August Planting Guide: Best Flowers and Shrubs to Add Now

As the summer sun blazes on, many gardeners assume it’s too late to add new life to their landscapes. In reality, August is an excellent time to plant certain flowers and shrubs that thrive in the heat and set your garden up for a colorful finale this season—and a strong start for next year. With the right choices and a few smart planting techniques, you can enjoy vibrant blooms and lush foliage even as summer winds down.

1. Heat-Tolerant Annuals for Instant Color

If your flower beds are looking tired or sparse, heat-loving annuals are your best friend in August. Zinnias, marigolds, and cosmos are all resilient choices that bloom continuously until the first frost. These flowers not only provide a burst of color but also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting the health of your garden ecosystem.

When planting annuals in late summer, look for healthy, well-established plants at your local nursery. Water them deeply after planting and continue to water regularly to help roots establish quickly in the warm soil.

2. Late-Blooming Perennials for Season-Long Beauty

Certain perennials are at their best in late summer. Black-eyed Susans, Russian sage, and coneflowers withstand August’s intensity and offer long-lasting color. These perennials are low-maintenance and will return stronger each year, making them a smart investment for your landscape.

To plant perennials in August:

Loosen the soil and mix in compost for added nutrients.
Space plants according to their mature size.
Water thoroughly and mulch around the base to conserve moisture.

3. Shrubs That Shine in Late Summer

August is also a great time to add structure to your garden with hardy shrubs. Hydrangeas (especially panicle types), crape myrtles, and butterfly bushes are excellent choices that establish quickly in warm soil. These shrubs provide beautiful blooms now and set the stage for years of seasonal interest.

When planting shrubs:

Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper.
Place the shrub so the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
Backfill, water deeply, and mulch to retain moisture.

4. Tips for Successful August Planting

Water new additions deeply and regularly during their first few weeks, as summer heat can quickly dry out the soil.
Mulch around the base of new plants to help conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Avoid fertilizing immediately after planting; let roots settle first, then feed lightly in early fall if needed.

5. Plan for Fall and Beyond

Consider adding ornamental grasses or sedum for texture and late-season color that lasts into autumn. Planning ahead with the right plant choices ensures your landscape will look great now and be ready to burst into life next spring.

Expert Help When You Need It

With the right approach, August can be a time of renewal in your landscape. Not sure where to start? DK Landscaping’s team can help you select, install, and care for the perfect flowers and shrubs for your yard—so you can enjoy beautiful results, season after season.

Tagged: August planting, curb appeal, DK Landscaping, flower garden, garden design, heat-tolerant plants, landscaping tips, planting guide, shrubs, summer flowers