There are many very attractive bloomers that thrive in the mid-summer heat. Add vibrant reds and yellows for that weekend garden party. Place some softer pastels around your front door and back patio. And remember, summer color is not restricted to just the flower's bloom. Expand your selections to include foliage variegations and leaf textures. The following plants are some stalwart suggestions to add new life to the dog days of summer. They should be available at your local Home & Garden Showplace and may even be showing some color:

[1] Black Eyed Susan

[2] Bellflower

[3] Liatris Kolbold

[4] Coreopsis

[5] Achillea (Yarrow)

[6] Purple Coneflower

[7] Crater Lake Veronica

[8] Globe Thistle

[9] New York Aster

Not shown:

• Daylilies (in a host of colors)
• Shasta Daisy (a summer favorite)
• Japanese Iris (great for pond plantings)
• Hollyhock Pincusion Flower (blooms until frost)
• Cranesbill Geranium Snakerook (grows 4-8 tall)