Hyams Garden Center and Accent Store

Serving Greater Charleston Area with Quality, Variety & Professionalism since 1981

Gardening Tips

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Charleston Summer Colors: Bedding Plants That Beat the Heat

As the summer sun rises high over Charleston and the humidity thickens the air, many gardeners pause and wonder—what can possibly thrive in this heat?

The answer? A vibrant palette of summer bedding plants that love our Lowcountry climate and keep blooming beautifully all season long.

At Hyams Garden Center, we’re celebrating the summer garden with a curated collection of heat-tolerant, eye-catching favorites that will turn your beds, pots, and hanging baskets into a riot of color—even during the dog days.

 Marigolds: Sunshine in Bloom

Bold, golden, and cheerful, marigolds are a summer staple. Their long-lasting blooms aren’t just beautiful—they’re also a natural deterrent to garden pests. Perfect for full sun and well-drained soil, they bring both charm and practicality.

 Petunias: A Splash of Color

Whether you favor trailing varieties for baskets or compact ones for border beds, petunias are a classic for a reason. Available in just about every color imaginable, they bloom reliably through the summer with a little deadheading and love.

 Zinnias: Easy Elegance

Zinnias thrive in the heat and dazzle with their jewel-toned blooms. These low-maintenance flowers are perfect for pollinator-friendly gardens and add drama to beds or containers with minimal effort.

 Impatiens: Cool Color for the Shade

Have a shady porch or garden nook? Fill it with impatiens. These shade-loving stars come in a variety of colors and will happily brighten up areas where the sun takes a break.

 Geraniums: Old-Fashioned Favorites

Known for their vivid blooms and sturdy demeanor, geraniums are as charming in a clay pot as they are lining a garden path. Many varieties can even be brought indoors during winter, making them a lasting addition.

 Verbena: Pollinator Magnet

Delicate, lacy foliage and clusters of vibrant blooms make verbena a standout. These sun-loving plants are a favorite of butterflies and hummingbirds, adding motion and life to your garden.

Hot Tip: Mix these heat-lovers in your containers and beds for a layered, colorful effect that carries your garden right through the Charleston summer. Don’t forget to mulch generously and water consistently to keep roots cool and happy.

Visit Hyams Garden Center to see these beauties in full bloom and let our team help you choose the best combinations for your space. Whether you’re planting a pollinator patch, brightening up a porch, or filling in garden gaps, we have everything you need to keep your summer garden thriving.

Let your garden glow this summer—come grow with us!

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How to Protect Your Garden, Trees & Shrubs during the Charleston Summer

As Charleston rolls into peak summer—with soaring temps, relentless humidity, and sun that just doesn’t quit—our gardens can start to feel the stress. But with a few thoughtful strategies, you can help your plants not only survive, but thrive.

At Hyams Garden Center, we’re here to guide you through the hottest months with expert advice and the right tools to keep your landscape lush and resilient.

 1. Water Deeply, Not Frequently

It’s tempting to water every day, but shallow watering leads to shallow roots. Instead, water deeply 2–3 times per week. This encourages roots to grow downward, where the soil stays cooler and moisture lasts longer. Early morning is best to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.

Hyams Tip: Install a soaker hose or drip irrigation system for consistent, targeted watering that saves time and water.

 2. Mulch is Your Garden’s Best Friend

A 2–3 inch layer of mulch helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Organic mulches like pine bark or pine straw are excellent choices in the Lowcountry.

Bonus: As it breaks down, mulch improves soil health—especially important in Charleston’s sandy soils.

 3. Protect Young Trees & Shrubs

Newly planted trees and shrubs are especially vulnerable. Shield them with shade cloth during extreme heatwaves, and water at the root zone—not the leaves. Avoid pruning in high summer, as this can stress plants and expose tender growth to sun scorch.

 4. Feed Strategically

Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers during peak heat. Instead, choose slow-release or organic options that gently nourish without promoting tender, thirsty growth. For trees and shrubs, mid-to-late summer feeding with a balanced fertilizer can strengthen roots going into fall.

 5. Mind the Pots and Containers

Potted plants dry out faster and heat up quickly. Group containers together in partial shade, and consider double-potting (placing the nursery pot inside a larger decorative one with insulation in between). Use a water-retaining soil mix for extra moisture control.

 6. Stay Ahead of Pests & Stress

Heat-weakened plants are more vulnerable to insects and disease. Check regularly for signs of stress like wilting, leaf scorch, or discolored foliage. Bring a sample to Hyams and let our team help diagnose the issue and suggest safe, effective treatments.

Charleston summers may be intense, but your garden doesn’t have to suffer.
With the right care—and a little help from your friends at Hyams—your trees, shrubs, and blooms can beat the heat and keep your outdoor space looking vibrant all season long.

📍 Stop by today for expert advice, quality mulch, watering tools, pest solutions, and all your summer gardening essentials.

Let’s grow smart this summer—together.

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Plant of the Year 2025

Brunnera Macrophylla ‘Jack of Diamonds’ is the Plant of the Year for 2025, celebrated for its bold foliage and charming spring blooms. This shade-loving perennial features large, silver leaves with dramatic dark green veins, offering a striking visual appeal in gardens. In mid-to-late spring, its delicate baby blue, forget-me-not-like flowers add a touch of elegance, making it a perfect choice for shaded borders and woodland settings.

This plant may face challenges in Charleston’s climate, as it prefers cooler conditions and partial to full shade. While it can grow in USDA zones 3-8, Charleston (in zone 8b) might be on the warmer edge of its tolerance. If planted, it should be placed in shaded areas with consistently moist soil and protection from the intense summer heat to ensure its health.

Brunnera Macrophylla ‘Jack of Diamonds’:

  1. Placement: Plant in a shaded or partially shaded area, such as under trees or on the north side of buildings, to protect it from intense afternoon sun.
  2. Soil: Ensure the soil is rich, consistently moist, and well-draining. Add organic mulch around the plant base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
  3. Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, especially during Charleston’s hot summers.
  4. Heat Protection: Use a layer of mulch to cool the roots and reduce water evaporation. Provide extra shade during the peak summer months if necessary.
  5. Maintenance: Prune back dead leaves and spent flowers to maintain its appearance. Monitor for slugs, which can be a problem in moist environments.

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Flower of the Year 2025

Sunflowers have been crowned the Flower of the Year for 2025, symbolizing warmth, resilience, and optimism. Their vibrant yellow petals evoke feelings of joy and positivity, making them a timeless favorite for gardens and floral arrangements. Whether planted to brighten landscapes or used as cheerful décor, sunflowers continue to captivate enthusiasts with their enduring beauty and significance.

Sunflowers thrive in Charleston, South Carolina, due to the region’s warm, sunny climate and well-drained soil. They grow best in full sun and are highly tolerant of the summer heat and humidity typical of Charleston. Ensure they are planted in a spot with at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily and provide moderate watering.

Sunflowers:

  1. Planting: Choose a location with full sun exposure, ensuring at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Well-draining soil is essential to prevent root rot.
  2. Soil Preparation: Add organic matter, like compost, to improve soil fertility. Sunflowers prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.5).
  3. Watering: Water deeply but infrequently. Allow the topsoil to dry between waterings to encourage deep root growth. Avoid overwatering, especially in Charleston’s humid conditions.
  4. Pest Management: Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids or caterpillars. Use organic pest control methods, such as neem oil, if needed.
  5. Support: For taller varieties, stake the plants to protect them from Charleston’s coastal winds.