gardening

Enhance Your Summer Garden

With summer being in full swing, it’s the perfect time to breathe new life into your garden. Adding vibrant flowers not only enhances the visual appeal but also brings joy and a sense of tranquility to your outdoor space. Today I’ll be exploring some beautiful flowers that thrive in the Vancouver climate and are readily available to elevate your summer garden experience.

1. Rhododendrons

Known for their stunning blooms, rhododendrons are a popular choice among garden enthusiasts in Vancouver. With varieties that range from soft pastel colors to bold and vibrant hues, these hardy shrubs bring a burst of color to any garden. Look for varieties such as ‘Nova Zembla’ with its striking red flowers or ‘PJM Elite’ with its clusters of lavender blooms.

2. Summer-flowering Bulbs

Add a touch of elegance to your garden with summer-flowering bulbs. Dahlias, gladioli, and lilies are excellent choices for Vancouver’s climate. With their large and vibrant blooms, these bulbs create focal points and provide a captivating display of color. Look for dahlia varieties like ‘Bishop of Llandaff’ with its rich red flowers or ‘Café au Lait’ with its creamy peachy-pink petals.

3. Salvia

Salvias are versatile and resilient plants that thrive in Vancouver’s climate. Their tall spikes of vibrant flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them an excellent choice for eco-friendly gardens. Look for Salvia varieties such as ‘May Night’ with its deep purple blooms or ‘Hot Lips’ with its unique red and white bi-colored flowers.

4. Geraniums

Geraniums are a classic choice for summer gardens in Vancouver. Known for their long-lasting blooms and rich foliage, these plants add a pop of colour throughout the summer months. Choose from a variety of geranium cultivars like ‘Rozanne’ with its stunning blue-violet flowers or ‘Fire Queen’ with its vibrant red blooms.

5. Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are loved for their showy, colourful flowers that transform garden landscapes. These hardy shrubs are perfect for Vancouver’s climate, providing a beautiful display with minimal care. Look for hydrangea varieties such as ‘Endless Summer’ with its large mophead flowers or ‘Limelight’ with its unique chartreuse blooms.

6. Coneflowers

Coneflowers, also known as Echinacea, are a summer favorite that adds a splash of color to any garden. These daisy-like flowers come in various shades, including vibrant purples, pinks, and whites. Varieties like ‘Magnus’ with its deep pink petals or ‘White Swan’ with its pure white blooms are sure to brighten up your garden.

Remember to provide these flowers with the proper care, including regular watering and well-draining soil, to ensure their longevity. With these beautiful and resilient options, you can create a breathtaking summer garden!

Happy gardening!