The summer season is a time for vacations, outdoor activities, and enjoyment. But summer in the UAE is different as the temperature may rise to 45°C. This can adversely affect you and your plants. You know what to do in a hot climate. So, let's talk about plants. There are certain plants that are apt for the UAE climate. They require only minimal watering and maintenance. These plants can be a treat for your eyes and bring freshness to your garden or balcony even in the summer. The blog will guide you through the best outdoor plants for summer.
What makes a plant suitable for summer?
Not every plant can survive in a hot climate. To survive in such a climate, a plant needs to have certain characteristics that help it cope with intense sunlight, limited water, and soil conditions. Let's take a look at those characteristics.
- Ability to withstand long hours of sunlight and high temperature.
- Drought-resistant and ability to survive with minimal watering .
- Able to grow on sandy or rocky soils.
- Don't require daily watering or constant attention.
- Adapt to different growing conditions
Best outdoor plants for summer
Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea is one of the most popular outdoor plants for summer. It is known for its paper-like flowers in shades of pink, purple, white, and orange. This plant can be grown in gardens, balconies, and on walls.
It thrives in full sunlight, making it ideal for the harsh summer climate. Bougainvillea requires only minimal water and care. It’s a beautiful, low-maintenance option for brightening up any outdoor space.
Neem tree
The neem tree is a strong choice for outdoor plants in Dubai. It is known for its resilience and can withstand extreme heat. Apart from providing shade, the neem tree has natural air-purifying qualities and is well-known for repelling insects. It’s a low-maintenance tree that grows steadily and contributes to a cooler, healthier environment around your home or garden.
Date Palm
The date palm is not only a symbol of the UAE’s cultural heritage but is also a valuable addition to large gardens. This tree thrives in full sun and sandy soil, making it perfectly suited to the climate. It requires regular watering during the initial growth phase but afterward it is not necessary. Its minimal maintenance needs and strong heat resistance make it a favourite for summer garden plants across the UAE.
Desert Rose
The desert rose is a plant known for its bright, trumpet-shaped flowers and thick, swollen stems that store water. This helps it survive in hot, dry climates. Its appearance makes it a favourite among summer outdoor plants.
Ideal for pots and gardens, the desert rose thrives in full sunlight and requires minimal watering. It’s a low-maintenance beauty that brings colour to any outdoor space, even in summer.
Plumeria
Plumeria, also known as Frangipani, is one of the summer outdoor plants famous for its beautifully scented flowers that bloom in shades of white, yellow, pink, and red. Commonly seen in gardens, resorts, and courtyards, it brings a tropical, peaceful vibe to any space.
This sun-loving plant can thrive in the UAE’s hot climate, easily handling full sunlight and dry conditions. Plumeria requires only light watering and occasional pruning to keep its shape.
Tecoma
Tecoma is a fast-growing plant known for its bright yellow trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom throughout the summer. It makes your outdoor space colourful and is especially popular as a decorative hedge or border plant.
Tecoma can thrive in extreme heat, making it apt for the UAE climate. It is an excellent choice for those looking for summer garden plants that grow fast and with low maintenance.
Flame Tree
The flame tree, also known as Royal Poinciana, is admired for its red flowers that bloom during the summer. The tree offers beauty and shade and is ideal for large spaces such as villas, parks, or community gardens. It thrives in full sun and adapts well to the UAE’s hot, dry climate.
Ixora
Ixora is known for its colourful flowers in shades of red, yellow, orange, and pink. These flowers will be an addition to your garden throughout the summer. It thrives in full sunlight but requires regular watering to bloom flowers. The plant is suitable for villa gardens and borders due to its neat appearance and long flowering season.
Care tips for outdoor plants in the summer
Here are some simple yet effective tips to take care of your plants:
Water your plants early in the morning or late in the evening when the temperatures are cooler. This reduces water loss due to evaporation and helps plants absorb moisture more effectively.
Use large pots or containers with proper drainage holes to prevent waterlogging and ensure healthy root growth.
Adding a layer of mulch helps retain moisture in the soil, keeps the roots cool, and reduces the need for frequent watering.
Feed your plants with a balanced fertilizer once a month to support growth and flowering during intense heat.
Regularly remove dry or dead leaves and keep an eye out for pests or diseases. Clean and inspect your outdoor plants often to keep them in top shape.
Gardening in the UAE’s hot summer might seem challenging, but with the right choices and care, it’s possible. By selecting hardy outdoor plants that thrive in high temperatures and dry conditions, you can keep your garden or balcony green even in the hot months.
Ad Plants is a plant shop in UAE, offering a wide range of summer-friendly outdoor plants perfectly suited to the UAE climate. Let us help you buy plants online Dubai and turn your space into a cool and refreshing area, even in peak summer.