Louisiana’s sweltering August requires flowers that can survive both high heat and frequent rain. If you are searching for the best flowers to plant in august in louisiana, you need varieties that thrive in humid, subtropical conditions. The intense sun and afternoon downpours can wipe out delicate blooms, but the right choices will keep your garden colorful through late summer and into fall.
This guide covers tough, heat-tolerant flowers that handle Louisiana’s August climate. You will learn which plants perform best, how to plant them correctly, and simple care tips to ensure success. Let’s get started.
Best Flowers To Plant In August In Louisiana
August in Louisiana means temperatures often hit the 90s with high humidity. Many gardeners think it is too late to plant, but that is not true. Several flowers actually prefer being set out in late summer. They bloom until the first frost, which in Louisiana can be as late as November or December.
The key is choosing plants that love heat and don’t mind wet soil. Below are the top performers for August planting in the Pelican State.
Lantana
Lantana is a superstar for Louisiana summers. It thrives in full sun and blooms non-stop from spring until frost. The flowers come in yellow, orange, pink, and red clusters. Butterflies love them.
- Plant in well-drained soil
- Water deeply once a week
- No deadheading needed
- Grows as a perennial in south Louisiana
Angelonia
Also called summer snapdragon, angelonia handles heat and humidity without issue. It produces spikes of purple, pink, or white flowers. This plant does not require much care.
- Space plants 12 inches apart
- Use in beds or containers
- Fertilize lightly every 4 weeks
- Cut back after first bloom for more flowers
Pentas
Pentas are another heat-loving choice. Their star-shaped flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Colors include red, pink, lavender, and white. They bloom from planting until frost.
- Plant in partial to full sun
- Keep soil moist but not soggy
- Remove spent blooms to encourage new growth
- Can overwinter in protected areas
Zinnias
Zinnias grow quickly from seed or transplants. They love the heat and produce bright, daisy-like flowers. August is a perfect time to sow zinnia seeds for fall color.
- Choose a sunny spot with good drainage
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep
- Water gently every day until sprouts appear
- Thin seedlings to 6 inches apart
- Enjoy blooms in 6 to 8 weeks
Portulaca
Portulaca, or moss rose, is a succulent that thrives in poor soil and full sun. It produces small, rose-like flowers in bright shades. This plant is extremely drought-tolerant.
- Plant in sandy or rocky soil
- Water only when soil is dry
- Great for hanging baskets
- Flowers close at night and on cloudy days
Celosia
Celosia offers unique, feathery or crested flower heads. It loves heat and comes in red, orange, yellow, and pink. This plant adds texture to any garden.
- Plant in full sun
- Use well-draining soil
- Water at the base to avoid leaf disease
- Cut flowers for indoor arrangements
Marigolds
Marigolds are classic summer flowers that tolerate Louisiana’s heat. They also repel some garden pests. French and African marigolds both work well.
- Plant after the last heat wave passes
- Space French types 8 inches apart
- Space African types 12 inches apart
- Remove dead flowers to extend blooming
Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea is a tropical vine that thrives in heat. It produces colorful bracts in pink, purple, red, or orange. In Louisiana, it is often grown in containers and moved indoors during freezes.
- Use a pot with drainage holes
- Place in full sun
- Water sparingly once established
- Prune after blooming to shape
How To Plant Flowers In August In Louisiana
Planting in August requires special attention to soil and water. The heat stresses new transplants quickly. Follow these steps for the best results.
Prepare The Soil
Louisiana soil is often heavy clay or sandy. Both need amending. Mix in 2 to 3 inches of compost or aged manure. This improves drainage and adds nutrients.
- Test soil pH if possible (aim for 6.0 to 7.0)
- Remove weeds and rocks
- Loosen soil to 8 inches deep
- Add a slow-release fertilizer at planting time
Water Correctly
New plants need consistent moisture. Water deeply in the morning. This allows leaves to dry before night, reducing disease risk.
- Water daily for the first week
- Then water every 2 to 3 days for two weeks
- After that, water once a week if no rain
- Use soaker hoses or drip irrigation
Provide Shade If Needed
Some flowers benefit from afternoon shade during their first week. Use shade cloth or a temporary umbrella. Remove it after plants establish.
Mulch The Beds
Mulch keeps soil cool and moist. Apply 2 to 3 inches of pine straw, bark, or shredded leaves. Keep mulch away from plant stems.
Common Mistakes When Planting In August
Even experienced gardeners make errors in August heat. Avoid these pitfalls.
Planting Too Deep
Set plants at the same depth as their nursery pots. Planting too deep can cause stem rot. Too shallow exposes roots to heat.
Skipping Hardening Off
If you buy transplants from a greenhouse, harden them off. Place them outside in shade for a few hours, then gradually increase sun exposure over 3 to 5 days.
Overwatering
While new plants need water, soggy soil leads to root rot. Check soil moisture with your finger. Water only when the top inch is dry.
Ignoring Pests
August brings aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Inspect plants weekly. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed.
Best Flowers For Shady Areas In August
Not every Louisiana garden gets full sun. These flowers perform well in partial shade.
Impatiens
Impatiens bloom in shade with colors from white to deep pink. They need consistent moisture. New Guinea impatiens handle more sun.
- Plant in rich, well-drained soil
- Water when soil feels dry
- Fertilize every two weeks
- Watch for downy mildew in humid weather
Coleus
Coleus is grown for its colorful leaves, not flowers. It adds bold patterns in shade. Pinch off flower spikes to keep foliage full.
- Choose sun-tolerant varieties for brighter spots
- Keep soil evenly moist
- Propagate from cuttings easily
- Bring indoors before first frost
Begonias
Wax begonias and tuberous begonias thrive in shade. They produce small flowers in pink, red, or white. They tolerate humidity well.
- Plant in well-draining soil
- Water at the base to prevent leaf spots
- Fertilize monthly
- Deadhead regularly
Flowers To Avoid In August In Louisiana
Some popular flowers struggle in August heat. Avoid these until cooler weather.
- Petunias – they get leggy and stop blooming in high heat
- Pansies – they prefer cool temperatures
- Snapdragons – they bolt in heat
- Dianthus – they fade quickly in humidity
- Lobelia – it melts in hot, wet conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Plant Flower Seeds In August In Louisiana?
Yes, you can plant fast-growing seeds like zinnias, marigolds, and sunflowers. They will bloom before frost. Keep seeds moist during germination.
What Flowers Bloom All Summer In Louisiana?
Lantana, angelonia, pentas, and portulaca bloom from spring until frost. They are reliable choices for continuous color.
Should I Fertilize Flowers Planted In August?
Yes, but use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid high-nitrogen formulas that promote leaves over flowers. Apply lightly every 4 to 6 weeks.
How Often Should I Water Flowers In August?
New plants need daily water for the first week. Established plants need deep watering once or twice a week, depending on rainfall. Check soil moisture before watering.
What Is The Best Mulch For Louisiana Gardens?
Pine straw is popular because it is lightweight and allows water to pass through. Shredded bark and leaves also work well. Avoid rubber mulch in vegetable or flower beds.
Final Tips For August Planting In Louisiana
Plant in the early morning or late evening to reduce transplant shock. Water transplants with a diluted starter fertilizer solution. Monitor for signs of heat stress like wilting or leaf scorch. Provide temporary shade during extreme heat waves.
Group plants with similar water needs together. This prevents overwatering some and underwatering others. Use raised beds if your soil drains poorly. They warm up faster and drain better in heavy rain.
Consider native Louisiana flowers like blue mistflower or butterfly weed. They are adapted to local conditions and support pollinators. Native plants often require less water and fertilizer.
Keep a garden journal. Note which flowers performed best in your specific location. August planting can be rewarding if you choose the right varieties and care for them properly.
With the right selections, your Louisiana garden can stay vibrant through the hottest month. The flowers listed here will give you color, texture, and life even when temperatures soar. Start planting today and enjoy blooms until the first frost.