Here in North Texas, we are lucky enough to grow vegetables year-round. And because of moderate temperatures, many vegetables can be planted twice a year: early spring through late spring for a summer harvest, or mid-summer through late summer for a fall harvest. Most summer vegetables need to be planted before mid-June, so we’re in the final push for summer produce.

Some of the best flowers for Texas summer include colorful zinnias, marigolds, and sunflowers, which thrive in full sun and can handle the heat. For more heat-tolerant options, consider planting lantana, black-eyed susans, or salvia. These plants not only survive but also bloom beautifully in the hot Texas climate.

And in yards and on highways, it’s not uncommon to see the crape myrtle in full summer bloom. In 1997, the Texas legislature designated the crape myrtle as the official state shrub of Texas.

While many think of extreme heat in the summer, Texas also produces extreme beauty you simply can’t find anywhere else. From blackberries to red, ripe tomatoes and burnt orange sunsets, summer brings out true Texas colors.

The color green may be particularly synonymous with summers in Texas. Think about it: green Bermuda grass, limes for margaritas, watermelons, jalapeños, and avocados for guacamole, all while listening to music from Pat Green under the shade of a live oak.

Designer Lexi Palmer has a bit of a green thumb, having her own garden at the Plano Community Garden. It’s not uncommon to see her bring fresh lettuce, greens, onions, and tomatoes into the office that she grew herself.

Being a Native Texan with an adoration of the great outdoors, Lexi has harvested a homegrown Spire on Spotify Playlist, Vol. 42: Verdant. It is inspired by all things green to welcome the Texas summer with a fresh mix that’s not your garden variety playlist.

Lexi, what is the name of your album?

Verdant, which means green and lush.

How would you describe this mix?

Very fun and summery with upbeat vibes, definitely something you could listen to at the pool.

What was the inspiration behind it?

My favorite part of the seasons changing is everything turning green and bright, especially now that I garden. It’s so fun to see things I’ve planted growing and getting bigger and greener. It seems like every time I go to the garden at this time of year so much has changed.

What is your favorite song, and why?

The song I chose to kick off this playlist is “Sunflower” by Dizzy. It really captured the vibe I wanted, so I chose other songs based on how they measured up to this one. It’s such a fun, upbeat song with interesting lyrics (which Dizzy always brings) and it always makes me think of summer.

If your playlist was a brand, what would it be and why?

It would be Calloway’s Nursery, a North Texas plant/garden supply store. They sell healthy plants that they know will grow well in our area, and the employees are always cheerful. Being in their big greenhouse full of plants always makes me happy, just like this playlist.

Any specific memory that comes to mind when you listen?

Not a specific memory, but I love the moment every spring when I look around and the trees are green, the weather is warm, and the sun is shining. It’s always a moment that makes me smile.

What makes your playlist unique?

I’m the newest member of Spire, and based on what I’ve heard from our other playlists, I think I’m bringing a different taste in music to the table.

That’s a nice playlist that you’ve picked, Lexi. Stay tuned to the Spire Blog and Spotify Channel to see when a fresh, new playlist pops up.

Lexi Palmer is an award-winning designer at Spire, one of the country’s most-awarded B2B agencies.

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