By S.G. Seals
Arkansas in mid-summer is criminally hot. But there are a lot of plants that can take the heat and still look all pretty and innocent. When the state starts to swelter, turn to these habitual bloomers to take the scorch in stride!
Multi-colored Angelonia are great for spiking interest in the garden. Deer and rabbit resistant, these get up to about 14 inches tall, and in spite of their dainty look they have nerves of steel.
Zinnias come in almost every color and height; they are so bold as to look almost fake. They are tough and perfect repeat offenders, as their seed heads can be severed for replanting.
Some people dismiss vinca as a common suspect you expect in a garden. Some yards have so much of because it returns so willingly in the heat. It can survive in full sun, up against concrete, and the glossy green leaves under the smallish flowers are arresting in their own right. In addition to blue, the new colors—especially the small but mighty red—can stop traffic!
Petite sage is another heat and humidity lover. Try the Ignite Purple. It is an herbaceous perennial that blooms all summer.
Consider lantana, helianthus (BOLO for Sun Believable Brown Eyed Girl!), verbena, Mexican sunflower, calibrachoa (aka Million Bells)—every one of these should be in the lineup for tough plants that can take a summer swelter and still come up swinging!
G. Seals, a Garland County Master Gardener, volunteers with GC Master Gardeners of the UofA Div. of Agriculture, Cooperative Ext. Service. Master Gardeners pool skills and resources to improve home horticulture, stimulate interest in plants and gardening, and encourage beautification. For more info, call 501-623-6841 or email abates@uaex.edu.
