Late May might seem a bit late to start planting, but it’s actually prime time for many annuals. It can be frustrating when you want quick results and vibrant blooms all summer long. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with the best annuals to plant right now.
Key Takeaways
- 🌼 Marigolds: Plant in full sun, water when the top inch is dry.
- 🌸 Zinnias: Direct sow in well-draining soil, germinate in 7-10 days.
- 🌺 Petunias: Thrive in pots, deadhead to encourage blooms.
- 🌿 Basil: Plant in USDA zones 3-9, harvest leaves regularly.
- 🌻 Sunflowers: Space 6 inches apart, full sun required.
- 🌷 Impatiens: Perfect for shade, water when the top inch is dry.
- 🌹 Cosmos: Tolerate poor soil, deadhead to continue blooming.
- 🌺 Nasturtiums: Edible flowers, soak seeds overnight before planting.
- 🌼 Morning Glories: Plant near supports, germinate in 5-7 days.
1. Marigolds: Bright and Hardy
Marigolds are a garden favorite for good reason. These tough plants thrive in full sun and are perfect for late May planting. They bloom quickly and can handle a variety of conditions.
When planting, space them about 6 to 12 inches apart. These beauties prefer well-drained soil, so ensure your garden bed or pot has good drainage. Water them when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering is a common mistake, leading to root rot.
🔴 Quick tip: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.
2. Zinnias: Fast-Growing Favorites
Zinnias are another bunch of colorful plants you can grow in your shaded porch all year round as they’re annual plants
Zinnias are your go-to if you want fast color. Direct sow these seeds in well-draining soil. You’ll see germination in just 7-10 days.
These annuals need full sun and should be spaced 8 to 12 inches apart. Zinnias are forgiving but avoid overhead watering to prevent powdery mildew. Instead, water at the base, keeping foliage dry.
🔴 Quick tip: Pinch back the first blooms to encourage bushier growth.
3. Petunias: Colorful and Versatile
Petunias are a must for container gardens. These colorful plants thrive in full sun to partial shade and can handle a slight chill in USDA zones 3-9.
Deadheading is crucial for petunias. Remove spent blooms to keep them looking their best and to encourage more flowers. They prefer well-drained soil and should be watered when the top 2 inches are dry.
4. Basil: Aromatic and Delicious
Basil isn’t just for the kitchen. This aromatic herb is great for late May planting in USDA zones 3-9. Plant it in full sun and ensure the soil stays moist but not soggy.
Harvest basil leaves regularly to encourage new growth. If you’re planting in pots, choose a container at least 12 inches deep. Pinch back the tips of the plants to prevent them from flowering too soon.
5. Sunflowers: Tall and Cheerful
Sunflowers are a classic choice that never disappoints. Plant them in full sun and give them plenty of room—space seeds about 6 inches apart.
These giants love the heat but need regular watering, especially when young. Mulching around the base can help retain moisture and prevent weeds.
🔴 Quick tip: Stake taller varieties to prevent them from toppling over in strong winds.
6. Impatiens: Perfect for Shade
Pink Impatiens, with its beautiful pink blooms, is easy to grow and maintain as a hanging plant
If you have a shady spot, impatiens are your best bet. These annuals thrive in partial to full shade and will give you a burst of color all summer long.
Space them about 8 to 12 inches apart. Water when the top inch of soil is dry, and avoid letting them wilt. Impatiens don’t like drought conditions.
7. Cosmos: Wild and Wonderful
Cosmos, when grown in volumes, is capable of attracting bees and other pollinators to it
Cosmos are perfect if you’re looking for something less fussy. They tolerate poor soil and will bloom from late spring to fall.
Plant cosmos in full sun and space them about 12 to 18 inches apart. Deadhead regularly to keep them blooming. Water them sparingly; too much water can lead to lanky growth.
8. Nasturtiums: Edible Beauties
Nasturium Care
Nasturtiums bring a splash of color and a peppery flavor to your garden. These annuals are perfect for late May planting.
Soak seeds overnight before planting to speed up germination. Plant them in full sun to partial shade, and space them about 10 inches apart. Nasturtiums prefer poor to average soil and don’t need much fertilizer.
9. Morning Glories: Romantic Climbers
Morning Glory, with its beautiful blue, heartshaped flowers, is a great plant to cover your fence lines
Morning glories are ideal for adding vertical interest. Plant them near a trellis or fence for support. These climbers thrive in full sun.
Soak seeds overnight for better germination, which typically occurs in 5-7 days. Water regularly but don’t let the soil get soggy. Once established, they’re fairly drought-tolerant.
Daniel has been a plant enthusiast for over 20 years. He owns hundreds of houseplants and prepares for the chili growing seasons yearly with great anticipation. His favorite plants are plant species in the Araceae family, such as Monstera, Philodendron, and Anthurium. He also loves gardening and is growing hot peppers, tomatoes, and many more vegetables.