As the weather warms and spring takes its final bow, many gardeners turn their attention to flowers that shine in May. Planting flowering crops in early spring ensures a vibrant display throughout the summer months. Whether you're keen on bold colors, delicate blooms, or buzzing pollinators, there's a myriad of flowers to start in May that will transform your garden into a enchanting oasis.
May is an exciting time for gardeners, as it signifies the transition from cool-season crops to warm-season plants. This includes a diverse range of flowers that can brighten up your garden landscape and attract scores of beneficial insects. Let's dive into the world of May-flowering blooms and discover the most stunning options to grace your garden this season.
Annual Flowers for Instant Color
Annual flowers are a gardener's best friend, providing an instant pop of color and requiring minimal effort. Plant them directly in the soil after the last frost and enjoy brightly colored blooms all season long. Here are two fabulous annual flowers to start in May:
Zinnias ('State Fair'}
Zinnias are native to North America and are beloved for their vivid, long-lasting blooms. The 'State Fair' series boasts a uniform, compact habit and a wide array of colors, from cherry red to sunshine yellow. Their vibrant flowers attract pollinators and can grow up to 24 inches tall, making them perfect for borders, cottage gardens, or mass planting.
To grow, sow seeds generously in rows in early May, or late April in warmer regions. Thin to 12-18 inches apart when seedlings are 3-4 inches tall. Zinnias perform best in full sun and well-draining soil. Water consistently, but allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Marigolds ('First Lady'}
Marigolds are another annual favorite that packs a colorful punch. The 'First Lady' series features novelty, double-blooming flowers that come in various shades of yellow, orange, and white. Reaching heights of 12-18 inches, they are ideal for beds, borders, or containers. Plus, they're virtually pest-free and easy to grow.
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, or sow directly in the garden in early May. Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 12-18 inches apart. Marigolds favor full sun and regular watering. To keep plants blooming throughout the season, deadhead spent flowers and remove any yellowing leaves.
Perennial Flowers for Long-Term Beauty
Perennial flowers are a wise investment, as they return year after year with minimal effort. Plant these beauties in early May for a stunning display that will last for seasons to come. Let's explore two exceptional perennial flowers:
Coneflowers (Echinacea)
Coneflowers, also known as purple coneflowers, are hardy, drought-tolerant perennials that bloom from summer through fall.Native to North America, they display an emphasizing flower that attracts pollinators and supports local wildlife. The 'PowWow Wild Berry' series features a stunning array of pink, purple, and white blooms that reach up to 36 inches tall.
Plant coneflower seedlings in early May in full sun to partial shade. Choose a location with well-draining soil and excellent airflow. Space plants 18-24 inches apart and water consistently until established. To promote successive blooming, deadhead spent flowers and divide plants every 3-5 years for optimal performance.
Black-Eyed Susans (Rudbeckia)
Black-Eyed Susans are another sun-loving perennial that brightens up gardens with their daisy-like blooms. The 'Indian Summer' series offers an extended bloom time, with vibrant yellow petals surrounding dark centers. These robust plants grow up to 24 inches tall and create a bold statement in beds, borders, or cut flower arrangements.
Plant black-eyed Susan seedlings in early May, providing them with full sun and well-draining soil. Space plants 18-24 inches apart and supply consistent moisture, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. To encourage repeat blooming, trim back spent flowers and divide plants every 2-3 years to maintain vigor.
Incorporating May's finest flowers into your garden will result in a stunning, vibrant display that delights both humans and pollinators alike.