Bring on the May Flowers!

In this blog, we explore the best flowers to plant in Florida in May, including annuals and perennials, and offer tips on how to care for your garden during the month to keep it looking vibrant and healthy all season long.

Spring is in full swing, and May is the perfect time to add vibrant colors to your Florida garden. With the warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, you can start planting an array of beautiful flowers that will thrive throughout the season. But with so many options, it can be tough to know where to start. This blog will discuss the difference between annuals and perennials, the best flowers to plant now, and what else you should be planning for this month.

Annuals vs. Perennials

Before we dive into the best flowers to plant in May, it’s essential to understand the difference between annuals and perennials.

Annuals are plants that complete their life cycle in one growing season. They typically bloom all season long and then die off when the cold weather arrives. Perennials, on the other hand, are plants that come back year after year. They go dormant in the winter and then come back to life in the spring. While annuals are often cheaper and provide instant gratification with their fast growth and beautiful blooms, perennials offer long-lasting beauty and require less maintenance.

Best Flowers to Plant in May

Now that we’ve covered the difference between annuals and perennials, let’s look at some of the best flowers to plant in Florida in May.

• Zinnias: These hardy annuals are easy to grow and come in a variety of bright colors. They’re also great for attracting pollinators to your garden.
• Marigolds: Another easy-to-grow annual, marigolds come in shades of yellow, orange, and red and bloom all summer. They’re great at repelling pests like aphids and mosquitoes, making them a valuable addition to any garden.
• Coneflowers: These are hardy perennials that bloom from early summer through fall. They also attract bees and butterflies, making them an excellent choice for pollinator-friendly gardens.
• Black-eyed Susans: Another hardy perennial, black-eyed Susans are known for their bright yellow flowers with dark centers. They will bloom all summer long and are great at attracting pollinators.
• Salvias: These popular perennials bloom in shades of blue, purple, pink, and red. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil.

What to Plan for This Month

May is a great time to get your garden in shape for the summer months. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Watering: Plants need more water to stay hydrated in warmer temperatures. Make sure to water them deeply once or twice a week, depending on the rainfall in your area.
2. Fertilizing: May is a good time to fertilize your garden and give your plants the nutrients they need to thrive throughout the season. Make sure to follow the instructions on package labels, as over-fertilizing can harm your plants.
3. Pruning: May is a great time to prune back any dead or damaged growth from your plants. This will help promote new growth and keep your garden tidy.
4. Pest Control: Watch for warm-weather pests like aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. These can cause damage to your plants and spread diseases. If you notice any signs of infestation, treat them immediately.

May is a wonderful time to plant beautiful flowers in your Florida garden. Whether you opt for annuals or perennials, plenty of options will thrive in the warm weather. Remember to plan for other gardening tasks like watering, fertilizing, pruning, and pest control to keep your garden healthy and vibrant all season long. So bring on the May flowers and enjoy the beauty of your garden!