Gardening in Zone 7: A Guide to Thriving Plants in Full Sun
Zone 7 is a great climate for gardening, with a long growing season and plenty of sunshine. However, not all plants can tolerate the intense sun in this zone, especially in full sun. This article will provide you with tips on how to choose the best plants for zone 7 full sun exposure, as well as some of the most popular and easy-to-grow options.
Tips for Choosing Plants for Zone 7 Full Sun
- Choose plants that are hardy to zone 7 or warmer.
- Look for plants that are labeled as “full sun” or “sun-loving.”
- Consider the amount of sunlight your garden receives each day. Some plants may need more sun than others.
- Pay attention to the soil conditions in your garden. Some plants prefer well-drained soil, while others can tolerate clay or sandy soil.
Popular and Easy-to-Grow Zone 7 Full Sun Plants
Crape Myrtle
Crape myrtle is a beautiful, showy shrub or small tree that is hardy down to zone 7. It produces stunning summer flowers in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, and white. Crape myrtle prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Italian Jasmine
Italian jasmine is a hardy, easy-to-care-for shrub that produces fragrant yellow flowers in late spring and throughout the summer. It is a great choice for adding a touch of fragrance to your garden. Italian jasmine prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Winter Honeysuckle
Winter honeysuckle is a hardy, extremely fragrant shrub that is a favorite of hummingbirds and butterflies. It produces clusters of white or pink flowers in late winter and early spring. Winter honeysuckle prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Daylily
Daylilies are versatile flowers that come in a huge range of colors. They are hardy from zone 3 through 10 and love the sun. Daylilies prefer well-drained soil and can tolerate a variety of soil conditions.
Buddleia
Also known as butterfly bush, buddleia is a hardy plant that attracts butterflies and other pollinators. It produces stunning flower spikes in shades of red, white, blue, and yellow. Buddleia prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Coreopsis
Coreopsis is a perennial groundcover that produces lots of pink or bright yellow, daisy-like flowers throughout the summer. It is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow and care for. Coreopsis prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Sunflower
Sunflowers are a popular choice for zone 7 gardens because they are easy to grow and produce large, showy flowers. While most sunflowers are annuals, there are also some perennial varieties available. Sunflowers prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
Additional Tips for Gardening in Zone 7 Full Sun
- Water your plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Mulch around your plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize your plants regularly to help them grow and bloom their best.
- Protect your plants from pests and diseases by using organic methods whenever possible.
By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden in zone 7, even in full sun.