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As the warm days of summer pass by, it might seem like the growing season is winding down. But August is actually a perfect time to start planning and planting for a vibrant spring garden. A little effort now can extend your gardening season into the cooler months, keeping your garden lively and colorful year-round.
Late summer is an excellent time to sow seeds and plant seedlings that thrive in the cooler temperatures of fall, winter, and early spring. Many flowers are well-suited to these conditions, with some even benefiting from the light frosts of early autumn. By planning your fall and spring garden in August, you can take advantage of the still-warm soil, which encourages faster seed germination and helps seedlings establish themselves more quickly.
By getting a head start on the next growing season, you’ll set the stage for a garden full of blooms as soon as spring arrives.
1. Alyssum
Alyssum is a hardy annual, and seeds sown now will be ready to put on a showy display of tiny white blooms as soon as spring arrives.
2. Calendula
Calendula seeds sown in August will produce a glorious display of early spring blooms, ideal for pollinating insects as they emerge from hibernation.
3. Clarkia
Clarkia is a gorgeous wildflower that is super easy to grow. Direct sow clumps of seeds are now growing and will bloom in late spring and early summer.
4. Cornflowers
Cornflowers tolerate cold temperatures well and, if sown now, will produce gorgeous blue flowers in early spring.
5. Pansies
Pansies produce a delightful, showy display of color through fall and winter in mild climates. Seeds will germinate quickly if started in modules in August, and they will be ready for transplanting as the heat of summer subsides.
6. Snapdragons
A cottage garden favorite, summer-sown snapdragons will produce lovely tall spikes of blooms to herald the arrival of spring.
7. Violas
Violas are one of the earliest flowers of spring, and sowing seeds now will guarantee a beautiful carpet of these delicate blooms as soon as winter comes to an end.
19 Stunning Red Flowers to Add Bold Color to Your Garden
Adding red flowers to your garden introduces vibrant pops of color, creating a warm and lively atmosphere. Here’s a list of 19 varieties to brighten your garden, bringing in the perfect touch of spring and summer cheer.
19 Stunning Red Flowers to Add Bold Color to Your Garden
17 Colorful Plants to Grow for Fresh Flower Arrangements
For those looking to have a continuous supply of fresh flowers for stunning arrangements, consider planting these 24 colorful varieties. They will thrive in your garden and, in some cases, provide beautiful blooms year after year.
