What Flowers Can You Plant in August, and Why Do They Make the Moon Smile?

August is a month of transition, where the warmth of summer begins to wane, and the first hints of autumn start to creep in. For gardeners, this is a crucial time to plant flowers that will bloom in the fall or even early winter. But what flowers can you plant in August? The answer is surprisingly varied, and the reasons behind each choice are as colorful as the blooms themselves. Moreover, why do these flowers make the moon smile? Let’s dive into the world of August planting and explore the possibilities.

1. Pansies: The Cheerful Faces of Fall

Pansies are one of the most popular flowers to plant in August. These hardy little plants can withstand cooler temperatures and will often bloom well into the fall. Pansies come in a wide range of colors, from deep purples and blues to bright yellows and oranges, making them a versatile choice for any garden. Their cheerful “faces” are said to bring joy to anyone who sees them, and perhaps even to the moon, which might smile down on their vibrant hues.

Why Pansies?

• Cool-Weather Tolerance: Pansies thrive in cooler temperatures, making them perfect for late summer and early fall planting.
• Long Blooming Period: With proper care, pansies can bloom from late summer through early winter.
• Versatility: They can be planted in garden beds, containers, or even hanging baskets.

2. Chrysanthemums: The Stars of Autumn

Chrysanthemums, or “mums,” are another excellent choice for August planting. These flowers are synonymous with autumn and are often used to decorate homes and gardens during the fall season. Mums come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, orange, and white, and their dense, bushy growth makes them a great choice for adding texture to your garden.

Why Chrysanthemums?

• Fall Bloomers: Mums are known for their late-season blooms, which can last well into November.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, mums require minimal care, making them a great choice for busy gardeners.
• Symbolism: In many cultures, chrysanthemums symbolize longevity and joy, which might explain why the moon seems to smile upon them.

3. Asters: The Dainty Dancers of the Garden

Asters are delicate, daisy-like flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall. They come in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, blue, and white, and their star-shaped blooms add a touch of elegance to any garden. Asters are also known for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them a great choice for eco-conscious gardeners.

Why Asters?

• Pollinator-Friendly: Asters are a favorite among bees and butterflies, helping to support local ecosystems.
• Late-Season Color: Their blooms add a splash of color to gardens that might otherwise be winding down for the season.
• Mythology: In Greek mythology, asters were created from the tears of the goddess Astraea, who wept for the lack of stars on Earth. Perhaps the moon smiles upon them as a nod to their celestial origins.

4. Sedum: The Stonecrop with Star Power

Sedum, also known as stonecrop, is a succulent that blooms in late summer and early fall. Its thick, fleshy leaves store water, making it incredibly drought-tolerant. Sedum flowers come in shades of pink, red, and white, and their star-shaped blooms are a favorite among pollinators.

Why Sedum?

• Drought Tolerance: Sedum is perfect for gardeners in dry climates or those who want low-maintenance plants.
• Pollinator Magnet: Like asters, sedum attracts bees and butterflies, adding life to your garden.
• Architectural Interest: The plant’s structure adds texture and interest to garden beds, even when not in bloom.

5. Goldenrod: The Misunderstood Beauty

Goldenrod is often mistaken for a weed, but this hardy perennial is a valuable addition to any garden. Its bright yellow blooms appear in late summer and early fall, adding a burst of color to the landscape. Goldenrod is also a favorite among pollinators, making it an excellent choice for eco-friendly gardens.

Why Goldenrod?

• Pollinator Support: Goldenrod is a crucial food source for bees and butterflies in the fall.
• Low Maintenance: This plant thrives in poor soil and requires little care once established.
• Myth-Busting: Contrary to popular belief, goldenrod does not cause hay fever—it’s ragweed that’s the culprit. The moon might smile upon goldenrod for its resilience and misunderstood beauty.

6. Russian Sage: The Silver Sentinel

Russian sage is a tall, airy perennial with silvery foliage and lavender-blue flowers. It blooms from late summer into fall and is known for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soil. Russian sage adds height and texture to garden beds and is a favorite among pollinators.

Why Russian Sage?

• Drought Tolerance: Like sedum, Russian sage is perfect for dry climates or low-maintenance gardens.
• Architectural Interest: Its tall, wispy stems add vertical interest to garden designs.
• Fragrance: The plant’s aromatic foliage adds another layer of sensory appeal to your garden.

7. Ornamental Kale and Cabbage: The Edible Decorators

While not technically flowers, ornamental kale and cabbage are often planted in August for their striking foliage. These plants come in shades of purple, pink, and white, and their ruffled leaves add texture and color to fall gardens. They’re also edible, making them a fun and functional addition to your garden.

Why Ornamental Kale and Cabbage?

• Cool-Weather Thrivers: These plants actually improve in color and texture as temperatures drop.
• Edible Beauty: While they’re grown primarily for their looks, you can also eat them, adding a practical element to their beauty.
• Unique Appeal: Their unusual appearance makes them a conversation starter in any garden.

8. Marigolds: The Guardians of the Garden

Marigolds are a classic choice for August planting, especially in vegetable gardens. These bright orange and yellow flowers are known for their ability to repel pests, making them a natural form of pest control. Marigolds bloom from late summer into fall and are easy to grow, making them a favorite among beginner gardeners.

Why Marigolds?

• Pest Repellent: Marigolds are known to deter nematodes and other garden pests.
• Easy to Grow: These hardy flowers are perfect for novice gardeners.
• Symbolism: In many cultures, marigolds are associated with the sun and are used in celebrations and rituals. Perhaps the moon smiles upon them as a celestial counterpart.

9. Snapdragons: The Dragon’s Delight

Snapdragons are a favorite among gardeners for their unique, dragon-shaped blooms. These flowers come in a wide range of colors and can bloom from late summer into fall, especially in cooler climates. Snapdragons are also known for their ability to attract pollinators, making them a valuable addition to any garden.

Why Snapdragons?

• Unique Blooms: Their dragon-shaped flowers add a whimsical touch to any garden.
• Cool-Weather Tolerance: Snapdragons thrive in cooler temperatures, making them perfect for fall gardens.
• Pollinator-Friendly: These flowers attract bees and butterflies, adding life to your garden.

10. Sweet Alyssum: The Fragrant Carpet

Sweet alyssum is a low-growing plant that produces tiny, fragrant flowers in shades of white, pink, and purple. It’s often used as a ground cover or in borders, and its sweet scent makes it a favorite among gardeners. Sweet alyssum blooms from late summer into fall and is known for its ability to attract beneficial insects.

Why Sweet Alyssum?

• Fragrance: The sweet scent of alyssum adds another layer of sensory appeal to your garden.
• Ground Cover: Its low-growing habit makes it perfect for filling in gaps in garden beds.
• Beneficial Insects: Alyssum attracts pollinators and other beneficial insects, helping to keep your garden healthy.

Conclusion

August is a fantastic time to plant a variety of flowers that will bring color and life to your garden well into the fall. From the cheerful faces of pansies to the star-shaped blooms of asters, there’s something for every gardener to enjoy. And who knows? Perhaps the moon does smile upon these late-season blooms, appreciating their resilience and beauty as they brighten the Earth below.

Related Q&A

Q: Can I plant perennials in August? A: Yes, many perennials can be planted in August, especially those that are hardy and can establish roots before winter. Examples include sedum, Russian sage, and goldenrod.

Q: How do I care for flowers planted in August? A: Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and mulch around the plants to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering.

Q: What flowers can I plant in August for a fall wedding? A: Consider chrysanthemums, asters, and pansies for their vibrant fall colors and long-lasting blooms. Ornamental kale and cabbage can also add unique texture to floral arrangements.

Q: Do flowers planted in August need special protection from frost? A: Some flowers, like pansies and chrysanthemums, are frost-tolerant, but others may need protection. Covering plants with frost cloth or bringing potted plants indoors can help protect them from early frosts.

Q: Can I plant wildflowers in August? A: Yes, many wildflower species can be planted in August, especially those that are native to your region. They will establish roots in the fall and bloom the following spring or summer.