"Anyone visiting a local garden centre this long weekend is sure to be amazed at the variety and colour of today’s plant varieties," says Denis Flanagan, public relations manager, Landscape Ontario. “But plants nowadays are also made to be tough, and breeders have developed some superstars to endure the heat of summer.”
Whether you are in the know or not, a trip to your local garden centre will connect you with knowledgeable staff who can certainly share their knowledge on what’s new, what’s hot and what’s in style this season.
Landscape Ontario recommends the following plants for those soon-to-be, hot days of summer:
- Lantanas thrive in the heat of the summer.
They are drought tolerant, and will attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
Available in shades of red, yellow, pink and orange. Grow in full sun and can
be used in containers or flower beds. A new cultivar this year is Luscious®
Marmalade lantana..
- Sunpatiens® are an alternative to impatiens
that are susceptible to downy mildew. These vigorous impatiens thrive in sun and
shade, heat, rain and humidity. Nonstop blooming from spring until fall.
Suitable for use in containers or flower beds. Available in white, pink, shell
pink and scarlet.
- The trend for fantastic foliage is stronger than ever, with Rex begonias leading the way with colour and texture. New Jurassic Rex begonias have eye-catching colours and leaf patterns. Begonias need protection for the sun, but this makes them ideal plants to add colour and interest to a dark area in your garden, or in a container in a shady spot on your deck or patio.
With so many anxious gardeners out buying plants this coming weekend, Flanagan advises people to be patient and to plan ahead. “If you have a particular plant or a particular colour in mind, it’s a good idea to have a plan B just in case,” he says. Some newer varieties sell out quickly due to high demand. “It’s a great exercise too,” adds Flanagan, “because it allows you to exercise both your gardening muscles — your mind and your body.”
Your best source to find local garden centres, contractors and other specialties is at www.landscapeontario.com. “Find a Company” by searching a city, postal code, or specialty, etc.
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About Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association
Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association is one of the most vibrant associations of its kind, comprised of over 2,000 members, ten sector groups and nine local chapters. Its trade mission is to promote the horticulture industry in Ontario, and its public mission is to promote the joys and benefits of green spaces. For more information on the association and Green for Life, visit: www.landscapeontario.com
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