May in the Garden
Hardy summer flowering annuals like petunias, pansies, snapdragons can be planted early in the month, but wait a bit before planting geraniums, impatiens, and fuchsias. By the end of May, you can put in your zinnias, lobelias, marigolds, salvias, and all the rest. If you just couldn't wait, and have them planted already, be sure to cover them at night if a late spring frost is forecast.
Plant your summer bulbs if you didn't get to it in April. The tender bulbs should go in mid-to late May.
Spring- and summer-flowering perennials can be planted this month also.
Replace any shrubs or woody plants that have died from frost damage or winter-kill. Plants bought in containers can be re-planted anytime.
When you are sure that the cold nights are finished, you can put out your containers and hanging baskets.
The warm weather vegetables (tomatoes, cucumber, peppers, squash) can be planted mid to late May. Most of the rest of your vegetables can be planted now.
Be sure to clean your garden tools before you put them away!
May is a perfect time to walk around your yard and see where bare spots in your borders and beds might need filling in. You don't have to have only plants in your beds--try a garden sculpture, a water feature, a gazing ball, or anything that you feel makes a "statement" in your garden.
For more detailed information on gardening and lawn care in your area, contact:
http://www.yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu or your county extension office
Iowa Master Gardener Program (Call us with your questions 10am to noon and 1-4:30pm, M-F--515-294-3108 or contact us via e-mail: hortline@iastate.edu)
Your local garden center.
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