The Home Growns
Let’s be real—your outdoor space deserves more than just a few sad pots from the grocery store parking lot. Whether you’re hosting backyard brunches in LA, sprucing up your Brooklyn apartment balcony, or planning a summer soirée in Dallas, blooming flowers can seriously elevate your aesthetic game.
I’ve been there: scrolling through Pinterest, dreaming of that perfect floral backdrop for my next Instagram post or garden party. But not all flowers are created equal—and trust me, some will make your summer glow like nothing else.
Here’s the good news: I’ve rounded up 10 show-stopping summer-flowering plants that are as easy to grow as they are gorgeous to look at. They’re perfect for plant newbies and green thumbs alike. Plus, they pair beautifully with everything from DIY projects to wedding backdrops and even home design schemes.
Ready to meet your new favorite summer blooms?
1. Hydrangea
Okay, let me tell you about hydrangeas—I used to think they were just those giant blue or pink balls people put in front of their houses and at weddings. So bougie, I thought. But then I planted one by accident (long story involving a nursery sale and poor impulse control), and now? I’m obsessed.
Why Hydrangeas Are the Ultimate Summer Statement Flower
If you’re looking for that “wow” factor in your summer garden, hydrangeas are like the Beyoncé of flowering plants—they just own the spotlight. Whether you’re into cottage-core vibes or modern minimalism, these blooms can fit right in. They come in so many shades—blue, pink, white, even purple—and they grow big, bold, and beautiful. Honestly, once they start blooming, it’s hard to look at anything else.
I remember the first time mine started showing color—it was like my yard had suddenly been upgraded to a Pinterest board. My neighbor actually stopped her car to ask what I’d done differently! That’s the power of a good hydrangea.
How to Control Bloom Color with Soil pH
Now here’s where it gets fun: you can actually change the bloom color based on your soil pH. Super cool, right?
- If your soil is more acidic (pH below 5.5), you’ll get those rich blue hydrangeas.
- Alkaline soil (pH above 6.5) gives you soft, romantic pink blooms.
- White hydrangeas? Those don’t change color—they’re the neutral queens of the bunch.
I messed around with this using a simple soil test kit from the garden store. Then I added some aluminum sulfate to make mine bluer because, hello, moody tones are in right now. Just be careful not to overdo it—trust me, I learned that the hard way after nearly killing my plant with too much product.
Tips for Planting in Both Sun and Partial Shade
Hydrangeas aren’t super picky, but they do have preferences. Most varieties love morning sun and afternoon shade. Too much direct sunlight and their leaves will start to look sad and crispy—ask me how I know.
They also need well-draining soil. I learned this when I planted one in a soggy spot and ended up with root rot. Not cute. So, if your garden holds water like a puddle pool, mix in some compost or plant them in raised beds.
And don’t forget to water deeply a few times a week, especially during hot summers. These guys love moisture, but not soaked roots—kind of like us after a long day in the heat.
Styling Ideas for Weddings, Photography Backdrops, and Porch Decor
Oh, the styling possibilities with hydrangeas? Endless. I’ve used them as living centerpieces for backyard bridal showers, as backdrops for maternity photo shoots, and even in DIY floral walls for baby showers. They photograph like a dream—soft, full, and totally editorial.
On my porch, I pair potted hydrangeas with wicker chairs and linen throws for that effortless “California casual” look. And in the summer? People always comment on how Instagram-worthy it is.
Next up, we’re diving into dahlias, which might just steal your heart with their wild colors and endless variety. Ready to geek out on more summer blooms? Click next! 🌸
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