7 Kinds of Garden Bed Plants Thriving in High Temperatures
Want to keep your garden vibrant and flourishing even during scorching summers? Check out this guide to discover the best garden bed plants that thrive in high temperatures!
Summer brings sunshine and warmth, but excessive heat can stress certain plants. Fortunately, there are several types of garden bed plants that can thrive even in hot weather. Explore seven of the most heat-resistant garden bed plants - excellent choices to bring life (and beauty!) to your space without worrying about them wilting due to the heat. Learn how to keep your garden oasis vibrant and healthy throughout the season!
How hot is too hot for your potted plants?
Hot summer days are perfect for enjoying the outdoors in the sun. Unfortunately, the same heat that makes us feel good can also damage your potted plants. It's important to know how much heat is too much for your beloved plants so you can take measures to protect them from potential harm.
Most plants thrive between 59 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit, but when the thermometer stays above 90 degrees Fahrenheit for an extended period, they show signs of stress.
Wilting, bolting (rapid flowering and seed production), leaf scorch, dry leaves, and leaf drop are common examples of plant heat stress. Many plants can survive temperatures above 104 degrees Fahrenheit, but it damages their health, and they won't reach their full potential.
When temperatures start to climb, you can help protect your plants. Move them away from direct sunlight, provide more water than usual, and cover them or use shade cloth around them. If it's boiling outside, a wise move is to bring smaller garden bed plants indoors until the temperature drops.
But for those in particularly dry climates, consider planting some heat-friendly varieties.
Flowering Plants
If you live in an area with extremely hot summers, choose flowering plants that can survive in these conditions. Luckily, there are several garden bed plants that not only thrive in high temperatures but also produce vibrant flowers!
Coneflowers
Coneflowers are cold-hardy plants, making them ideal for garden bed gardening in hot summer climates. Standing 1 to 2 feet tall, their delicate shades of pale pink to light purple petals make them an excellent addition to your outdoor space. They bloom from [specific months not provided], attracting butterflies and bees.
In summer, check the soil moisture of coneflowers by inserting your finger about 1 inch below the soil surface. Water if it's dry. The goal is to water this plant about every 10 to [specific number not provided] days. They also enjoy partial or full sun exposure (at least four hours daily) and well-draining soil. Deadheading them promptly after blooming can extend the flowering season. However, if you wait until the end of winter, the plants will reward you with seed heads that attract goldfinches to your garden!
Sunflowers
If you want to add some height and vibrant colors to your container garden, sunflowers are a great choice. Dwarf varieties like "Lemon Queen," "Sunspot," and "Teddy Bear" reach 3 to 5 feet in height in garden beds and produce large, cheerful flowers that will put a smile on your face!
While sunflowers enjoy six to eight hours of sunlight daily, they can also tolerate partial shade. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining, and water only when the top 1 to 2 inches of the soil are dry. Additionally, adding mulch around sunflower plants helps maintain temperature levels while aiding soil moisture retention during drought periods.
Sunflowers are tall and make an excellent background for shorter plants like marigolds.
Marigolds
Marigolds come in a variety of colors, from orange and yellow to red. If you're looking for a sun-loving, easy-to-care-for garden bed plant, they are a perfect choice. These heat-loving flowers bloom from midsummer to fall, making them an ideal addition to your patio or balcony.
To thrive in pots, place them in an area with full sun exposure daily (six to eight hours) and water when the top 1/4 inch of the soil is dry. As with all garden bed plants, ensure the pots have good drainage to avoid waterlogged soil that can lead to root rot.
Marigolds light up your space with their cheerful colors. If you want to attract more pollinators into your garden, marigolds are a great option.
Tip: Marigolds make great companion plants as they help deter and repel pests in the garden!
Firebush
This stunning shrub is an excellent choice for hot regions as it can withstand full sun or partial shade and thrives in well-draining soil. It is an ideal pick for USDA zones 9 to 12.
The best part of adding firebush to your garden is that it offers a long season of interest when planted in garden beds. From late spring to the first frost, this low-maintenance shrub produces beautiful, fiery red flowers that attract butterflies and birds. When the flowers fade, they turn into attractive red or black berries, making them appealing to songbirds.
Firebush is heat and drought-tolerant, so you don't have to worry about under-watering or giving it too much sun exposure. When caring for your firebush, check the top 2 to 3 inches of soil before watering with your finger. If the soil feels dry, give the garden bed a thorough soaking until water comes out of the bottom drainage holes.
Vegetables and Herbs
For those who enjoy a heady garden bed of vegetables and herbs, certain plants are perfect for small and dry spaces.
Salvia
Salvia, also known as sage, is a versatile garden bed plant that can flower in hot, sunny conditions. Additionally, this drought-tolerant plant attracts hummingbirds, bees, butterflies, and various moths to your outdoor sanctuary.
Once established, salvia only needs about 1 inch of water every 1 to [specific number not provided] days, which may take about two years. Fortunately, these hardy flowers love at least six hours of sunlight daily - perfect for those scorching summers!
The vibrant flowers come in shades of blue, red, purple, white, and yellow.
Tomatoes
If you live in a hot climate, consider growing tomatoes in garden beds - they love the heat!
Tomatoes need at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to grow well, so place the pots in a sunny spot. Additionally, choose the right soil mix; typically, regular potting soil with added compost or well-aged manure works best. Make sure the pot has enough drainage holes to avoid excess water build-up.
In hot weather, you'll also need to provide sufficient water for your tomato plants. Water deeply when the top 2 to 4 inches of soil feel dry, and check them daily when it's scorching outside. You may need to water them two to three times a week, giving them 1 to 2 inches of water each time, during hot weather.
BasilĀ
Basil is a great garden bed plant for those living in warm climates and wanting to enjoy the fresh herb flavor while embracing the summer heat.
When choosing potting soil and garden beds for basil, look for varieties with good drainage to help prevent root waterlogging or drying out. Also, select an area that receives six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily to ensure your basil plants thrive. If you can find a spot with afternoon shade, even better.
In terms of watering, your basil plants need at least 1/2 inch of water per week to thrive, more if it's hot. When temperatures rise above 100 degrees Fahrenheit in summer, if possible, move them to a shaded spot. This helps keep your basil plants looking green and healthy throughout the summer!
Sizzle Up Your Summer Garden!
Whether you're looking for colorful flowers or delectable herbs and vegetables, many plants can thrive in hot climates, offering a great way to bring some life to your yard this year.
Don't keep this valuable information to yourself - share it with your friends and family so they can join in on the fun of creating a beautiful outdoor space this summer!