By July, many western Massachusetts gardens are transitioning from spring blooms into the heart of summer. While some early flowers begin to fade, many dependable perennials continue blooming for weeks, providing beautiful color while supporting bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other beneficial pollinators.
Adding a variety of long-blooming perennials keeps your landscape vibrant now and well into fall.
Coneflower (Echinacea)
Coneflowers are one of the most dependable summer perennials.
They provide:
- Weeks of colorful blooms
- Excellent drought tolerance
- Seed heads for songbirds
- Outstanding pollinator value
Available in purple, white, pink, orange, and yellow, they’re perfect for sunny Massachusetts gardens.
Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan)
These cheerful golden flowers:
- Bloom from mid-summer through fall
- Thrive in full sun
- Attract bees and butterflies
- Pair beautifully with ornamental grasses
Their bright blooms are a classic addition to New England landscapes.
Sedum (Stonecrop)
Sedum begins putting on a beautiful display just as early summer flowers begin slowing down.
Benefits include:
- Succulent foliage
- Late-season blooms
- Drought tolerance
- Pollinator-friendly flowers
- Attractive winter seed heads
Salvia
Salvia continues blooming throughout summer with occasional deadheading.
It offers:
- Bright flower spikes
- Heat tolerance
- Hummingbird attraction
- Long-lasting blooms
Coreopsis
Coreopsis provides cheerful daisy-like flowers for much of the growing season.
Regular deadheading encourages continuous blooms while providing nectar for pollinators.
Asters
Although known for their spectacular fall display, July is a great time to add asters to your landscape.
They provide:
- Purple, pink, blue, and white flowers
- Valuable late-season nectar
- Beautiful combinations with ornamental grasses
Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental grasses add:
- Texture
- Movement
- Fall color
- Winter interest
They pair beautifully with flowering perennials for season-long beauty.
Plant for Pollinators
Combining coneflowers, Rudbeckia, sedum, salvia, coreopsis, asters, and ornamental grasses creates a landscape that provides continuous nectar for:
- Bees
- Butterflies
- Hummingbirds
- Beneficial insects
Your garden will remain colorful while supporting local wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which perennial blooms the longest?
Coneflowers, Coreopsis, and Salvia provide weeks of colorful blooms.
Are these good for pollinators?
Yes. They provide nectar throughout the growing season.
Do ornamental grasses require much maintenance?
Very little. Most are cut back in late winter or early spring.
Can I plant perennials in July?
Yes. With consistent watering, many perennials establish well during summer.
Which perennial attracts butterflies?
Coneflowers, Rudbeckia, asters, sedum, and salvia are excellent choices.
Visit Us
Looking to add lasting color to your landscape? Sixteen Acres Garden Center offers beautiful flowering perennials, ornamental grasses, native plants, and pollinator-friendly favorites to keep your garden blooming from summer through fall.
Sixteen Acres Garden Center
1359 Wilbraham Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Phone: (413) 783-5883
Summer Hours
Monday, Tuesday, Saturday & Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday, Thursday & Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Stop by and let our knowledgeable team help you choose the perfect perennials for season-long beauty.

