It’s a hot and humid day in Ohio, so I’m seeking refuge in the shade as much as possible. Today, I’m excited to share a few of my favorite summer plants through a video. To inspire you further, I’ll also include some images from my garden walk this morning! (wink)

A Glimpse of My Favorite Summer Plants Video

As I headed out to the garden to film a quick video, I found myself transported into a different world. Every visit to the garden captivates me with its beauty and wonder. Although the attached video runs a bit longer than a brief clip, I hope you enjoy it! I’ll be discussing some of my favorite summer plants, most of which I’ve successfully nurtured for over five years. Don’t forget to scroll down to see the highlights in my post featuring the top plants.

VIDEO:

The video linked to this post comes from my Bren Haas YouTube Channel. If you subscribe, you’ll receive updates as soon as my vlogs go LIVE. If you have any questions or comments, I respond much faster on this blog.

Shrubs, Perennials, and Tree Highlights

I’d like to take a moment to highlight the plants featured in the video. I’ve shared these before in videos and on social media, so if you follow my blog, you may recognize at least two of them from over the years. It’s reassuring to know that these plants, shrubs, and trees have thrived in hardiness zone 5b. Below are the top plants along with brief descriptions.

vanilla strawberry hyndrangea bloom early August
Just Starting to Blush - Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea Shrub
  • Vanilla Strawberry Hydrangea: This beauty is just beginning to turn pink this time of year. Thanks to more rain than in previous years, my blooms are thriving without any signs of drought. I can’t wait to dry a few for crafts this autumn!
Little Goldenstar Black Eyed Susan:
Little Goldenstar Black Eyed Susan:
  • Little Goldenstar Black Eyed Susan: A true winner in my garden right now! This plant thrives in full sun and can withstand the drought conditions along the driveway edge.
Summerific Cranberry Crush Hibiscus:
Summerific Cranberry Crush Hibiscus in Shade Area
  • Summerific Cranberry Crush Hibiscus: A showstopper in my garden! Although it’s no longer available at most garden centers, an updated version called Valentine’s Crush is new in my garden this year. I’m excited to share this perennial as it flourishes in the coming years.
Heliopsis helianthoides ‘Forged in Fire’
Heliopsis helianthoides ‘Forged in Fire’ in Shade
  • Heliopsis helianthoides ‘Forged in Fire’: One of my new favorites this year, this stunning perennial has been blooming since early June in various spots in my garden. The one featured in the video is in full sun and overflowing with blooms.
Watermelon Ruffle Hibiscus
Watermelon Ruffle Hibiscus in August
  •  Watermelon Ruffle Hibiscus: The video showcases the impressive blooms this plant produces in full sun. The flowers are HUGE and continue to bloom throughout late summer. Once the blooming period ends, I look forward to its globe shape and healthy foliage, which develops a lovely bronze hue as we transition into autumn.
 
Buddy and Kenny Kitty
Buddy and Kenny Hanging in the Air Conditioning

Let’s Connect

Thank you for taking the time to watch my video and read my blog post about my favorite summer plants. I look forward to connecting with you, so feel free to leave a comment in the appropriate section. Are you excited about what’s growing in your garden this summer?

Happy Summer!

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