June is a wonderful time to add vibrant color and life to your garden in Fort Worth, Texas. At Premier Nursery, we have a delightful selection of summer-blooming flowers that thrive in the Texas heat. This month, we spotlight four garden favorites: Zinnia, Cosmos, Penta, and Periwinkle. These hardy flowers are perfect for brightening up your garden beds and containers. Here’s a guide to help you get started.
Zinnia
Why Zinnia?
Zinnias are a gardener’s delight, known for their bright, bold colors and long-lasting blooms. These flowers are easy to grow and maintain, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Their vibrant hues attract butterflies, turning your garden into a lively, living tapestry.
For planting zinnias, choose a location with full sun and well-draining soil. They require moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. When planting, space seeds or transplants 6 to 18 inches apart, depending on the variety. To keep your zinnias blooming, regularly deadhead spent flowers and be vigilant about treating powdery mildew if it appears.
Cosmos
Why Cosmos?
Cosmos are daisy-like flowers that bring a delicate, airy feel to gardens. They are incredibly drought-tolerant and thrive in the hot Texas sun, making them an ideal choice for our climate. These charming flowers add a whimsical touch to any garden, effortlessly blending beauty and resilience.
For planting cosmos, select a spot with full sun and soil that ranges from average to poor but is well-draining. They require light watering and prefer drier conditions. Sow seeds or plant transplants 12 to 18 inches apart to allow ample room for growth. Cosmos are low maintenance; they regularly deadhead the flowers to extend the blooming period. Due to their height, staking may be necessary in windy areas to support their delicate stems.
Penta
Why Penta?
Pentagon-shaped clusters of starry flowers give Pentas their name, making them a standout addition to any garden. These tropical plants are perfect for adding a splash of vibrant color. They also attract hummingbirds and butterflies, making them an excellent choice for creating a wildlife-friendly garden.
For optimal growth, plant Pentas in a location with full sun to partial shade and fertile, well-draining soil. They require regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Space the plants 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for adequate growth. During the growing season, fertilize monthly and prune lightly to maintain their shape and encourage bushier growth.
Periwinkle (Vinca)
Why Periwinkle?
Periwinkles, also known as Vinca, are resilient plants that thrive in heat and are highly drought-tolerant. Their glossy green leaves and bright flowers make them a favorite for ground covers and borders, providing a lush and vibrant look to any garden.
To plant periwinkles, choose a location with full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. They require light to moderate watering and are drought-tolerant once established. Space the plants 8 to 12 inches apart to ensure adequate growth. Periwinkles are low maintenance; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. These hardy plants are resistant to most pests and diseases, making them an easy and reliable choice for any garden.
General Planting Tips for June
- Mulching – Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
- Fertilizing – Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to provide nutrients throughout the growing season.
- Pest Control – Keep an eye out for common garden pests such as aphids and caterpillars. Use natural or chemical treatments as necessary.
- Watering Schedule – Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and ensure plants have enough moisture to withstand the heat of the day.
Conclusion
June is a perfect time to enhance your garden with zinnia, cosmos, penta, and periwinkle. These beautiful and resilient plants are well-suited to the Fort Worth climate, providing vibrant color and attracting pollinators. Visit Premier Nursery to find these fantastic plants and get expert advice on making your garden the envy of the neighborhood. Happy planting!
Visit Premier Nursery Today!
Stop by Premier Nursery to explore our wide selection of summer plants and get all the supplies you need for a successful gardening season. Our experts are here to help you with any gardening questions and provide tips tailored to your garden’s specific needs. Let’s make your garden bloom this summer!
