What Flowers Can You Plant in July and Why Do They Make Your Neighbor's Cat Jealous?

July is a month of vibrant growth and blooming possibilities in the garden. While many might think that the peak planting season has passed, there are still numerous flowers that thrive when planted in July. This article explores the best flowers to plant during this time, their benefits, and some quirky reasons why they might just make your neighbor’s cat green with envy.

1. Marigolds (Tagetes)

Marigolds are a popular choice for July planting due to their hardiness and ability to bloom quickly. These bright, cheerful flowers come in shades of yellow, orange, and red, adding a splash of color to any garden. They are also known for their pest-repellent properties, making them a great companion plant for vegetables.

Why They Make Your Neighbor’s Cat Jealous: Marigolds emit a scent that cats find particularly unappealing. Planting them around your garden might just keep the neighborhood feline at bay, much to its chagrin.

2. Zinnias

Zinnias are another excellent choice for July planting. These flowers are known for their long-lasting blooms and come in a variety of colors, including pink, red, yellow, and purple. They are easy to grow from seed and can thrive in hot, sunny conditions.

Why They Make Your Neighbor’s Cat Jealous: Zinnias attract butterflies and bees, creating a lively and dynamic garden scene. Your neighbor’s cat, who likely spends its days lounging in the sun, might feel a pang of jealousy watching all the activity in your garden.

3. Cosmos

Cosmos are delicate, daisy-like flowers that are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your garden. They come in shades of pink, white, and purple and are known for their ability to thrive in poor soil conditions. Cosmos are also great for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Why They Make Your Neighbor’s Cat Jealous: Cosmos have a light, airy appearance that can make your garden look like a fairy tale. Your neighbor’s cat, who probably dreams of chasing butterflies through such a magical landscape, might feel a twinge of envy.

4. Sunflowers (Helianthus)

Sunflowers are iconic summer flowers that can be planted in July for a late-season bloom. These towering plants with their large, sunny faces are not only visually striking but also provide food for birds and other wildlife.

Why They Make Your Neighbor’s Cat Jealous: Sunflowers can grow to impressive heights, often towering over fences and walls. Your neighbor’s cat, who likely enjoys perching in high places, might feel a bit overshadowed by these majestic plants.

5. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are versatile flowers that can be planted in July for both their beauty and their edible qualities. These flowers come in vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and red and have a peppery flavor that can be used in salads and other dishes.

Why They Make Your Neighbor’s Cat Jealous: Nasturtiums are known for their ability to attract aphids away from other plants. While this is great for your garden, your neighbor’s cat, who might enjoy hunting insects, could feel a bit left out.

6. Petunias

Petunias are a classic choice for summer gardens, known for their wide range of colors and patterns. These flowers are perfect for hanging baskets, containers, or garden beds and can bloom continuously throughout the summer with proper care.

Why They Make Your Neighbor’s Cat Jealous: Petunias are often used in hanging baskets, which can sway gently in the breeze. Your neighbor’s cat, who likely enjoys a good swing in a hammock, might feel a bit envious of these flowers’ carefree movement.

7. Lavender (Lavandula)

Lavender is a fragrant herb that can be planted in July for its beautiful purple blooms and calming scent. This plant is not only aesthetically pleasing but also has numerous uses, from culinary to medicinal.

Why They Make Your Neighbor’s Cat Jealous: Lavender is known for its relaxing properties, often used in aromatherapy to reduce stress. Your neighbor’s cat, who might be feeling a bit tense from all the garden envy, could benefit from a whiff of lavender.

8. Dahlias

Dahlias are stunning flowers that come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. They are perfect for adding a dramatic touch to your garden and can be planted in July for a late summer or early fall bloom.

Why They Make Your Neighbor’s Cat Jealous: Dahlias are often used in floral arrangements and can make your garden look like a professional flower show. Your neighbor’s cat, who likely enjoys being the center of attention, might feel a bit upstaged by these show-stopping blooms.

9. Asters

Asters are daisy-like flowers that bloom in late summer and fall, making them a great choice for July planting. They come in shades of purple, pink, blue, and white and are known for attracting pollinators.

Why They Make Your Neighbor’s Cat Jealous: Asters are often associated with the changing seasons, symbolizing the transition from summer to fall. Your neighbor’s cat, who might be resistant to change, could feel a bit envious of these flowers’ ability to embrace the new season.

10. Pansies

Pansies are cool-weather flowers that can be planted in July for a fall bloom. These flowers come in a wide range of colors and patterns and are known for their “faces,” which add a whimsical touch to any garden.

Why They Make Your Neighbor’s Cat Jealous: Pansies are often used in window boxes and containers, creating a charming display that can be enjoyed from indoors. Your neighbor’s cat, who likely spends a lot of time looking out the window, might feel a bit envious of these flowers’ prime viewing spots.

Conclusion

Planting flowers in July can be a rewarding experience, adding color and life to your garden during the height of summer. Whether you choose marigolds, zinnias, or dahlias, each flower brings its own unique beauty and benefits. And who knows? Your garden might just become the envy of the neighborhood—cats included.

Related Q&A

Q: Can I plant roses in July? A: While roses can be planted in July, it’s generally better to plant them in the spring or fall when the weather is cooler. However, if you do plant roses in July, make sure to keep them well-watered and provide some shade during the hottest parts of the day.

Q: What flowers can I plant in July for a fall bloom? A: Flowers like asters, pansies, and chrysanthemums are great choices for planting in July to ensure a beautiful fall bloom. These flowers thrive in cooler weather and will add color to your garden as the seasons change.

Q: How often should I water flowers planted in July? A: Flowers planted in July will need regular watering, especially during hot, dry spells. It’s best to water deeply once or twice a week rather than shallowly every day, as this encourages deeper root growth and helps the plants withstand drought conditions.

Q: Can I plant wildflowers in July? A: Yes, you can plant wildflowers in July, but it’s important to choose varieties that are suited to your climate and soil conditions. Wildflowers like black-eyed Susans, coneflowers, and blanket flowers are good options for summer planting.

Q: What are the best flowers to attract pollinators in July? A: Flowers like zinnias, cosmos, and asters are excellent choices for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. These flowers provide nectar and pollen, making them a valuable resource for pollinators during the summer months.