What To Plant In May Upper Midwest
Springtime is the perfect time to start planning and planting your garden. If you live in the upper Midwest, May is an ideal month to get started. The weather is mild, and the days are getting longer. But what should you plant? Here are some ideas to get your green thumb moving.
1. Cool-Season Vegetables
May is an excellent time to plant cool-season vegetables in the upper Midwest. These are vegetables that prefer cooler temperatures and can tolerate light frost. Some examples of cool-season vegetables include lettuce, spinach, kale, collard greens, peas, and radishes. These plants will grow well with daytime temperatures in the 60s and nighttime temperatures in the 40s.
You can start your cool-season vegetables indoors and transplant them outside once the threat of frost has passed. You can also direct sow them outside if you prefer. Plant them in loose, well-draining soil and water them regularly.
2. Warm-Season Vegetables
If you're looking to plant warm-season vegetables, wait until later in May when the soil has had a chance to warm up. These are vegetables that prefer warmer temperatures and cannot tolerate frost. Examples of warm-season vegetables include tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, zucchini, and sweet corn. These plants will grow well with daytime temperatures in the 70s and nighttime temperatures in the 50s or higher.
Start your warm-season vegetables indoors six to eight weeks before planting or purchase seedlings from a local nursery. Plant them in a sunny area with well-draining soil and support structures for plants like peppers, cucumbers or beans.
3. Annual Flowers
May is also a good time to plant annual flowers. These are flowers that grow and bloom for one season only. Some examples of annual flowers include marigolds, petunias, snapdragons, and impatiens. They add color and beauty to your garden while attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Annual flowers are easy to plant and care for. They prefer well-draining soil and regular watering. Most annuals appreciate being deadheaded, or removing spent blooms, which encourages new growth and more flowers.
4. Perennial Flowers
Perennial flowers are another option for those looking for low-maintenance garden plants. These are flowers that come back year after year. Some examples of perennial flowers include black-eyed susans, coneflowers, daylilies, and hostas. They tend to have a longer blooming period than annuals and require minimal maintenance once established.
Plant perennial flowers in the spring or fall. They prefer well-draining soil and regular watering but can tolerate periods of drought once established.
5. Herbs
A herb garden is a great addition to any yard, balcony or window sill. Herbs are easy to grow and add flavor to your meals. Some examples of herbs that can be grown in the upper Midwest include basil, chives, cilantro, dill, and parsley. They prefer well-draining soil and regular watering.
To start your herb garden, you can purchase seedlings from a local nursery or start them from seeds indoors six to eight weeks before planting outside. Many herbs can be grown in containers if space is limited.
6. Fruit Trees
If you're feeling ambitious, you can consider planting fruit trees in your yard. Apples, pears, cherries, and plums are all fruit trees that can be grown in the upper Midwest. However, fruit trees require more planning and effort than other plants on this list. You'll need to choose the right location, prepare the soil correctly, and ensure they get enough water and sunlight.
If you're interested in planting fruit trees, do your research or consult with local gardening experts to ensure you make the right decisions for your specific area.
: Start Planting!
May is an excellent time to start planting in the upper Midwest. Whether you're looking to grow vegetables, flowers, herbs, or fruit trees, there are plenty of options to choose from. Start by choosing plants that will thrive in your specific location and soil type. With a little planning and effort, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden in no time.
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