Facebook Instagram Twitter Youtube Pinterest
Contact Us
Book a FREE Consultation

What to plant in August

August brings a riot of colour to our gardens as we bid farewell to spring and summer bedding plants and welcome the beauty of perennials and summer bulbs.

Two great options for this month are Hydrangea and Hibiscus, both of which you can plant now to add a touch of charm to your outdoor space. Here’s a quick overview of their highlights:

Hydrangea:

  • It’s a late summer bloomer with long-lasting flower heads, perfect for both fresh arrangements and dried flowers.
  • It thrives in light shade but can tolerate some sun if the soil remains moist. You can grow it in the ground or in pots.
  • The flower colour depends on the soil’s chemical balance, with acidic soil giving blue hues and alkaline soil producing pinks. You can even modify the colour with blueing compounds or ericaceous soil.
  • Hydrangeas in pots can be planted any time of the year; just make sure to water them well for successful establishment.
  • Protect new spring growth from frost to avoid minor leaf damage.
  • Please handle the foliage with care, as it may cause skin allergies. And remember, Hydrangeas are mildly toxic if ingested.

Hibiscus:

  • These hardy hibiscus, specifically the Hibiscus Syriacus variety, may look exotic but are well-suited for sunny spots in the UK. They’re easy to care for.
  • From August until the first frost, they grace us with large, single trumpet-like flowers in various colours.
  • Plant them in well-draining, moist soil, and choose a warm, sheltered location with plenty of sunlight. Pot cultivation is also an option; just remember to repot every two to three years in spring.
  • They are deciduous, losing their leaves during winter.
  • You can prune older plants to shape them and improve airflow, but if they’re thriving, let them be.
  • If space is limited, consider a tropical hibiscus as a delightful houseplant alternative, blooming from May to October.

These worthwhile additions will work hard to enhance your garden’s allure in August. If you have any questions or need more details, feel free to ask. Happy gardening!

Further reading this month: follow the links to
The art of enjoying your garden
Our suggested garden jobs for August
Creating an Outdoor Lifestyle