As August ushers in the promise of spring, our gardens begin to come alive with a burst of vibrant colours and textures. This month, we spotlight four stunning plants that are in season and ready to transform your garden into a blooming paradise: 

Geraldton Waxes

Care Tips:

• Light: Geraldton Waxes thrive in full sun in areas.  They tolerate light frost inland if they are planted in a warm spot and protected until established.
• Soil: They prefer well-draining, sandy soils.
• Water: Once established, they require minimal water. However, young plants need regular watering for the first two years after planting. Potted plants should be watered regularly.

Uses in the Garden:

Geraldton Waxes add value to mixed shrub borders, providing clouds of delicate, waxy flowers from early winter right through into summer.  They are great background plants and also do well in pots and containers.  The long-lasting flowers are ideal for use as cut flowers. They are excellent for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Dianthus

Care Tips:

• Light: Dianthus flourish in full sun (at least 6 hours of sun per day).
• Soil: They prefer well-drained, fertile soil. Adding compost can improve soil quality.
• Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water at the base to avoid wetting the foliage.
• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.

Uses in the Garden: 

Dianthus, in their gay frilly dresses, are guaranteed to brighten any summer garden and cope well with heat and rain. These old-fashioned charmers with plain green or blue-green leaves and single or double white, pink, claret, scarlet or rose flowers, with plain or fringed edgings to the petals, are wonderful subjects for pots, along pathways and in the front of borders. Their compact growth makes them ideal for small spaces. Mix them with other perennials for a delightful cottage garden look.

Foxgloves

Care Tips:

• Light: Foxgloves prefer partial shade but can grow in full sun if the soil remains moist.  But in areas where it gets hot very early in summer, its best to plant them in a cool position. 
• Soil: They thrive in rich, well-drained soil. Mulching helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool.
• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods.
• Support: Tall varieties may need staking to prevent them from toppling over.

Uses in the Garden:

Foxgloves are known for their striking, tall flower spikes that add vertical interest to garden beds. They are ideal for creating a focal point in cottage gardens, woodland gardens, or mixed borders.  Plant them in groups for a dramatic display or mix with other perennials for a layered effect.

Delphiniums

Care Tips:

• Light: Delphiniums thrive in full sun but need some afternoon shade in hot climates.
• Soil: They prefer rich, well-drained soil. Incorporate plenty of organic matter to improve soil fertility.
• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
• Support: Tall varieties require staking to support their heavy flower spikes.

Uses in the Garden:

Delphiniums bring a regal elegance to any garden with their tall, showy flower spikes. They are perfect for back borders, adding height and a splash of colour. Delphiniums are excellent in cottage gardens, mixed perennial beds, and as cut flowers for stunning floral arrangements. Pair them with other tall perennials like foxgloves or plant them against a garden wall or fence for support.

DISCLAIMER:  The information presented on this website is intended solely as a general guide. We neither endorse specific plant varieties over others nor claim expertise in stock performance. All information is believed to be accurate, based on private inquiries and experiences, and is provided in good faith. Blackwood’s, including its employees, disclaims any responsibility for harm, loss, cost, or damage arising from the use or reliance upon any information on this website, especially if any part of the information proves to be inaccurate or incomplete. Please note that the displayed photos are not representative of current stock but are used for illustrative purposes only.