Low-maintenance shrubs that can be planted in summer are hardy, drought-tolerant varieties that can handle heat and occasional dry spells. While summer planting can be challenging due to higher temperatures and stress on new roots, these shrubs are resilient and can establish well if given proper care, like consistent watering during their first few weeks.
Evergreen shrubs are often a good choice for summer planting because they maintain foliage and can withstand heat better than delicate, newly sprouting deciduous shrubs. Examples include boxwood, juniper, and certain types of holly. These plants are generally slow-growing, reducing the need for frequent pruning or care.
Flowering shrubs with deep root systems also adapt well to summer planting. Many species, such as butterfly bush or hibiscus, are drought-tolerant once established and can thrive in hot, sunny conditions. Their hardiness and minimal care needs make them ideal for gardeners seeking low-maintenance options.
Proper planting techniques are key to helping shrubs survive summer conditions. Preparing soil by loosening it and adding organic matter improves water retention, while mulching around the base keeps roots cool and prevents moisture loss. Regular watering during the first few weeks after planting is essential to prevent transplant shock.
Low Maintenance Shrubs that Can Be Planted In Summer
Boxwood (Buxus spp.)
Boxwoods are evergreen shrubs known for their dense foliage and ability to tolerate heat once established. They require minimal pruning and adapt well to various soil types. Boxwoods are excellent for hedges or borders and need only occasional watering during dry spells. They are resistant to most pests and diseases, making them a reliable low-maintenance choice.
Hydrangea (Hydrangea spp.)
Hydrangeas offer large, vibrant blooms and can thrive in both sun and partial shade. Once planted, they need moderate watering and minimal fertilization. Pruning is mostly seasonal, making them easy to care for. They also tolerate summer heat fairly well if watered properly. Their colorful flowers can brighten any garden with little effort.
Spirea (Spiraea spp.)
Spireas are hardy, flowering shrubs that handle heat and drought well. They require minimal pruning, mainly to shape after blooming. Spireas are adaptable to many soil types and resist most pests. Their bright flower clusters attract pollinators, adding beauty without heavy upkeep. They are ideal for borders and foundation plantings.
Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
Lavender is a fragrant shrub that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and requires very little watering once established. Pruning once a year keeps it compact and encourages flowering. Lavender is low-maintenance and attracts pollinators, making it perfect for summer planting. Its aromatic leaves also repel certain pests.
Juniper (Juniperus spp.)
Junipers are evergreen shrubs that tolerate heat, poor soil, and drought conditions. They require almost no pruning unless shaping is desired. Junipers are pest-resistant and have a long lifespan. They are ideal for ground cover, slopes, or hedges. Their low maintenance makes them a great option for summer gardens.
Barberry (Berberis spp.)
Barberries are colorful shrubs with red or purple foliage that withstand full sun and dry conditions. They require little attention once established and are disease-resistant. Pruning is minimal and mainly for shaping or removing old growth. They are perfect for borders or foundation plantings. Their berries add interest to the garden in fall and winter.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Rosemary is a drought-tolerant evergreen shrub with aromatic leaves and small flowers. It thrives in hot, sunny conditions and well-drained soil. Minimal pruning helps maintain shape, and it requires little fertilization. Rosemary also doubles as a culinary herb, adding value to low-maintenance landscaping. Its toughness makes it perfect for summer planting.
Weigela (Weigela florida)
Weigelas are flowering shrubs that tolerate heat and partial shade. They need moderate watering and little fertilization. Pruning after blooming encourages new growth and more flowers. Weigelas are low-maintenance, attract hummingbirds, and bring vibrant color to gardens. They adapt well to different soil types.
Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius)
Ninebark is a tough, deciduous shrub that withstands heat, drought, and poor soil. Its peeling bark provides winter interest, while clusters of flowers bloom in summer. Pruning is optional and mostly for shaping or removing dead branches. Ninebark is low-maintenance and suitable for hedges, slopes, or naturalized areas.
Potentilla (Potentilla fruticosa)
Potentilla shrubs are hardy, low-maintenance plants with small flowers that bloom from spring to fall. They tolerate heat, poor soil, and drought conditions. Minimal pruning helps maintain a neat shape. Potentillas are disease-resistant and attract pollinators. They are ideal for borders, slopes, or rock gardens.
Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)
Crape myrtles are heat-loving shrubs with long-lasting summer blooms. They tolerate drought and poor soil once established. Light pruning in late winter or early spring maintains shape and encourages flowering. These shrubs are low-maintenance and bring vibrant color to the garden. Their exfoliating bark also adds winter interest.
Viburnum (Viburnum spp.)
Viburnums are versatile shrubs that tolerate sun, heat, and a range of soil types. They require minimal pruning and are mostly disease-resistant. Many varieties produce fragrant flowers or colorful berries. Viburnums are low-maintenance, adding both beauty and structure to gardens. They also attract birds and pollinators.
Forsythia (Forsythia spp.)
Forsythias are deciduous shrubs known for their bright yellow spring blooms, but they handle summer heat well once established. They require minimal watering and little fertilization. Light pruning after flowering keeps them tidy and encourages new growth. Forsythias are hardy, low-maintenance, and can be used as hedges or specimen plants.
Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii)
Butterfly bushes are fast-growing, heat-tolerant shrubs that attract butterflies and pollinators. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, requiring minimal care once established. Pruning in early spring promotes abundant flowering. These shrubs are drought-resistant and ideal for summer gardens. Their long flower spikes add color and visual interest.
Dwarf Nandina (Nandina domestica ‘Compacta’)
Dwarf nandina, or heavenly bamboo, is an evergreen shrub that tolerates heat and sun. It requires little maintenance, just occasional trimming to shape. Its red foliage in summer and berries in winter add year-round interest. Dwarf nandina is adaptable to many soil types and resistant to most pests. Perfect for borders or container planting.
Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
Russian sage is a drought-tolerant, flowering shrub with silvery foliage and lavender-blue flowers. It thrives in full sun and poor soil, making it ideal for hot summer planting. Minimal pruning in early spring encourages new growth. This shrub is low-maintenance, deer-resistant, and attracts pollinators. Its airy structure adds a soft texture to gardens.
Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster spp.)
Cotoneasters are hardy shrubs that tolerate heat, sun, and poor soil. They produce small berries that attract birds and add winter interest. Pruning is minimal and mostly for shape or removing old wood. Cotoneasters are drought-tolerant once established and low-maintenance. They are excellent for hedges, ground cover, or slopes.
Deutzia (Deutzia spp.)
Deutzias are flowering shrubs that bloom in late spring to summer and tolerate full sun. They require little care besides occasional pruning after flowering to maintain shape. Deutzias adapt to a variety of soil types and resist most pests and diseases. Their clusters of small, star-shaped flowers brighten gardens without demanding much attention.