5 'standout' flowers to plant now for 'reliable' and 'long-lasting' summer blooms

Summer is the perfect time for gardens to come alive with colour. With just a few plants, even the smallest outdoor gardens can feel "refreshed" and "full of life". To make choosing easier, Emma Fell, head of horticulture at Hillier Garden Centres, has shared her favourite picks for "reliable, long-lasting" summer blooms.

1. Dahlia

The expert said: "Dahlias are celebrated for their impressive, sculptural blooms that come in an extensive palette of colours and forms. From delicate pastels to fiery reds and oranges, their versatility makes them an excellent choice for creating impact.

"They thrive best in full sun with well-drained, fertile soil. Regular watering and deadheading will encourage continuous flowering, often lasting from midsummer right through to the first frost.

"Their striking presence makes them ideal for borders or large containers."

2. Gerbera

According to the expert, garvinea brings the same daisy-like blooms as traditional gerbera, but with the added benefit of hardiness.

They're ideal for borders, containers or cut flowers, and they thrive in full sun and well-draining soil.

3. Impatiens

The expert said: "Impatiens, often known as Busy Lizzies, are a top choice for shaded areas where many flowering plants struggle.

"Their abundant blooms in shades of pink, red, white and purple provide much-needed vibrancy to the darker corners of your garden.

"These plants prefer partial shade and moist, well-drained soil (in full shade, they will reduce in flowering).

"Because of their shade tolerance and ease of care, they're perfect for brightening patios, balconies and shaded garden beds."

4. Gernaiums

Bedding geraniums are a staple for summer colour thanks to their robust nature and "prolific blooming." They offer bright, cheerful flowers in various shades, such as reds, pinks, whites, and purples.

Their versatility makes them great for edging beds, containers, as well as hanging baskets.

5. Rudbeckia

The gardening pro continued: "Rudbeckias bring warm, golden yellow blooms with dark centres that add a striking contrast to any planting scheme.

"They are long-flowering, typically from midsummer into autumn, and are excellent for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

"Rudbeckias prefer full sun and well-drained soil, making them low-maintenance yet highly effective plants for summer colour."