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Creating a vibrant and colorful garden in Zone 7 is achievable by selecting the right flowering plants. Zone 7 offers a moderate climate, allowing a diverse range of plants to thrive. Here are the top 10 flowering plants suited for this zone, along with essential care tips to keep your garden blooming all season.
1. Coneflower (Echinacea)
Coneflowers are hardy perennials that bloom from summer to fall. They attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them a garden favorite. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Deadheading spent blooms encourages continuous flowering.
2. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
Black-eyed Susans are vibrant yellow flowers that thrive in full sun. They are drought-tolerant and require minimal maintenance. Regular watering during dry spells and deadheading will promote prolonged blooms.
3. Daylilies (Hemerocallis)
Daylilies are versatile and easy to grow. They produce large, colorful flowers from late spring to summer. They adapt well to various soil types but prefer full sun. Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigor.
4. Coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.)
Coreopsis offers cheerful, daisy-like flowers that bloom from early summer to fall. They are drought-tolerant and prefer full sun. Deadheading will encourage more blooms and keep the plant looking tidy.
5. Salvia (Salvia nemorosa)
Salvia provides spikes of purple, blue, or red flowers that attract hummingbirds and bees. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Cutting back after blooming encourages a second flush of flowers.
6. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Lavender is valued for its fragrant purple flowers and aromatic foliage. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Avoid overwatering and prune annually to maintain shape and health.
7. Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum x superbum)
Shasta daisies produce large white blooms with yellow centers from early summer to fall. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Deadheading prolongs flowering and keeps plants looking fresh.
8. Bee Balm (Monarda didyma)
Bee balm features vibrant red, pink, or purple flowers that attract pollinators. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Regular deadheading encourages continuous blooms.
9. Blanket Flower (Gaillardia spp.)
Blanket flowers are drought-tolerant perennials with striking red and yellow blooms. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Cutting back after the first flush of flowers promotes a second bloom.
10. Azalea (Rhododendron spp.)
Azaleas provide stunning spring blooms in shades of pink, white, or red. They thrive in partial shade and acidic, well-drained soil. Mulching and regular watering help maintain healthy plants.
Additional Care Tips for Zone 7 Gardens
- Plant in well-drained soil with appropriate sunlight exposure.
- Water regularly, especially during dry periods, but avoid overwatering.
- Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
- Divide perennials every few years to maintain vigor.
- Prune in late winter or early spring to shape and promote healthy growth.
With the right plant choices and proper care, your Zone 7 garden can be a vibrant, colorful haven throughout the growing season. Experiment with these top flowering plants to create a dynamic and inviting outdoor space.