Builder Release
Outdoor kitchens and a party-ready atmosphere certainly add a lot to your backyard. But don’t forget natural beauty! A well-tended lawn and eye-catching decorative plants bring an atmosphere of tranquility that anyone will appreciate.
Bring nature to your backyard! These 5 flowers thrive in the Houston climate and add fragrant color to your hangout space. #Creekstone #backyarddesign #outdoorliving #flowers Share on X
Plants That Withstand the Houston Climate
As many Texan gardeners know, it’s important to find plants that can survive and even thrive in a Houston summer. Fortunately, a long list of beautiful flowers can do just that! Here are just a few colorful plants to keep in your backyard all year round:
- Azaleas
- Gardenia
- Lilacs
- Star jasmine
- Milkweed
1) Azaleas
Most of the year, azalea bushes are dark green. But every spring, the entire bush is covered in fragrant dark pink flowers. These plants are perfect as a poolside accessory! Plant your azaleas in the spring in a lightly shaded part of your yard for best results.
2) Gardenia
Known for their dark green leaves and their vibrantly white flowers, gardenias bloom in early summer and release a strong fragrance. These plants require a bit more attention to grow, but once the bush is strong and healthy, they thrive in the hot Houston climate. Plant your gardenias in an area of full sun to light shade.
3) Lilacs
Lilacs are the perfect choice for a homeowner looking to plant a rainbow of flowers! Colors include pink, purple, white, and yellow. Better yet, lilacs planted as a hedge can grow up to 9 feet tall and serve as a natural privacy fence with minimal care required! Plant your lilacs in the spring or fall in a space that gets a good amount of sun every afternoon.
4) Star Jasmine
White, sweet-smelling star jasmine originates from Japan and China, making it an excellent candidate for the warm Houston climate. This plant has a slow start, but once it gets going, it can grow up to between 3-6 feet high! Depending on how they’re planted, they can either spread out as ground cover or climb nearby structures for a breathtaking look.
Pro Tip: Want a truly elegant pergola in your backyard? Plant some star jasmine nearby and train it to climb the structure! The flowers will provide a wonderfully perfumed atmosphere.
5) Milkweed
Finally, families with children will love the chance to watch butterflies! To attract these colorful insects, plant milkweed around your yard. Don’t worry–the plants aren’t poisonous to people (though they can be harmful to pets). The bright orange and black monarch butterfly exclusively feeds on milkweed nectar, all but guaranteeing you’ll see plenty of butterflies in your backyard! Plant your milkweed in full sunlight and give the leaves plenty of time to grow.
Natural Decor for Your Yard
At the end of the day, nature is the best decorator on the planet. Fragrant, colorful flowers are the perfect way to bring a pop of color and gentle beauty to your outdoor hangout space.
Join the conversation for more ideas on starting your own summer flower garden.
