July Flowers in Bloom

We’ve officially reached the height of summer, the arrival of July bringing with it longer days and sunny evenings, providing even more time for us to tend to our gardens and enjoy the widest variety of flowers in bloom.

With the National Garden Scheme photographic competition now well under way, perhaps you’ll be inspired by this summery selection that you will no doubt encounter during your garden visits this month.

Dahlias

These vivid perennials, native to Mexico, thrive in the sun. Dahlias are long-lasting, often flowering until the first frosts. A popular choice with gardeners in recent years, Dahlias are ideal for summer borders or patio pots.

Orchid

One of the most diverse flowering plants, there are approximately 28,000 accepted species of orchid. Typically kept as a houseplant, orchids are relatively easy to grow and if tended to correctly they will give a long-lasting display of bright, fragrant flowers. In their natural habitat, orchids use trees or rocks as a support and feed from debris accumulated at their roots.

Sunflower

A childhood favourite! These gentle giants can grow to a height of 300 centimetres (120 in) or more and are named after their uncanny likeness to the sun. Sunflowers can be grown in yellows, dark reds and orange colours.

Gerbera

The fifth most used cut flower in the world. Gerberas come in a variety of warm tones and cool, pastel shades, and are commonly used in garden bedding.

Delphinium

Also known by their common name, Larkspur, these perennial plants form tall spikes of flowers often in blues, pinks or whites. The name ‘delphinium’ derives from the Latin word for ‘dolphin’, referring to the shape of their petals.

Image of floral garden display at 9 Osbourne Street, Cheshire