Summer’s in full swing, and your landscape is likely bursting with life—lush, full, and soaking up the sunshine. It’s the time of year when gardens really show off, and this month’s plant highlights are no exception. Whether you're looking to add vibrant color, reliable structure, or long-lasting texture, these four standout selections are sure to elevate your outdoor space.
We’re featuring the bright and reblooming Angel of Hope Dianthus, perfect for adding cheerful pops of color all summer long. The Norway Spruce is hitting its stride, looking full, rich, and deeply green—ideal for year-round structure and privacy. Sunsparkler Lime Zinger Sedum is starting to show its signature summer color, offering a fresh and low-maintenance splash of lime and rose tones. And for those long, sunny days, the Valley Forge Elm is a summer staple, casting dense, cooling shade beneath its impressive canopy.
These plants aren’t just pretty faces—they’re hardworking additions that bring form, function, and flair to your landscape. Stop by the nursery to see them in person and chat with our team about how to make them shine in your garden. July’s the time to grow bold—let’s make it beautiful!
Angel of Hope Dianthus
Image source: Monrovia Nurseries
Description:
Striking frilly pink blooms with fuschia centers feature an exceptional fragrance. The long bloom season and evergreen foliage provide year-round interest. Compact mounds of gray-green foliage are perfect for edging borders or mixed containers. The beautiful selections in the Scent from Heaven Series have proven themselves in both cold and humid climates. Perennial.
Species Specs
Height: 15”
Spread: 15”
Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Sun
Foliage: Gray-Green
Zone: 4-9
Plant Care:
Provide enriched, neutral to slightly alkaline, loose, well-drained soil. Water deeply, regularly during the first growing season to establish an extensive root system. Once established, reduce frequency; tolerates mild drought. Apply fertilizer before new growth begins in spring. Remove spent blooms to encourage heavier blooming.
Norway Spruce
Image source: Bailey Nurseries
Description:
A stately tree with a pyramidal shape when young, and pendulous branches as it matures. The largest and fastest growing of the spruces. Large cones are attractive as Christmas ornaments. Rarely to never fed on by Japanese beetles.
Species Specs
Height: 40-80’
Spread: 25-30’
Exposure: Full Sun
Foliage: Green
Zone: 2-9
Plant Care:
Norway Spruce trees are relatively low-maintenance, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, with some tolerance for shade. They prefer slightly acidic soil and require moderate watering, especially when young, but are drought-tolerant once established. Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Pruning should be done carefully to maintain their natural pyramidal shape and avoid over-pruning, which can lead to pest and disease problems.
Sunsparkler Lime Zinger Sedum
Image source: Bailey Nurseries
Description:
Colorful new ground cover sedum offers ultra-tough, quick-spreading compact varieties with brilliantly colored foliage that stands up to hot, dry conditions. Bright lime-green foliage surrounded by a cherry-red edge on an ultra-compact habit sets 'Lime Zinger' apart.
Species Specs
Height: 4-6”
Spread: 18”
Exposure: Full Sun
Foliage: Apple green with red edge
Zone: 4-9
Plant Care:
A low-maintenance, drought-tolerant perennial that thrives in sunny locations with well-draining soil. Ensure it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily and is planted in soil that doesn't retain excess moisture. Water only when the soil is dry, and fertilize sparingly, if at all.
Valley Forge Elm
Image source: Bailey Nurseries
Description:
Selected after 20 years of testing by the U.S. National Arboretum, 'Valley Forge' has been proven to be highly resistant to Dutch elm disease, showing a 96% survival rate. Possesses the classic American elm tree shape, transplants easily, is fast growing and exhibits tolerance to salts, drought, poor soil conditions and air pollution. A great opportunity to plant an old American favorite.
Species Specs
Height: 60-70’
Spread: 60-70’
Exposure: Full Sun
Foliage: Dark Green turning to Yellow in Fall
Zone: 4-7
Plant Care:
A relatively low-maintenance and adaptable tree, but it still benefits from a few key care practices to thrive. Plant it in a spot that receives full sun or partial shade, ideally in deep, fertile, well-drained soil—though it can tolerate a range of conditions. Regular watering is important, especially during dry spells, and adding a layer of wood chips or bark mulch will help keep the root zone cool and moist. To maintain its graceful shape and avoid weak branch angles, be sure to prune as needed. With the right care, this tree can offer decades of beauty and reliable shade.