Vinegar is effective at killing most young, tender, and shallow-rooted weeds such as chickweed or small annual weeds. The acetic acid in vinegar dries out the plant’s leaves and stems, causing them to wither. However, it’s less effective against deep-rooted or perennial weeds like dandelions, crabgrass, or thistles. These tougher weeds may require repeated applications, higher-strength vinegar, or a combination of vinegar spray with manual removal to fully eliminate them.
Yes. DIY weed killers such as vinegar, salt, and boiling water are non-selective, meaning they don’t distinguish between weeds, grass, or flowers. If they come in direct contact with your lawn, vegetable plants, or ornamental flowers, they can cause scorching, yellowing, or even death. To avoid harming desirable plants, apply these solutions carefully and directly on weeds, ideally with a spray bottle or by shielding nearby plants with cardboard or plastic during application.
Generally, yes—when used properly. Unlike chemical herbicides, homemade options like vinegar, salt, or boiling water don’t leave behind long-lasting toxic residues. Pets and children can safely return to treated areas once the vinegar has fully dried or the boiling water has cooled. However, concentrated vinegar (horticultural vinegar with higher acidity) can cause skin or paw irritation if touched while wet, so always let the treated area settle before allowing pets back.
Natural weed killers typically show visible effects within 24 hours. Weeds may start to wilt, turn brown, or dry up soon after application, especially in hot, sunny, and dry conditions, which speed up the process. For tougher weeds or cloudy weather, results may take longer, and you may need to reapply for complete control. Keep in mind that these methods work best on small or actively growing weeds, not large established ones.
No, most DIY weed killers are not a permanent fix. While they kill the parts of the weed above the soil, many weeds—especially perennials—can regrow from seeds or deep root systems. To maintain a weed-free garden, combine these natural treatments with preventive strategies such as mulching, pulling weeds before they seed, applying corn gluten meal to block germination, or maintaining dense, healthy plant cover to crowd out weeds naturally.
Yes, you can grow a banana tree indoors, especially if you choose dwarf varieties such as the Dwarf Cavendish. These smaller banana plants can thrive in large pots, provided they receive plenty of sunlight—ideally near a south-facing window—or supplemental grow lights. Indoor banana plants also benefit from high humidity, so regular misting or the use of a humidifier can help them flourish. With proper care, indoor banana trees can produce lush tropical foliage and, in some cases, even fruit.
Most edible banana varieties, such as Cavendish, are seedless and cannot be grown from seeds. Instead, they reproduce through suckers (also called pups) that grow around the base of the plant. However, wild banana species do produce large, hard seeds that can be germinated. These seed-grown bananas are not commonly cultivated for eating, as their fruit is often filled with seeds and lacks the sweetness of cultivated varieties.
Banana plants typically take between 9 to 15 months from planting to produce fruit, although the exact time depends on the variety, climate, and growing conditions. They grow fastest in consistently warm temperatures with high humidity and fertile soil. Once the flower stalk emerges, it usually takes another 2 to 6 months for the bananas to mature and be ready for harvest.
Yes, the main stem of a banana plant, often called the "mother plant," dies after it produces fruit. However, the plant doesn’t completely die out—it produces new shoots or suckers at the base. These suckers grow into new plants, continuing the cycle. Gardeners often select the healthiest suckers to grow into the next generation of fruit-bearing plants, ensuring a continuous supply of bananas.
Banana plants are tropical and do not tolerate frost or freezing temperatures. In regions with cold winters, they must either be grown in pots and brought indoors before the first frost or protected outdoors with heavy mulching and wrapping. Some cold-hardy ornamental varieties can withstand cooler temperatures, but fruit-bearing types generally need a warm, frost-free climate to survive and produce well.
It depends on the sunflower varieties you choose. When you’re growing sunflowers from seed, most sunflower plants take 70–100 days from the time you sow the seed until sunflower heads bloom. Smaller varieties are usually fast growing and bloom earlier, while a giant sunflower takes longer.
There are many types of sunflowers. The traditional giant sunflower can reach 12–15 feet tall, producing large seed heads packed with edible seeds. Small sunflower varieties are ideal for pots or borders. For continuous color, try succession planting with branching varieties. When deciding on sunflowers to grow, consider if you want cut flowers, acres of sunflowers, or seeds for roasting.
To plant sunflower seeds, choose a sunny spot or use seeds in pots. Outdoors, sow sunflower seeds 6 inches apart for smaller plants or several inches apart for giants. Indoors, you can plant seeds indoors in pots and later transplant them along a fence or in beds. The best planting time is after the frost has passed.
Summer is the perfect season to enjoy flowers that bloom vibrantly and bring life to your garden or home. Whether you're looking to brighten your garden beds or create stunning summer flower arrangements, there are plenty of summer flowers—both annual and perennial—that will bloom all summer long. From the towering sunflower to delicate lilies, this guide features 10 summer flowers guaranteed to add color, texture, and fragrance throughout the summer season.
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Zinnias are vibrant summer annuals native to Mexico, widely cherished for their bright, bold colors and ease of growth. These flowers typically grow between 1 to 3 feet tall, featuring daisy-like heads in hues of red, orange, yellow, pink, white, and multicolored blends, complemented by bright green, lance-shaped leaves arranged in opposite pairs. Zinnias thrive best in full sun with well-drained, moderately fertile soil, and they are highly heat-tolerant, making them ideal for sunny borders or cutting gardens. For optimal growth, water them regularly but avoid overwatering by letting the top inch of soil dry out between watering sessions. They prefer warm temperatures around 65–85°F and tolerate low to moderate humidity. Given their low-maintenance nature and quick bloom time, zinnias are perfect for beginner gardeners seeking a splash of summer color that lasts all season.
A beginner’s guide to planting vibrant zinnias from seed and keeping them blooming all season long.
Soil: Well-draining, moderately fertile
Water: Moderate; allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
Light: Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily)
Humidity: Average humidity levels
Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a month
Temperature: Prefers 70–85°F (21–29°C)
USDA Zone: Grown as annuals in zones 2–11
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Marigolds, native to Central and South America, are celebrated for their vibrant golden, orange, red, and yellow flowers, and their traditional role in cultural ceremonies and natural pest control. They typically grow from 6 inches to 2 feet tall, sporting rounded or ruffled blooms with deeply lobed, dark green fragrant leaves that repel many garden pests. Marigolds flourish in full sun and adapt well to a variety of soil types, including poor and dry soils, making them extremely versatile. These hardy plants require deep but infrequent watering, allowing soil to dry slightly between watering to prevent root rot. They perform best in moderate temperatures ranging from 60–75°F and can tolerate low humidity. Because of their pest-repelling properties combined with their bright, cheerful flowers and ease of care, marigolds are highly recommended for gardeners who want colorful, low-effort plants that also benefit companion planting.
Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile
Water: Water moderately; allow the topsoil to dry between waterings
Light: Full sun
Humidity: Tolerates a wide range of humidity conditions
Fertilizer: Avoid over-fertilizing as it can reduce flower production
Temperature: 70–90°F (21–32°C)
USDA Zone: Grown as annuals in all zones
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Petunias, originally from South America, are among the most versatile and beloved bedding plants, ideal for containers, window boxes, and garden borders. They grow between 6 and 18 inches tall and feature trumpet-shaped blooms in an extensive spectrum of colors, often adorned with stripes, speckles, or ruffled edges, while their light green, slightly sticky leaves provide a lush backdrop. These plants thrive in sunny locations with well-draining, nutrient-rich soil, and benefit from regular feeding to support continual blooming. Petunias prefer consistent moisture without waterlogging and need at least 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. They grow best in moderate temperatures of 60–75°F with medium humidity. Due to their moderate maintenance requirements—such as regular deadheading to encourage fresh blooms—petunias are best suited for intermediate gardeners who enjoy container gardening and engaging actively in plant care.
Soil: Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral
Water: Moderate; water when the top inch of soil is dry
Light: Full sun to partial sun
Humidity: Moderate humidity
Fertilizer: Liquid fertilizer every two weeks
Temperature: 60–75°F (15–24°C)
USDA Zone: Grown as annuals in all zones
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Native to North America, sunflowers are iconic summer annuals known for their striking height and large, showy flower heads that not only provide spectacular garden visuals but also yield edible seeds. These towering plants can reach between 5 and 12 feet tall, boasting broad green leaves and large round flower heads with vibrant yellow petals surrounding dark brown to black centers. Sunflowers require full sun and ample space, thriving in fertile, well-drained soils where they can develop strong stems. Their care involves deep but infrequent watering to maintain drought tolerance once established, and they flourish in temperatures between 70–78°F with moderate humidity. Due to their size and dramatic impact, sunflowers are best suited for gardeners with large outdoor areas who want bold statement plants or are interested in harvesting seeds.
Soil: Loose, well-drained, nutrient-rich
Water: Moderate; water deeply but allow to dry slightly between watering
Light: Full sun (at least 6 hours daily)
Humidity: Tolerates dry conditions
Fertilizer: Light nitrogen-rich feeding early in the growing season
Temperature: 70–78°F (21–26°C)
USDA Zone: Annual in all zones
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Originating from Mexico, cosmos are valued for their light, airy foliage and delicate daisy-like flowers that gently sway in summer breezes, bringing a natural, wildflower feel to any garden. They grow between 2 and 4 feet tall, featuring soft, feathery green leaves and blooms in a variety of colors including white, pink, magenta, and orange. Cosmos do well in full sun and surprisingly thrive in poor, well-drained soils, making them low-maintenance and suitable for wildflower-style gardens. They require moderate watering but are drought tolerant once established, and prefer temperatures from 65–85°F with low humidity. Because of their carefree nature, easy growth, and ability to attract pollinators, cosmos are an excellent choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance, naturalistic, or wildlife-friendly plants.
Soil: Well-drained, not overly rich
Water: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant
Light: Full sun
Humidity: Prefers dry to average humidity
Fertilizer: Avoid over-fertilizing; it can reduce blooms
Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C)
USDA Zone: Annual in all zones
Discover the symbolism behind each month’s flower and what it reveals about you or your loved ones.
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Lavender is a fragrant perennial herb native to the Mediterranean, prized for its soothing scent, medicinal uses, and ability to attract pollinators. Growing 1 to 3 feet tall, lavender features narrow silvery-green leaves and slender spikes adorned with purple or bluish flowers that lend elegance and calming fragrance to any garden. It thrives in full sun with dry, well-drained soil—preferably sandy or gravelly—and prefers warm, dry climates with low humidity. Lavender needs minimal watering once established and benefits from pruning after flowering to maintain health and encourage new growth. Ideal growing temperatures range between 65–85°F. Due to its specific climate and soil requirements and pruning needs, lavender is best suited for experienced gardeners in dry, sunny regions who appreciate aromatic and ornamental plants.
Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy
Water: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Light: Full sun
Humidity: Prefers warm, humid environments
Fertilizer: Monthly feeding with a balanced fertilizer
Temperature: 70–95°F (21–35°C)
USDA Zone: Perennial in zones 9–11; grown as annual elsewhere
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Black-eyed Susans are native North American perennials prized for their cheerful, daisy-like appearance and value to pollinator-friendly gardens. These plants grow 2 to 3 feet tall with bright yellow petals encircling a dark brown center, complemented by coarse green leaves that add textural interest. They thrive in full sun and tolerate a wide range of soil types, from clay to sandy soils, as long as drainage is adequate. Black-eyed Susans require moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry between watering, and prefer temperatures of 65–80°F with moderate humidity. Their adaptability and bright flowers make them perfect for beginner gardeners and those focused on creating wildlife-friendly landscapes.
Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
Water: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Light: Full sun
Humidity: Tolerates a range of humidity levels
Fertilizer: Light feeding in early spring
Temperature: 60–85°F (16–29°C)
USDA Zone: Perennial in zones 4–9
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Daylilies are hardy perennials well-known for their prolific summer blooms, although each individual flower lasts just a single day. They grow between 1 and 4 feet tall with arching, grass-like foliage and trumpet-shaped flowers in a wide array of colors including yellow, orange, red, purple, and bicolors. Daylilies adapt to many conditions but flourish in full sun to partial shade with rich, well-drained soil. They require regular watering, especially during dry spells, and prefer temperatures between 60–80°F with moderate humidity. Easy to care for and resilient, daylilies are ideal for gardeners seeking low-maintenance perennials that reliably return year after year with minimal intervention.
Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter
Water: Regular watering; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Light: Full sun
Humidity: Moderate humidity
Fertilizer: High-potassium fertilizer every 2–4 weeks
Temperature: 65–75°F (18–24°C)
USDA Zone: Perennial in zones 8–11; grown as annuals or lifted in colder zones
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Dahlias, native to Central America, are tuberous perennials commonly grown as annuals in cooler climates and are renowned for their spectacular and diverse flower forms. These plants range from 1 to 5 feet tall and produce blooms in nearly every color imaginable, from small pom-poms to massive dinner-plate sized flowers, set against lush, deep green foliage. Dahlias thrive in full sun and rich, well-drained soil, needing consistent watering while avoiding wet foliage to prevent disease. They also require staking for taller varieties and benefit from good air circulation. Ideal growing temperatures range from 65–80°F with moderate humidity. Due to their care needs including watering, staking, and winter tuber storage in cold zones, dahlias suit experienced gardeners who enjoy cut flowers and container planting.
Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
Water: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Light: Full sun
Humidity: Prefers warm, humid environments
Fertilizer: Monthly feeding with a balanced fertilizer
Temperature: 70–95°F (21–35°C)
USDA Zone: Perennial in zones 9–11; grown as annuals elsewhere
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Verbena bonariensis, native to South America, is prized for its tall, airy stems crowned with clusters of tiny purple flowers that add vertical interest and attract pollinators. This drought-tolerant perennial grows between 3 and 6 feet tall and has sparse, narrow leaves. Verbena thrives in sunny, dry locations with poor to average well-drained soil, preferring full sun exposure and warm temperatures ranging from 65 to 85°F. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Due to its low maintenance, tolerance of drought, and ability to attract beneficial insects, verbena is perfect for gardeners seeking tall, pollinator-friendly plants that add color with minimal care in wildlife or cottage gardens.
Soil: Sandy, well-drained soil
Water: Low; drought-tolerant
Light: Full sun
Humidity: Tolerates dry conditions
Fertilizer: Light feeding once during the growing season
Temperature: 70–100°F (21–38°C)
USDA Zone: Grown as annuals in all zones
Brighten your garden all season with perennial flowers that offer lasting color and minimal upkeep.
A: A well-rounded summer garden often includes a mix of the 40 best summer flowers to ensure a dazzling flower arrangement with varied size, color, and shape. Including native plants and flowers like aster, sea holly, and portulaca can add beauty and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
A: Absolutely! White flowers bring brightness and a fresh look, complementing the bright orange and orange and yellow blooms. Plants like foxglove, hydrangeas, and some tubular flowers in shades of white can add elegance and contrast.
A: Flowers with funnel-shaped flowers, tubular flowers, and shades of purple and blue such as lantana, delphinium, and amaranth are especially attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds. These flowers also add vibrant color to any garden or container.
