Virginia’s humid August climate welcomes specific flowers that thrive in the heat. If you’re searching for the best flowers to plant in august in virginia, you need varieties that can handle high humidity, afternoon thunderstorms, and intense sun. This guide covers exactly what to put in the ground right now for late-summer color and fall blooms.
August planting in Virginia is tricky. The soil is warm, which helps roots grow fast. But the heat can stress young plants. The key is choosing flowers that love warmth and have short germination times. Let’s look at your best options.
Best Flowers To Plant In August In Virginia
These flowers are proven winners for Virginia’s August conditions. They handle the humidity, bloom quickly, and often keep flowering until the first frost. Some even self-seed for next year.
Marigolds
Marigolds are practically bulletproof in Virginia heat. They germinate in just 5-7 days when the soil is warm. Plant them from seed directly in the ground or buy small transplants from a garden center.
- Choose French marigolds for compact plants
- African marigolds get taller and have bigger blooms
- Deadhead spent flowers to keep them blooming until October
- They repel some garden pests naturally
Marigolds need full sun. Water them deeply twice a week if it doesn’t rain. They tolerate poor soil, but add some compost for better blooms.
Zinnias
Zinnias are another August superstar. They love heat and bloom nonstop. Seeds sprout in 4-7 days. You’ll see flowers in about 6-8 weeks from planting.
- Plant in full sun with good air flow
- Space them 6-12 inches apart depending on variety
- Water at the base to prevent powdery mildew
- Cut flowers often to encourage more blooms
Zinnias come in every color except true blue. They attract butterflies and bees. For Virginia, try ‘Benary’s Giant’ or ‘Zahara’ series which resist disease better.
Cosmos
Cosmos are heat-tolerant and drought-resistant once established. They grow quickly from seed. Plant them in August and they’ll bloom by late September or early October.
- Sow seeds directly in well-drained soil
- Thin seedlings to 12-18 inches apart
- Don’t over-fertilize or you’ll get more leaves than flowers
- They self-seed readily for next year
Cosmos have delicate, fern-like foliage and daisy-shaped flowers in pink, white, and burgundy. They’re great for filling gaps in borders.
Sunflowers
Yes, you can still plant sunflowers in August in Virginia. Choose fast-maturing varieties that bloom in 50-60 days. ‘Sunray’ or ‘Teddy Bear’ are good choices.
- Plant seeds 1 inch deep in full sun
- Water regularly until seedlings are established
- Stake tall varieties if you get strong winds
- Harvest seeds for birds or yourself
Sunflowers are not just for looks. They provide food for birds and pollinators. Plus, they’re fun for kids to grow.
Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are edible flowers that thrive in Virginia’s August heat. They prefer poor soil, so don’t add fertilizer. Plant seeds directly where you want them to grow.
- Soak seeds overnight before planting for faster germination
- Plant in full sun to partial shade
- Water sparingly once established
- Leaves and flowers are both edible with a peppery taste
Nasturtiums trail or climb depending on the variety. They’re perfect for containers or hanging baskets.
Celosia
Celosia, also called cockscomb, loves heat and humidity. It comes in two types: plumed and crested. Both do well in Virginia August planting.
- Start from transplants for faster blooms
- Plant in rich, well-drained soil
- Full sun is best, but afternoon shade helps in extreme heat
- They make excellent cut and dried flowers
Celosia blooms in bright reds, oranges, yellows, and pinks. The flowers last for weeks on the plant.
Portulaca (Moss Rose)
Portulaca is a succulent ground cover that thrives in heat and drought. It’s perfect for Virginia’s August conditions. Plant it in poor, sandy soil for best results.
- Needs full sun to bloom well
- Water only when soil is completely dry
- Flowers close at night and on cloudy days
- Great for rock gardens and containers
Portulaca comes in neon shades of pink, orange, yellow, and red. It blooms from planting until frost.
Salvia
Salvia, or sage, is a heat-loving perennial that blooms from summer into fall. Plant it in August for flowers through October. It attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
- Choose annual varieties like ‘Victoria Blue’ for quick blooms
- Perennial salvias like ‘May Night’ will come back next year
- Full sun and well-drained soil are essential
- Cut back after first bloom to encourage reblooming
Salvia has spikes of blue, purple, red, or pink flowers. The foliage is often fragrant.
Lantana
Lantana is a tropical plant that thrives in Virginia’s heat. It blooms nonstop from planting until frost. It’s drought-tolerant once established.
- Plant in full sun for best flowering
- Space 12-18 inches apart
- Water regularly until established, then less often
- Can be grown as an annual or overwintered indoors
Lantana flowers change color as they age, creating a multicolored effect. It’s excellent for hot, dry spots where other plants struggle.
Cleome (Spider Flower)
Cleome is a tall, dramatic annual that self-seeds readily. Plant it in August for late-season blooms. It tolerates heat and humidity well.
- Sow seeds directly in full sun
- Thin to 12-18 inches apart
- Water moderately
- Deadhead to control self-seeding if desired
Cleome has unique spider-like flower clusters in pink, white, or purple. It adds height and texture to garden beds.
How To Plant Flowers In August In Virginia
Planting in August requires some special care. The heat can stress new plants. Follow these steps for success.
Prepare The Soil
Virginia soil varies from clay to sand. Most gardens benefit from adding organic matter. Mix in 2-3 inches of compost before planting.
- Test soil pH if possible. Most flowers prefer 6.0-7.0
- Remove weeds and rocks
- Loosen soil to 8-10 inches deep
- Add a slow-release fertilizer according to package directions
Water Correctly
August heat means you need to water carefully. New plants need consistent moisture until roots establish.
- Water deeply in the morning
- Use soaker hoses or drip irrigation to avoid wetting leaves
- Check soil moisture daily for the first two weeks
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and cool roots
Provide Shade If Needed
Some flowers benefit from afternoon shade during August’s peak heat. Use shade cloth or plant near taller plants for protection.
- Transplants may wilt in direct afternoon sun
- Provide temporary shade for 3-5 days after planting
- Remove shade once plants are established
Fertilize Lightly
August-planted flowers don’t need heavy feeding. Too much nitrogen encourages leaves instead of blooms.
- Use a balanced fertilizer at half strength
- Apply every 2-3 weeks for annuals
- Stop fertilizing 6 weeks before first frost
Common Mistakes When Planting In August
Avoid these errors to keep your August garden thriving.
Planting Too Late In The Day
Never plant in the afternoon heat. Morning or evening is best. Plants need time to settle before the sun gets intense.
Overwatering
It’s easy to overwater in August because the soil dries fast. But waterlogged roots rot quickly. Check soil moisture before watering.
Ignoring Pests
August brings aphids, spider mites, and Japanese beetles. Inspect plants weekly. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed.
Choosing Wrong Varieties
Not all flowers handle August planting. Avoid cool-season plants like pansies or snapdragons. Stick with heat-lovers from this list.
Benefits Of Planting Flowers In August In Virginia
August planting has advantages you might not expect.
- Soil is warm, so seeds germinate faster
- You get late-summer and fall color
- Many flowers bloom until first frost
- You can fill gaps left by spring-blooming plants
- Fall-planted perennials establish roots before winter
August is also a great time to plant perennials for next year. They’ll have time to root before cold weather arrives.
Flowers To Avoid Planting In August In Virginia
Some flowers won’t do well with August planting. Avoid these until cooler weather.
- Cool-season annuals like pansies, violas, and calendula
- Spring-blooming bulbs like tulips and daffodils
- Delicate perennials that need cool soil to establish
- Any flower that requires temperatures below 70°F to germinate
Wait until September or October for these plants. They’ll perform much better in cooler conditions.
Tips For Maintaining August-Planted Flowers
Keep your flowers healthy through the rest of summer and into fall.
Deadhead Regularly
Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms. This is especially important for marigolds, zinnias, and cosmos.
Watch For Disease
Humidity can cause powdery mildew and leaf spot. Space plants for good air flow. Water at the base, not overhead.
Mulch Well
A 2-3 inch layer of mulch keeps soil cool and moist. Use shredded bark, straw, or grass clippings.
Prepare For Frost
First frost in Virginia varies by region. In northern Virginia, it can come in mid-October. In coastal areas, it may be November. Have row cover or cloth ready to protect tender plants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Plant Flower Seeds Directly In The Ground In August In Virginia?
Yes, many flowers like marigolds, zinnias, and cosmos can be direct-sown in August. The warm soil helps seeds germinate quickly. Keep the soil moist until seedlings emerge.
What Flowers Bloom The Fastest When Planted In August In Virginia?
Marigolds and zinnias bloom fastest, often within 6-8 weeks from seed. Portulaca and nasturtiums also flower quickly. For even faster results, use transplants instead of seeds.
Should I Water August-planted Flowers Every Day?
No, daily watering can cause root rot. Water deeply 2-3 times per week, depending on rainfall. Check soil moisture 2 inches down. If it’s dry, water. If it’s moist, wait.
Can I Plant Perennials In August In Virginia?
Yes, August is a good time to plant perennials. They have time to establish roots before winter. Water them regularly until the ground cools in fall. Mulch well to protect roots.
What Flowers Attract Pollinators When Planted In August In Virginia?
Salvia, lantana, zinnias, and cosmos are excellent for pollinators. They attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Plant in groups for better visibility.
Regional Considerations For Virginia
Virginia spans multiple climate zones. What works in Norfolk may not work in Roanoke. Consider your specific area.
Coastal Virginia (Tidewater)
Higher humidity and milder winters. August is hot and humid. Focus on flowers that resist fungal diseases. Zinnias and marigolds do well here.
Central Virginia (Piedmont)
Hot summers with occasional drought. Well-drained soil is important. Cosmos and portulaca handle dry spells well.
Western Virginia (Mountains)
Cooler nights and earlier frost. Choose fast-maturing flowers. Sunflowers and nasturtiums work well. Plant earlier in August to ensure blooms before frost.
Final Thoughts On August Planting In Virginia
August is not too late to plant flowers in Virginia. With the right choices and proper care, you can enjoy color from late summer through fall. Stick with heat-tolerant varieties from this list. Water wisely, mulch well, and watch for pests. Your garden will reward you with blooms until the first frost.
Remember to check your local frost date. In most of Virginia, you have at least 8-10 weeks of growing time from August 1st. That’s plenty of time for marigolds, zinnias, cosmos, and other fast-growing flowers to bloom. Happy planting.