Late Summer Colour: Plants That Still Shine in July

Just when you think the garden has peaked, July steps in to remind us there’s still so much beauty to come. With long, sunny days and warm evenings, late summer is a brilliant time to enjoy bold blooms, colourful foliage, and thriving container displays — and with the right plants, you can keep your garden looking fresh well into August and beyond.

Here are some of our top picks for plants that really shine in July, adding colour, structure, and vibrancy to borders, beds, and pots:

 1. Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan)

These cheerful yellow or orange daisies are perfect for a splash of golden colour. Rudbeckias are sun-loving, low-maintenance, and ideal for adding warmth and height to the garden. They flower from July right through to September.

 2. Salvias

Available in deep purples, vibrant blues, and rich reds, salvias are a magnet for bees and butterflies. Their long flowering period and fragrant foliage make them a must-have for summer borders and patio pots.

 3. Echinacea (Coneflower)

Not only are coneflowers stunning in pink, white, or orange hues, but they’re also drought-tolerant and loved by pollinators. Plant them in full sun and they’ll reward you with weeks of colour and structure

4. Dahlias

From soft pastels to bold, dramatic blooms, dahlias are true summer stars. Whether you're into pom-poms or dinner-plate varieties, these flowers offer big impact from mid-July all the way into early autumn. Just remember to deadhead regularly for continuous flowering.

5. Ornamental Grasses

For movement, texture, and a modern touch, ornamental grasses like Pennisetum and Stipa tenuissima add gentle sway and softness to your planting scheme. Many also develop golden hues that catch the light beautifully in late summer.

6. Coreopsis

With their daisy-like flowers in sunny yellows and rich reds, coreopsis are compact, easy to grow, and flower for months. Perfect for borders or mixed into containers for a relaxed, cottage-garden feel.

Pro Tip: Keep It Going

Deadhead regularly to encourage more blooms.

Feed container plants weekly with a high-potash feed.

Mulch and water deeply during hot weather to help plants thrive through the heat.

 Need a Colour Boost?

Visit us in-store at Flowerland Bourne End for a wide selection of flowering perennials, summer bedding, and container-ready plants that will give your garden that fresh July look. Our team is always happy to help you find the perfect plants for your space!