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May is a magical time for gardeners in Ontario. The frost is gone, the soil is warming up, and flowers are ready to burst into color. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just starting out, this guide will help you make the most of your garden this month. Learn what to plant, how to care for your garden, and how Sunready Landscaping can help bring your outdoor space to life. We’ve expanded this article to give you even more helpful tips, suggestions, and ideas to reach a full 1000 words of inspiration and information.
Best Flowers to Plant in May
Mid-May, around Mother’s Day, is the perfect time to plant warm-season annuals. These flowers love the sun and thrive in well-drained soil. Here are some top picks that not only add color but also help deter unwanted pests like deer:
- Marigolds: Bright and cheerful with a strong scent that repels deer. Easy to grow and perfect for borders and containers.
- Zinnias: These flowers come in many vibrant colors and bloom all summer long. They’re great for cutting gardens and attract butterflies.
- Snapdragons: Tall and colorful, snapdragons are known for their unique flower shapes and deer resistance.
- Verbena: A great choice for ground cover and hanging baskets. It attracts bees and butterflies, making your garden a pollinator paradise.
- Lantana: Heat-loving and low-maintenance, lantanas are great for sunny spots and will keep blooming with minimal care.
- Petunias: A popular choice for containers and garden beds, petunias add fragrance and vivid color to any landscape.
- Geraniums: Hardy and versatile, geraniums thrive in pots and flower beds alike and offer long-lasting blooms.
Planting these flowers in May ensures they have enough time to grow, thrive, and bring joy throughout the summer.
Essential May Gardening Tasks
1. Deadhead Spent Blooms
Removing faded flowers, known as deadheading, keeps your plants healthy and encourages more blooms. For example, after peonies bloom, snip off the old flowers but leave the foliage. This lets the plant store energy for next year’s growth.
2. Water Wisely
With temperatures rising, keeping plants hydrated is important—especially those in containers. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and prevent diseases. Using mulch around plants helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool.
3. Fertilize
Feed your plants with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Organic options are gentle and support long-term soil health. Proper fertilizing helps flowers grow strong stems and vibrant blooms.
4. Weed Regularly
Weeds compete with your plants for nutrients and water. Take a few minutes each week to pull out weeds by hand or use a hoe to remove them. Staying on top of it now saves headaches later.
5. Monitor for Pests and Disease
Check your plants regularly for signs of pests or diseases. Look for holes in leaves, discolored spots, or sticky residue. Catching problems early makes them easier to treat without harsh chemicals.
6. Aerate Your Soil
If your garden soil feels compacted, it might be time to loosen things up. Use a garden fork or aerator to improve drainage and root penetration. Aerating helps plants access water and nutrients more efficiently.
7. Plant Summer Bulbs
May is also a great time to plant summer-flowering bulbs like lilies, dahlias, and gladiolus. These bulbs bring a dramatic flair to any garden and bloom later in the season, extending your flower display into late summer and early fall.
Attracting Pollinators to Your Garden
Creating a pollinator-friendly garden helps your flowers thrive and supports the local ecosystem. Choose native plants that bloom at different times throughout the growing season.
Great pollinator plants for Ontario include:
- Milkweed: A must for monarch butterflies.
- Coneflowers: Tough and beautiful, coneflowers attract bees and butterflies.
- Black-eyed Susans: Bright yellow flowers that pollinators love.
- Bee Balm: As the name suggests, bees adore this one.
Pollinators need water too, so consider adding a shallow birdbath with stones for landing spots. Avoid pesticides and opt for natural pest control methods to keep your garden safe for beneficial insects.
About Sunready Landscaping
Sunready Landscaping is a trusted name in Stouffville and the Greater Toronto Area. Since 2016, they’ve been helping homeowners and businesses create beautiful, functional outdoor spaces. Whether you want a fresh garden design or regular maintenance, Sunready can help.
Services Offered
- Landscape Design & Installation: From flower beds to complete backyard makeovers.
- Hardscaping & Carpentry: Building decks, patios, fences, and more.
- Garden Maintenance: Weeding, mulching, pruning, and seasonal cleanup.
- Holiday Lighting: Festive outdoor displays for all occasions.
With over 15 years of industry experience, Sunready Landscaping combines expert knowledge with friendly service. Their team tailors every project to the client’s vision and budget.
Why Choose Sunready Landscaping?
- Transparent pricing
- Personalized service
- Attention to detail
- Local knowledge of Ontario’s climate and plant life
If you’re looking for professional help this May, give Sunready a call at (647) 779-5798 or visit our website.
FAQs About May Flowers
Q: When is the best time to plant flowers in May?
A: Around mid-May, once the threat of frost has passed. This gives flowers time to establish roots and thrive throughout the summer.
Q: How often should I water my flowers?
A: Most flowers need watering every 2-3 days, but this depends on the weather and soil. Container plants dry out faster and may need daily watering.
Q: What are the easiest flowers to grow in May?
A: Marigolds, zinnias, and verbena are beginner-friendly and require little maintenance.
Q: How do I keep deer away from my flowers?
A: Choose deer-resistant plants like snapdragons, lantana, and marigolds. You can also use deer repellents or fencing.
Q: Do I need to fertilize my flowers?
A: Yes. A slow-release fertilizer in May helps flowers grow strong and bloom longer. Choose an organic option for best results.
Q: Can I start a flower garden from seed in May?
A: Absolutely. Many annuals can be started from seed directly in the ground in May. Read seed packets for planting depth and spacing.
FAQs About Sunready Landscaping
Q: What areas does Sunready Landscaping serve?
A: Stouffville and the Greater Toronto Area, including Markham, Richmond Hill, and Newmarket.
Q: What services do they offer?
A: Landscape design, hardscaping, garden maintenance, holiday lighting, and more.
Q: Are their services affordable?
A: Yes. Sunready offers transparent quotes with flexible solutions to match any budget.
Q: How can I contact Sunready Landscaping?
A: Call (647) 779-5798 or visit sunreadylandscaping.ca to schedule a consultation.
Get Ready for a Beautiful Summer
May is the perfect time to give your garden some love. With a little planning, you’ll enjoy vibrant blooms, buzzing pollinators, and a backyard that feels like paradise. Whether you’re preparing your garden for family gatherings or just want a peaceful retreat, there’s no better time to dig in. If you want help making your outdoor vision a reality, Sunready Landscaping is here to help.
Happy gardening!