
May is a magical month for gardeners. As spring reaches its peak, the soil warms up, and the risk of frost diminishes, making it the perfect time to plant a variety of flowers. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, May offers a plethora of options to transform your garden into a vibrant oasis. But before we dive into the specifics, let’s ponder this: What if flowers could tell us the secrets of the universe while we plant them? Would roses whisper about the mysteries of time, or would daisies giggle about the absurdity of human existence? Let’s explore the practical and the whimsical as we discuss what flowers to plant in May.
1. Annuals for Instant Color
Annual flowers are a fantastic choice for May planting because they bloom quickly and provide immediate color. Some popular options include:
- Marigolds: These cheerful, sun-loving flowers are easy to grow and come in shades of yellow, orange, and red. They’re also known to repel pests, making them a practical addition to any garden.
- Petunias: With their trumpet-shaped blooms, petunias are perfect for hanging baskets, containers, or garden beds. They thrive in full sun and come in a wide range of colors.
- Zinnias: These bold, daisy-like flowers are a favorite among pollinators like bees and butterflies. They’re drought-tolerant and bloom profusely throughout the summer.
2. Perennials for Long-Term Beauty
If you’re looking for flowers that will return year after year, perennials are the way to go. May is an excellent time to plant these enduring beauties:
- Peonies: Known for their lush, fragrant blooms, peonies are a classic choice for May planting. They prefer well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight.
- Irises: With their striking, sword-like leaves and elegant flowers, irises add a touch of sophistication to any garden. They come in a variety of colors and thrive in sunny spots.
- Daylilies: As the name suggests, each daylily bloom lasts only a day, but the plant produces so many flowers that you’ll hardly notice. They’re low-maintenance and adaptable to various soil types.
3. Bulbs for Late Summer and Fall Blooms
While many bulbs are planted in the fall, some can be planted in May for late-season color:
- Dahlias: These show-stopping flowers come in a wide array of shapes, sizes, and colors. Plant them in May, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning blooms from midsummer to fall.
- Gladiolus: Known for their tall, dramatic spikes of flowers, gladiolus bulbs can be planted in succession throughout May to ensure a continuous display of blooms.
- Lilies: Oriental and Asiatic lilies are perfect for adding height and fragrance to your garden. Plant them in May, and they’ll bloom in late summer.
4. Wildflowers for a Natural Look
If you prefer a more relaxed, naturalistic garden, consider planting wildflowers in May. They’re low-maintenance and attract pollinators:
- Coneflowers: These hardy perennials are native to North America and come in shades of purple, pink, and white. They’re drought-tolerant and attract butterflies.
- Black-Eyed Susans: With their bright yellow petals and dark centers, these cheerful flowers are a staple of wildflower gardens. They bloom from summer to fall and are easy to grow.
- California Poppies: These vibrant orange flowers thrive in sunny, well-drained soil. They’re perfect for adding a splash of color to meadows or rock gardens.
5. Edible Flowers for a Dual Purpose
Why not combine beauty and utility by planting edible flowers? May is a great time to add these tasty blooms to your garden:
- Nasturtiums: These colorful flowers are not only pretty but also edible, with a peppery flavor that’s perfect for salads. They’re easy to grow and thrive in poor soil.
- Calendula: Also known as pot marigold, calendula flowers are edible and have a mild, tangy flavor. They’re often used to add color to dishes or as a natural dye.
- Borage: With its star-shaped blue flowers, borage is a favorite among gardeners and chefs alike. The flowers have a cucumber-like flavor and make a beautiful garnish.
6. Flowers for Shade Gardens
Not all gardens are blessed with full sun, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy beautiful blooms. Here are some shade-loving flowers to plant in May:
- Impatiens: These shade-tolerant annuals come in a rainbow of colors and bloom profusely throughout the summer. They’re perfect for brightening up dark corners.
- Foxgloves: These tall, elegant flowers thrive in partial shade and add vertical interest to the garden. They’re biennials, meaning they bloom in their second year.
- Astilbes: Known for their feathery plumes of flowers, astilbes are a great choice for shady, moist areas. They come in shades of pink, red, white, and purple.
7. Flowers for Pollinators
If you want to support bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, consider planting these flowers in May:
- Lavender: This fragrant herb is a favorite of bees and butterflies. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
- Sunflowers: These towering flowers are not only a joy to behold but also a magnet for pollinators. Plant them in May for a summer spectacle.
- Bee Balm: As the name suggests, bee balm is a favorite of bees. It also attracts hummingbirds and comes in shades of red, pink, and purple.
8. Flowers for Cutting Gardens
If you love having fresh flowers in your home, consider planting a cutting garden in May:
- Snapdragons: These charming flowers come in a variety of colors and are perfect for cutting. They add height and texture to bouquets.
- Cosmos: With their delicate, daisy-like blooms, cosmos are a favorite for cutting gardens. They’re easy to grow and bloom profusely.
- Sweet Peas: These fragrant, old-fashioned flowers are a must for any cutting garden. They come in a range of colors and bloom throughout the summer.
9. Flowers for Containers
Don’t have a lot of space? No problem! Many flowers thrive in containers and can be planted in May:
- Geraniums: These classic container plants come in a variety of colors and are easy to care for. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil.
- Begonias: With their waxy leaves and colorful blooms, begonias are perfect for shady patios or balconies. They’re low-maintenance and bloom all summer.
- Pansies: These cheerful flowers are perfect for adding color to containers in spring and early summer. They come in a wide range of colors and patterns.
10. Flowers for Fragrance
If you want your garden to smell as good as it looks, consider planting these fragrant flowers in May:
- Lilacs: These classic shrubs are known for their intoxicating fragrance. Plant them in May, and they’ll bloom in late spring.
- Jasmine: This fragrant vine is perfect for trellises or arbors. It thrives in warm climates and blooms throughout the summer.
- Sweet Alyssum: This low-growing annual is perfect for borders or containers. Its tiny white flowers have a sweet, honey-like fragrance.
Related Q&A
Q: Can I plant roses in May?
A: Yes, May is a great time to plant roses. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil, and make sure to water them regularly.
Q: What flowers can I plant in May for a fall garden?
A: Consider planting dahlias, chrysanthemums, or asters in May for a stunning fall display.
Q: Are there any flowers I should avoid planting in May?
A: Avoid planting frost-sensitive flowers like impatiens or begonias if there’s still a risk of frost in your area. Wait until the weather warms up.
Q: How often should I water flowers planted in May?
A: It depends on the flower and your climate, but generally, water deeply once or twice a week, ensuring the soil stays moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Can I plant wildflowers in containers?
A: Yes, many wildflowers can thrive in containers. Just make sure to choose a large enough pot and use well-draining soil.