There’s simply nothing like summer. Beautiful weather, longer days, vacations from work and school – and lots of time spent outdoors. Many of us use this opportunity to decorate our patios, porches and yards with flowers and plants that bring the spaces to life. Whether lush greenery or vibrant blooms, outdoor plants are a versatile and creative way to accessorize and decorate.

Many people utilize Boston ferns to dress up decks and porches during the long summer months. They grow exceptionally well in humidity, as they are native to sub tropical and tropical rain forests. In addition to the humid conditions of the forest, the ferns thrive in indirect sunlight, as they would be used to sun filtering through the canopy. Because they do best in temperatures over 70, the warm nights of summer are perfect.

Hanging Boston Fern

If you love the idea of hanging baskets, but want a bit more color, there are many vibrant summer flowers that can bring color to your outdoor spaces. These flowers drape well over the side of baskets and love the outdoors – whether you hang them from a porch rail or a shepherds hook. Flowers like lobelia, which come on many rich colors; nemesia offers sprawling, dark green foliage with small, purple-blue blooms. You may also consider the gorgeous hydrangea – it grows well in morning sun and afternoon shade, so a basket container is a great way to decorate your yard or patio.

Hope’s hydrangea

Outdoor plants and flowers provide a vivid way to adorn your outdoor spaces. Whether you choose to hang baskets, arrange potted plants or fill gardens with seasonal plantings, Nanz & Kraft has three locations in Louisville that can help you in your decision process. We love being outdoors in the summer – Nanz & Kraft can help you make your personal oasis as beautiful as you like.