July isn't over yet for planting bedding plants! Garden specialists suggest these 7 varieties that will thrive if sown this month:
July is the perfect time to add some vibrant colour to your garden or outdoor space with the planting of summer bedding plants. Two standout options for this month are petunias and cosmos, both of which are well-suited for the warmer weather and provide a rich source of nectar for pollinating insects.
Petunias are ideal for later-season planting, thriving in sunny, warm conditions typical of July. These fast-growing plants establish themselves quickly and offer a myriad of colours to choose from. With regular watering, petunias will bloom quickly, providing a burst of colour through late summer and into autumn.
Cosmos, on the other hand, are drought-tolerant and continue flowering well into autumn. Their long-lasting blooms offer a source of nectar for bees and butterflies, supporting pollinator health. These resilient plants are perfect for those who may forget to water their garden regularly.
For care, both petunias and cosmos require regular watering to cope with the heat, especially during dry spells. It's essential to provide full sun exposure to maximize blooming and vigor. Removing spent flowers helps promote continued blooming in petunias and other repeat flowering bedding plants.
For the best results, aim for early July to mid-August for planting. As summer progresses, you might also consider autumn bedding options, such as pansies or violas, which can be planted from late August for autumn and winter colour.
Additional July planting options include biennial and perennial flowers like scabious (which can be sown from seed mid to late July for blooms next year) and the propagation of hydrangeas via semi-ripe cuttings taken in July.
In summary, July is a suitable time to plant heat-tolerant summer bedding plants such as petunias and cosmos which require sunny locations, regular watering, and deadheading to promote vibrant, continuous blooms through late summer and autumn. Biennials and perennials can be started from seed or propagated to establish plants for future seasons.
[1] Osteospermum, Marigolds, Cosmos, Begonias, and Impatiens: A Guide to Summer Bedding Plants
[2] Scabious: Growing and Care Guide
[3] Hydrangea: How to Grow Hydrangeas from Cuttings
[4] Fertilising Summer Bedding Plants
[5] Deadheading Flowers: Benefits and Techniques
[1] To bring some vibrant colour to your home-and-garden lifestyle, consider planting the heat-tolerant summer bedding plants like cosmos during July.
[2] If you're looking to diversify your home-and-garden and gardening hobbies, growing scabious, another striking summer bedding plant, from seed mid to late July is a rewarding choice.
