Shrubs for a Beautiful August Garden
August is a great time to enjoy the beauty of shrubs in your garden. They provide structure, color, scent, and wildlife value, making them a valuable addition to any landscape.
Evergreen Shrubs for Year-Round Interest
If you’re looking for an evergreen shrub that will add beauty to your garden all year round, consider common myrtle (Myrtus communis). This Mediterranean native has stunning, scented flowers and aromatic foliage.
Late-Blooming Beauties
For a burst of color in late summer, plant hardy hibiscus (Hibiscus syriacus). These shrubs come into leaf around June and bloom from July to August. They’re easy to grow and come in a variety of colors, including ‘Woodbridge’ (blue), ‘Blue Bird’ (lilac), and ‘Lilac Queen’ (lilac with rust centers).
Mediterranean Charm
Cotton lavender (Santolina) is another great choice for a late-summer blooming shrub. It has gray-green foliage and produces yellow flowers from July to August. Plant it in a hot, sunny spot for best results.
Classic and Fragrant: Roses
Roses are a classic choice for any garden, and there are many varieties that bloom in August. Deadheading (removing spent blooms) will encourage more flowers.
Pollinator Paradise: Bluebeard
Also known as Caryopteris, bluebeard is an attractive and well-behaved shrub that blooms in late summer and August. Its blue flowers and silvery foliage make it a standout in the garden, and it’s a favorite of bees and butterflies.
Planting and Care Tips
While summer is not the ideal time to plant shrubs, you can do so in late autumn to mid-spring. Choose a spot with well-drained soil and water regularly, especially during dry periods. Prune shrubs after they bloom to maintain their shape and encourage new growth.
With these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of shrubs in your garden all season long!
