Holding Summer: Resilient Planting for Hot Urban Gardens
Perovskia ‘Blue Spire’
High summer in East London means two things for gardens: heat and pause. Growth slows, moisture is patchy, and even well-established borders can feel the strain. But the right planting – thoughtful, layered, and suited to urban conditions – will carry a garden through the hottest weeks with quiet confidence.
Here’s how I help clients plan for July and beyond.
1. Choose Plants That Welcome the Heat
Some plants simply rise to the challenge of dry soil and full sun. I often turn to:
Phlomis russeliana – Its velvety leaves and yellow whorled flowers bring texture and calm persistence. Even after flowering, the seedheads hold structure into autumn.
Perovskia ‘Blue Spire’ – A smoky, upright sub-shrub that thrives in poor soils and lights up with blue haze in midsummer.
Stipa gigantea – Tall oat grass with golden plumes that shimmer in the light and bring softness to hard lines.
These aren’t just drought-tolerant – they’re generous. They fill space, move beautifully in wind, and ask very little in return.
2. Mulch and Mind the Soil
Even the most resilient plants need a little support. I mulch borders in early summer with composted bark or garden-made compost to conserve moisture, reduce stress, and keep roots cool. It’s a small act with big impact – particularly in heat-retentive city plots.
3. Add Breathable Shade
Instead of built shade, I sometimes introduce loose canopies with tall, airy plants like Verbena bonariensis or Ammi majus. They filter light, support pollinators, and create microclimates below. It’s a way to soften a harsh space without heavy intervention.
My Tip:
Don’t chase constant bloom in July. Focus on form, foliage, and resilience. A calm, confident garden will always outlast a flashy one in summer heat.
🌿 Need help making your garden more resilient?
I offer planting consultations and seasonal refreshes across East London – designed to help your space thrive in city conditions, with low-maintenance planting that endures.
