One of the best parts of summer is the excuse we finally have to spend as much time as possible outdoors, enjoying the natural world. It turns out, some of our biggest musical artists have been just as inspired by being outside, taking a note from flowers, plants and herbs specifically. Conklyn’s Flowers has put together a floral-centric playlist of just a few of the many, many tracks devoted to the landscape we’re enjoying so much right now. Some are classics, some aren’t, but what they all have in common is an abiding appreciation for what grows in the great outdoors.

Having a barbecue? You’ll want to cue up Poison’s Every Rose Has Its Thorn STAT. This 80’s power ballad will have everyone singing along with Bret Michaels, feeling love’s burn and recalling the great hair bands of our gnarliest decade.

Slow it down with something nostalgic and sentimental like Bette Midler’s The Rose. This one is great for a misty afternoon where showers are in the forecast, and you’ve got nothing planned but staying in on the couch, watching old movies and puttering around in the kitchen while you listen to iconic songs about love and loss.

Remember The Pixies? Cactus, from the band’s seminal Surfer Rosa, is one of those spectacular angsty tunes that can get a party started or end an evening with its edgy, unforgettable rhythm.

If you crave a 60’s summer vibe, throw on Tommy James & The Shondell’s Crimson and Clover. The fuzzy, lazy feel of this track is perfect for unwinding by the pool, adult beverage in hand, with no plan at all for the rest of the afternoon.

For a romantic evening, you can’t go wrong with Jeff Buckley’s version of Lilac Wine. Sultry and passionate, Buckley’s plaintive song sounds just right at twilight, and might have you kicking off your shoes to slow dance in the grass.

And while it might not be about flowers, add Hall and Oates Sara Smile to your list. Pair with our very own Smile Awhile design, kick back and enjoy the sounds of summer.