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Summer Color

Picking out the right flowers for Florida’s climate can help you enjoy their bright colors all summer long.

Here are the flowers that thrive best in the Sunshine State, divided into perrennials and annuals. A combination of both is always ideal.

Perrennials

Perennials regrow and can last for many seasons or years. They generally have a shorter blooming period and are often not as spectacular as annuals.

Some of the lowest-maintenance perennials are Coreopsis, lantana, and Pentas, which take full or partial sun and attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Blue daze and Bulbine thrive in the summer heat and prefer full sun. They both are great for accents in flowering beds. For shaded areas, look for Crossandra,which comes in oranges and yellows.

Annuals

Annuals live for one season but have a burst of color that’s hard to beat! Some of the most durable annuals that need at least partial shade in the summer are Begonias,New Guinea Impatiens, marigolds, vinca, Salvia, Torenia, and Angelonia.Caladiums and Portulaca can take partial or full sun. They all willgive you a stunning display with the proper care.

Care Tips

Add fresh potting mix to containers and possibly flower beds that have not been cultivated or amended. Be sure to soak the pots and beds initially to eliminate air pockets. Regular watering will keep the plants growing until the seasonal rains begin.

Use a slow-release fertilizer to provide nutrients through the growing season, and try to weed regularly. Remember: small weeds are easier and less damaging to remove then large weeds.

You’re already well on your way to a yard full of color and life. Happy gardening!

Wes & Vickie Parrish The Parrishes know their landscaping, and have spent years studying the science of horticulture, and previously owned their own nursery. Wes frequently travels around Florida to give seminars about his passion and knowledge.

Call to Arms

Times are a’changing in Lake Cove Pointe—and so are the people living here! We are looking for volunteers to assist with various positions on our boards. Some groups looking for new members include: • The Home Owners Association Board • The Architectural Review Board • The Fining committee If you’re interested in being a part of what keeps our neighborhood beautiful, please contact Cher Lessard, Secretary of the Board, at cherless1@aol.com for more information.