Those of you who live in high altitude areas and nearby mountain communities have an especially short growing season.  Cold nights into June and even July may deter you from planting a garden.  However, with careful plant selection you can have just as much color in your yard as those of us at a lower elevation. 

Seek out plants that enjoy cooler conditions.  There are many perennials and annuals that will do well and bloom a long time in this type of environment.  They are often the first plants that are available in the spring. 

These plants will often have extended bloom times at higher altitudes because they are not exposed to hot afternoon temperatures as they would be at a lower elevation.  Good plant choices include: Alpine Poppies, Columbine, Dianthus, Stock, Pansies and Violas, Fuschia, Snapdragons, Osteospermum Daisies and Marguerite Daisies. 

For any questions you have on this article, or any topic of concern, email us—or better yet, come by and talk to one of our professional staff members.  Remember, Phelan Gardens is open year-round!    

For additional information, check the following links:  

• Mountain Gardening
• Flowers for Mountain Communities
• Ground Covers for Mountain Communities