May heralds the peak of spring, a time when gardens burst forth with vibrant colors and lush foliage. As the days lengthen and the temperatures rise, it's the perfect opportunity to expand and enhance your garden. Knowing what to plant in May can ensure a bountiful and beautiful garden throughout the growing season.

Annual Flowers: May is an ideal time to sow or transplant annual flowers that thrive in the warmer weather. Consider planting marigolds, zinnias, cosmos, and petunias to add pops of color to your garden beds and containers. These flowers not only brighten up your outdoor space but also attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Vegetables: Get your vegetable garden off to a great start by planting warm-season crops in May. Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, squash, and beans can all be planted now for a summer harvest. Make sure to provide adequate support for vining plants like tomatoes and cucumbers to help them grow upright and produce abundant yields.

Herbs: Fresh herbs add flavor and fragrance to your culinary creations. May is an excellent time to plant herbs such as basil, parsley, cilantro, dill, and mint. These herbs thrive in the warm weather and can be harvested throughout the summer for use in your favorite dishes.

Perennials: While many perennials can be planted in the spring, May is particularly suitable for planting heat-loving varieties. Consider adding perennials like lavender, salvia, yarrow, and coreopsis to your garden for long-lasting blooms and low-maintenance beauty.

Bulbs: Although spring-flowering bulbs are typically planted in the fall, May is a great time to plant summer-flowering bulbs for a later-season display. Dahlias, gladiolus, lilies, and begonias can all be planted now to provide stunning blooms in the coming months.

Fruit Trees and Shrubs: If you're looking to add fruit to your garden, May is a good time to plant fruit trees and shrubs. Consider varieties such as apple, peach, cherry, blueberry, raspberry, and blackberry. Proper planting and care can lead to a fruitful harvest in the years to come.

By strategically choosing what to plant in May, you can create a garden that is not only visually appealing but also productive and rewarding. Whether you're growing flowers, vegetables, herbs, or fruit, May is a time of opportunity and growth in the garden. Happy planting!