What to plant in August – Hydrangea and Hibiscus

August should be a time of colour and exuberance in the garden.  Your spring and summer bedding has probably done its job now and is being overtaken by your perennials and summer bulbs coming into flower.  Two of our August favourites are Hydrangea and Hibiscus: both can be planted now to give extra zing to your outdoor space.  Here are their highlights.

 Hydrangea

• Great for late summer colour, the flower heads last well and are great for drying and flower arranging.
• Best grown in light shade but will tolerate a sunny spot if the soil is moist. Can be grown directly in the ground or in pots.
• Responds to the chemical balance of your soil: blue colours develop in acidic soil and pinks in alkaline. You can use blueing compounds or plant in ericaceous soil to influence the colour yourself.
• Hydrangeas bought in pots can be planted at any time of the year; water in well to help them establish.
• Protect new spring growth from frost to prevent leaf damage; this isn’t usually serious but can look a little unsightly.
• Beware: skin allergies may be aggravated by contact with the foliage so wear gloves. Hydrangea are mildly toxic to humans if eaten.

Hibiscus

• Hardy hibiscus (Hibiscus Syriacus) look exotic but will grow happily in the UK in a sunny spot. They are trouble-free and need little maintenance.
• Typically flower from August through to the first frosts. They have large, single trumpet-like flowers which come in a variety of colours.
• Plant in moist but well-drained soil in a warm and sunny spot, ideally sheltered from winds. They do well in pots; repot in spring every two-three years to keep it healthy.
• They are deciduous so will lose all their leaves over winter.
• If necessary, prune older plants to keep in shape and encourage air circulation through the centre. If not necessary, leave it alone!
• If you don’t have the space for a hardy hibiscus, consider a tropical (tender) one as a great houseplant instead. (They can be in flower from May to October).

We have a full range of Hydrangea and Hibiscus now in store come and choose yours today. 

If you've time for more than some planting this month, find our August garden jobs advice here.