Flowering Plants for a Northeast-Facing Patio with Late Afternoon Sun in Northern Virginia

Site Analysis

NE-facing patio with 2–4 hours of late afternoon sun = part shade. Impatiens wilt in summer heat without constant water. Begonias prefer more shade and consistent moisture — not ideal.

Better Choices for Part Sun / Heat Tolerance

• Petunias — especially wave or suprinia types; heat-tolerant, long-blooming.
• Sweet Alyssum — low, fragrant, self-sows; handles sun and heat.
• Tall Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata) — mildew-resistant cultivars; summer color.
• Bee Balm (Monarda) — pollinator favorite; part sun OK.
• Balloon Flower (Platycodon) — tough, long-lived; blooms in summer.

Resource for Plant Selection

Use Spring Hill Nursery’s plant finder to filter by light, zone, bloom time, and height.

Soil Prep Tip

Amend planting areas with compost and peat moss to improve moisture retention in bricked-in beds. Mulch 2 inches to reduce watering frequency.