Vegetables and herbs aren't my only garden all-stars. Over the last few years, I've worked tirelessly to find and plant drought-tolerant flowers and plants that will remain happy, even when the weather is muggy and hot. Violas and pansies still have a small spot in the spring and fall garden, but more and more I'm planting native plants that enjoy the swamp-like summers. Black Eyed Susans are Maryland's state flower, and they thrive in the heat.
Queen Sophia Marigolds are easy to grow from seed, and serve as a natural pest deterrent!
Black Violas didn't make it through July, but they are a new staple in the garden.
Daisies encourage pollinators to visit.
Some of the vegetables and herbs are producing dynamite flowers too. These have been a hit with my local pollinators!