Summer can be miserable for us humans, especially with humidity. Thankfully, some plants do not mind! Let's take a look at some plants that can take the heat.
1. Sunflowers
Zones 2 - 11
Sunflowers are hardy and versatile plants. Scientists have used them to clean nuclear radiation! As if that was not enough, every part of sunflowers are edible and most varieties are heat and drought tolerant. Because of their protein-packed seeds, the primary threat to sunflowers are pests.
As long as sunflowers get at least six hours of sun and occasional watering, they will grow. Some varieties may even come back for many years.
2. Basil
Zones 2 - 11
Basil is a versatile plant and has a good tolerance for both heat and moderate cold, as long as it gets enough water. Most basil varieties need at least six hours of sunlight to thrive. While basil can grow in shade, it tends to be more prolific and has better flavor if it is grown in the sun.
In particularly hot or cold areas, most varieties behave as annuals. In temperate areas or grown in a container, basil has the potential to be a luscious perennial.
3. Okra
Zones 6 - 11
Okra adores the heat and sun. It needs at least six hours of sun and warm temperatures to thrive. It does not need a lot of attention or water. Okra's main threat is cold weather, which causes wilt. Likewise, okra will not survive a frost.
If you want to have okra to eat through the winter, it is best to grow it during its normal season and either can or freeze it. While some varieties of okra can be grown in containers and indoors, it is not easy.
4. Peppers
Zones 4 -11
It seems pretty natural that hot peppers would not mind the heat, but bell peppers are also heat tolerant. As long as peppers are warm, have damp soil and six hours of sun, they will happily grow and produce.
Variety has a large impact on what temperature the peppers thrive in. If you are particularly concerned about heat, bell peppers, jalapeños and habaneros may be a good place to start.
5. Bamboo
Zones 6 - 10
Yes- bamboo is heat tolerant! While it might not be top of mind when you think of plants that enjoy the heat, bamboo grows in the summer. Tropical bamboos not only like the heat, but they do not mind the humidity either.
If you buy a bamboo plant from your local store and you suspect it has been growing indoors, check its variety. Regardless, if you plan to move a bamboo to grow outdoors, make sure you properly acclimate it.