**Article written by Angela Mason, Beaufort County Cooperative Extension Master Gardener Volunteer**

As the temperatures climb and the days grow longer, many gardeners find themselves facing the annual struggle of keeping their gardens vibrant during the hottest months. Fortunately, there is an array of heat-tolerant annuals that not only survive but thrive in the sweltering summer sun. These colorful, low-maintenance plants are perfect for Eastern North Carolina and beyond, offering season-long beauty with minimal fuss.

One standout among heat-loving annuals is vinca (Catharanthus roseus), also known as Madagascar periwinkle. Vinca is a true workhorse in the summer garden, flourishing in full sun and tolerating periods of drought once established. Available in a stunning range of colors — from crisp whites and pinks to deep reds and purples — vinca plants form neat, mounded shapes that make them ideal for borders, containers, or mass plantings. Modern varieties, such as those in the “Cora” series, have been bred for improved disease resistance and are particularly resistant to the dreaded “soggy summer slump.”

Another favorite for sizzling summers is celosia. With their vibrant, unusual flower shapes that resemble flames, feathers, or coral, celosias bring bold texture and drama to garden beds and arrangements. Celosia thrives in hot, sunny spots and demands very little beyond well-drained soil and the occasional deadheading to keep blooms coming. Varieties like ‘Intenz’ (with striking magenta plumes) and ‘Dragon’s Breath’ (with fiery red foliage and flowers) are showstoppers that require little pampering to perform beautifully.

No discussion of heat-tolerant annuals would be complete without mentioning the cheerful and ever-reliable zinnia. Beloved by gardeners and pollinators alike, zinnias explode with vivid color from early summer until the first frost. They are especially adored for their resilience, withstanding high heat, humidity, and even less-than-ideal soil conditions. Zinnias come in a kaleidoscope of colors, shapes, and sizes, making them incredibly versatile for every type of garden. Dwarf varieties such as ‘Profusion’ series are ideal for edging and containers, while taller types like ‘Benary’s Giant’ create stunning backdrops and cut flowers.

Incorporating heat-tolerant annuals into your summer garden not only ensures months of color but also helps reduce your workload. With fewer demands for watering and little need for constant tending, these plants allow you to spend more time enjoying your garden rather than laboring in it.

Tips for Success with Heat-Tolerant Annuals

• Plant at the right time: Wait until the soil has warmed and nighttime temperatures stay reliably above 60°F before planting heat-loving annuals.
• Amend your soil: While these plants are tough, they perform best in soil enriched with compost or organic matter, ensuring proper drainage and nutrient availability.
• Water wisely: Deep, infrequent watering encourages stronger root systems and better drought tolerance. Early morning is the best time to water to minimize evaporation.
• Mulch matters: A 2-3 inch layer of mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Deadhead as needed: While many newer varieties are self-cleaning, removing spent blooms can encourage even more flowers and keep plants looking tidy.

Beyond the Basics

Other excellent heat-tolerant annuals worth considering include lantana, portulaca (moss rose), marigold, and gomphrena (globe amaranth). Each brings its own unique form, texture, and splash of color, giving gardeners endless opportunities to create dynamic summer displays that thrive no matter how high the mercury climbs.

Whether you’re looking to revamp your front yard, add life to containers on your porch, or fill in a few bare spots in your flower beds, heat-tolerant annuals are a reliable, beautiful choice. With just a little planning and the right plant selections, your garden can continue to shine brilliantly all summer long.

Suggested Reading:

• “The Well-Tended Perennial Garden” by Tracy DiSabato-Aust — While focused on perennials, this classic offers excellent advice on planting and maintenance that easily applies to hardy annuals.
• “Gardening with Confidence: 50 Ways to Add Style for Personal Creativity” by Helen Yoest — A wonderful source of inspiration from a Southern gardener who understands the challenges of heat and humidity.
• “Floret Farm’s Cut Flower Garden” by Erin Benzakein — Perfect for those who want to grow zinnias and other heat-loving annuals for cutting gardens and arrangements.

With a little thoughtful selection and care, your garden can be a showcase of vibrant, heat-defying beauty from Memorial Day to Labor Day and beyond.

If you have questions about your home garden or landscape, reach out to Gene Fox, Consumer Horticulture Agent with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service. Email Gene at gene_fox@ncsu.edu or call (252) 946-0111. Master Gardeners are available on the Greenline Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. to assist with your horticultural needs. Don’t forget to check out the Beaufort County Master Gardeners Facebook page for additional resources.