July Gardening in Georgia: What’s Blooming & What to Plant for Fall
Summer in Georgia brings long, sun-drenched days—and if you’ve spent any time outdoors in Georgia’s Lake Country lately, you’ve likely noticed the bursts of color, fragrance, and life blooming in gardens across the community. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just looking to add curb appeal to your home, July is a pivotal time in the community garden or at home in your own yard. Here’s what’s flourishing now and what you can plant to ensure a gorgeous and productive garden come fall.
What’s Blooming in Georgia Gardens Right Now
July is peak bloom season in the South. Here’s what you’ll see thriving around Lake Oconee:
- Crepe Myrtles
A Southern staple, these vibrant trees explode in shades of pink, purple, red, and white this time of year. They’re heat-tolerant, low-maintenance, and add height and drama to any landscape. - Coneflowers (Echinacea)
These pollinator-friendly perennials are not only beautiful but also tough. They thrive in Georgia heat and attract butterflies and bees alike. - Black-Eyed Susans
Bright and cheerful, these yellow-petaled flowers are resilient in hot, dry weather and bloom throughout the summer. - Zinnias & Marigolds
These colorful annuals love the heat and bloom in bold shades all season long, making them ideal for flower beds or container gardens. - Gardenias & Hydrangeas
Gardenias offer their iconic fragrance, while hydrangeas continue to impress with their large, lush blooms, especially in shaded spots.
What to Plant Now for a Beautiful Fall Garden
Even though it’s hot outside, now is the perfect time to start planning and planting for fall. With the right choices, your yard or section in the community garden can stay colorful and vibrant well into October and November.
- Fall Annuals to Start from Seed or Transplant in August
- Pansies & Violas – Add cool-season color; start seeds indoors in July for planting in late August.
- Snapdragons – Tall and colorful, they add height to fall beds and love cooler temps.
- Ornamental Kale & Cabbage – Perfect for texture and color in fall planters and beds.
- Vegetables to Plant in Late July & August
- Collards, Kale, Mustard Greens – Thrive in the cooler temps of late summer into fall.
- Beets & Carrots – Sow seeds now for a fall harvest.
- Lettuce & Spinach – Quick growers that can be succession planted into September.
- Perennials & Shrubs to Install Now
July is also a great time to plant native perennials or add structural shrubs like:
- Russian Sage
- Coreopsis
- Boxwood or Dwarf Holly
Just be sure to water well as they establish in the summer heat.
Gardening Tips for Lake Oconee’s Climate
- Water wisely: Water early in the morning, deeply and less frequently, to encourage strong root growth.
- Mulch generously: Mulch not only keeps weeds at bay but also helps retain moisture during the hottest months.
- Watch for pests: Heat and humidity can invite insects—inspect leaves regularly and use natural deterrents when possible.
- Feed summer bloomers: A mid-season fertilizer boost can prolong blooms on annuals and flowering perennials.
Bringing Beauty to Your Backyard (and Beyond)
Whether you’re maintaining a full landscape, keeping a few container gardens on the porch, or getting your hands dirty in the Community Garden at The Grove, July is a rewarding time to get your hands in the dirt. Here at Harbor Club, the beauty of the lake is only enhanced by the vibrant gardens that surround it. With a little planning now, you can keep your landscape blooming well into fall—and enjoy the Southern outdoor lifestyle all season long.