from 1 1/2' to 2 1/2' and comes in rose, hot pink and white. This is a must have for any garden that children will visit.
Salvia is another great late summer flower. Salvia has many forms from compact to very loose , short to tall. With the different foliage and flowering options they can look very different. Colors ranger from blues, purples, pinks to red.
The last and most favorite is Veronica X. This is a powerhouse planting. With its low, compact form it doesn't get out of hand. Sunny border blue will last until frost. Sending up beautiful spires of tiny blue flowers, it blooms nonstop even without dead-heading. Border blue will take very cold temperatures before it vanishes for the winter. It is quick to come back as soon as temperatures warm up.
With so many wonderful plants out there to give you great color, there is something for you. With some thought and a little energy on a cool summer morning you can give your tired summer landscape some new life.
