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Refreshing Your Summer Garden

Shelley Dillard
Propagator

In July, after the flush of spring blooms, it is hard to ignore the holes in the garden. They can be the result of many causes. Some plants mysteriously just don’t come back. What a disappointment! Unfortunately, after all, the term perennial does not translate into “forever”. Some plants, like peonies and poppies and iris DO live for many years; but others, such as columbines and geraniums, do not last as long. Shrubs die as well, leaving a big hole. Perhaps you have taken out a plant and you haven’t decided what to replace it with. Without proper mulching, many plants heave in the winter and the roots dry out. Or, truth be told, you’ve stepped on it in your zeal to get a head start on cleaning out the beds. (I’m a professional; I’ve NEVER done that!)

Now is the time to stop obsessing and perk up the garden. One of my favorite ways is to pick one or two annuals and plant them in the empty spaces. Some good choices for full sun are the wonderful Profusion Zinnias—these spread and do not get powdery mildew like many zinnias. They are in the cream to orange end of the spectrum. I also love the small Flowering Tobaccos (Nicotiana). They are found in green and white, and lilac and pink, and can take some shade. The annual salvias such as the Lady series or Victoria are also great fillers for large spaces. Cannas, Elephant Ears, or Bananas can add real drama. For shade, there are impatiens, begonias, and torenias.

My favorite way to dramatically fill those gaping holes is to take plants I have been growing in containers and place them right in the garden. The height of the pot really makes them stand out. Don’t forget to water them! I thought this was my own fabulous idea for the ultimate lazy gardening until I read about it in a current gardening magazine. Someone is stealing my ideas!

Remember, your garden should provide enjoyment. Fill the holes with annuals and plan for next year. Your garden will always wait for you.