7 colorful flowers to plant in August for a beautiful fall garden
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If you thought gardening season was winding down, think again.
August is actually a great time to refresh your flower beds and add new blooms that can last well into fall—and in some cases, even survive the winter.
Whether you're replacing spent summer plants or just looking to add late-season color, now is the perfect moment to get your hands dirty.
These seven flowers are resilient, eye-catching, and surprisingly low-maintenance.
With just a little care, they can bring renewed life to your garden in the hottest weeks of the year.
Before planting: Smart strategies for August heat
August heat can be harsh on young plants, so it’s important to water deeply and consistently—especially during the first few weeks.
Experts recommend watering in the early morning to help plants absorb moisture before the sun gets too strong.
And don’t forget to check your USDA planting zone so you choose varieties suited to your climate.
1. Zinnia: Fast-growing and vibrant
Zinnias are a gardener’s favorite for a reason.
They sprout quickly—often blooming within five to seven weeks of planting—and come in a wide range of cheerful colors.
These annuals love the sun and attract bees and butterflies throughout the fall.
Tip: Use well-drained soil and avoid overhead watering to reduce mildew. Deadhead often to keep the blooms coming.
Fun fact: Zinnias are symbols of friendship and lasting affection.
2. Lavender: Elegant and useful
Planting lavender in August allows roots to take hold before winter.
This hardy perennial thrives in sunny, dry locations and rewards you with fragrant purple spikes the following year.
Care tip: Lavender prefers well-drained soil and minimal watering once established.
Bonus use: Dried lavender works well in sachets, teas, and even baked goods.
Also read: Are you overwatering without realizing it? These 4 expert tips can help your plants thrive
3. Arabian Jasmine: Sweet-scented and elegant
This tropical shrub offers creamy-white flowers with a strong fragrance.
Best grown in containers, Arabian jasmine can be brought indoors when temperatures dip.
Tip: Keep the soil moist and place it in a sunny spot. In warmer areas, it can bloom year-round.
Fun fact: It’s the national flower of both the Philippines and Indonesia.
4. Gomphrena: Drought-tolerant and bold
Gomphrena, also known as globe amaranth, is ideal for hot, dry climates.
It features clover-like blooms in shades of purple, pink, and white that hold up well in fresh or dried arrangements.
Tip: Water regularly until established. Then let it thrive on its own.
Extra perk: It’s a favorite of butterflies and works well in bouquets.
Also read: Do your supermarket plants always die? Here’s what experts want you to know
5. Calendula: Cheerful and healing
Calendula brings sunny yellow and orange blooms to your beds and borders.
It grows quickly and continues blooming until the first frost.
Tip: Calendula petals are edible and often used in natural salves and teas. Add them to salads for color and flavor.
Bonus: This plant is a member of the daisy family and thrives in both full sun and partial shade.
6. Mexican Hardy Petunia (Ruellia): Resilient and low-fuss
Despite the name, this isn’t a true petunia—but it’s just as beautiful.
Ruellia boasts purple blooms and tall stems that hold up well in tough conditions.
Tip: Once planted, it requires minimal care. It's perfect for gardeners who want results without daily maintenance.
Wildlife note: Hummingbirds and butterflies are frequent visitors.
Also read: Say goodbye to aphids! Discover 8 plants garden experts swear by for a pest-free summer
7. Cosmos: Light and airy charm
Cosmos are beloved for their feathery foliage and soft, daisy-like blooms.
They grow fast, tolerate poor soil, and require little attention to thrive.
Tip: Deadhead regularly to prolong blooming. Water occasionally and ensure the soil drains well.
Companion benefit: Cosmos attract pollinators and beneficial insects to your vegetable garden.
Also read: Don’t let your garden dry out while you’re on vacation—here’s how to keep it thriving while you’re away
Beyond the plants: A few helpful fall tips
There’s still time to add color, fragrance, and pollinator-friendly blooms to your garden this season.
Whether you're starting fresh or filling in gaps, these August flowers offer beauty and resilience through the fall.
So grab your gloves, pick your favorites, and enjoy the rewards of a garden that keeps on blooming.
Read next: Multiply your houseplants with ease—no green thumb required
Do you enjoy late-season planting? Have any of these flowers brightened up your own backyard in years past? Or do you have your own favorites for keeping a fall garden looking fresh? Share your thoughts, photos, or gardening tricks in the comments!
August is actually a great time to refresh your flower beds and add new blooms that can last well into fall—and in some cases, even survive the winter.
Whether you're replacing spent summer plants or just looking to add late-season color, now is the perfect moment to get your hands dirty.
These seven flowers are resilient, eye-catching, and surprisingly low-maintenance.
With just a little care, they can bring renewed life to your garden in the hottest weeks of the year.
A colorful late-summer garden can still thrive with the right blooms planted in August. Image Source: Pexels / Leigh Patrick.
Before planting: Smart strategies for August heat
August heat can be harsh on young plants, so it’s important to water deeply and consistently—especially during the first few weeks.
Experts recommend watering in the early morning to help plants absorb moisture before the sun gets too strong.
And don’t forget to check your USDA planting zone so you choose varieties suited to your climate.
1. Zinnia: Fast-growing and vibrant
Zinnias are a gardener’s favorite for a reason.
They sprout quickly—often blooming within five to seven weeks of planting—and come in a wide range of cheerful colors.
These annuals love the sun and attract bees and butterflies throughout the fall.
Zinnias bring vibrant color to garden beds and attract butterflies all season long. Image source: YouTube / Epic Gardening.
Tip: Use well-drained soil and avoid overhead watering to reduce mildew. Deadhead often to keep the blooms coming.
Fun fact: Zinnias are symbols of friendship and lasting affection.
2. Lavender: Elegant and useful
Planting lavender in August allows roots to take hold before winter.
This hardy perennial thrives in sunny, dry locations and rewards you with fragrant purple spikes the following year.
Lavender adds soothing fragrance and timeless beauty to sunny garden spots. Image source: YouTube / Epic Gardening.
Care tip: Lavender prefers well-drained soil and minimal watering once established.
Bonus use: Dried lavender works well in sachets, teas, and even baked goods.
Also read: Are you overwatering without realizing it? These 4 expert tips can help your plants thrive
3. Arabian Jasmine: Sweet-scented and elegant
This tropical shrub offers creamy-white flowers with a strong fragrance.
Best grown in containers, Arabian jasmine can be brought indoors when temperatures dip.
Arabian jasmine offers rich scent and delicate blooms perfect for containers or borders. Image source: YouTube / Houseplant Hacks.
Tip: Keep the soil moist and place it in a sunny spot. In warmer areas, it can bloom year-round.
Fun fact: It’s the national flower of both the Philippines and Indonesia.
4. Gomphrena: Drought-tolerant and bold
Gomphrena, also known as globe amaranth, is ideal for hot, dry climates.
It features clover-like blooms in shades of purple, pink, and white that hold up well in fresh or dried arrangements.
Gomphrena’s clover-like blooms add cheerful pops of color and dry beautifully for arrangements. Image source: YouTube / Hooked and Rooted.
Tip: Water regularly until established. Then let it thrive on its own.
Extra perk: It’s a favorite of butterflies and works well in bouquets.
Also read: Do your supermarket plants always die? Here’s what experts want you to know
5. Calendula: Cheerful and healing
Calendula brings sunny yellow and orange blooms to your beds and borders.
It grows quickly and continues blooming until the first frost.
Tip: Calendula petals are edible and often used in natural salves and teas. Add them to salads for color and flavor.
Bonus: This plant is a member of the daisy family and thrives in both full sun and partial shade.
6. Mexican Hardy Petunia (Ruellia): Resilient and low-fuss
Despite the name, this isn’t a true petunia—but it’s just as beautiful.
Ruellia boasts purple blooms and tall stems that hold up well in tough conditions.
Ruellia thrives in tough conditions and rewards with tall stems and vivid purple blooms. Image source: YouTube / When You Garden.
Tip: Once planted, it requires minimal care. It's perfect for gardeners who want results without daily maintenance.
Wildlife note: Hummingbirds and butterflies are frequent visitors.
Also read: Say goodbye to aphids! Discover 8 plants garden experts swear by for a pest-free summer
7. Cosmos: Light and airy charm
Cosmos are beloved for their feathery foliage and soft, daisy-like blooms.
They grow fast, tolerate poor soil, and require little attention to thrive.
Tip: Deadhead regularly to prolong blooming. Water occasionally and ensure the soil drains well.
Companion benefit: Cosmos attract pollinators and beneficial insects to your vegetable garden.
Also read: Don’t let your garden dry out while you’re on vacation—here’s how to keep it thriving while you’re away
Beyond the plants: A few helpful fall tips
- Add mulch to retain soil moisture and protect roots.
- Use a balanced fertilizer for slow, steady growth.
- Track your garden's progress—what worked this year will guide next year’s planting.
There’s still time to add color, fragrance, and pollinator-friendly blooms to your garden this season.
Whether you're starting fresh or filling in gaps, these August flowers offer beauty and resilience through the fall.
So grab your gloves, pick your favorites, and enjoy the rewards of a garden that keeps on blooming.
Read next: Multiply your houseplants with ease—no green thumb required
Do you enjoy late-season planting? Have any of these flowers brightened up your own backyard in years past? Or do you have your own favorites for keeping a fall garden looking fresh? Share your thoughts, photos, or gardening tricks in the comments!
