11 Best Edible Flowers to Grow in Late Spring

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As the sun begins to linger a bit longer and the soil warms up, late spring emerges as an opportune time for garden enthusiasts to sprinkle their plots with a variety of edible flowers. These blossoms are not just a feast for the eyes but also add a burst of flavor and color to salads, desserts, and beverages. Cultivating edible flowers is a delightful way to bridge the gap between gardening and culinary arts, offering both aesthetic beauty and functional uses in the kitchen.

Below, we explore 11 of the best edible flowers that you can start growing in late spring, guaranteeing a garden that’s as tasty as it is beautiful.

11 Best Edible Flowers to Grow in Late Spring

1. Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus)

Nasturtiums are the quintessential edible flower, boasting vibrant hues of orange, yellow, and red. They have a peppery flavor reminiscent of watercress, making them perfect for adding a kick to salads. These hardy plants thrive in full to partial sun and can be sown directly into the garden as soon as the threat of frost has passed.

2. Pansies (Viola x wittrockiana)

With their cheerful faces, pansies are a springtime favorite. Their mild, slightly grassy flavor makes them an excellent garnish for desserts or a colorful addition to salads. Pansies prefer cooler temperatures, so plant them in early to late spring for the best results. They require partial to full sun and well-drained soil.

3. Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Also known as “pot marigold,” calendula petals have a tangy, slightly bitter taste and a vibrant golden color. They are often used to add color to dishes as a natural dye. Calendula can be directly sown into the garden in early spring and prefers full sun and well-draining soil.

4. Borage (Borago officinalis)

Borage flowers, with their striking blue hue, offer a light cucumber taste that is perfect for refreshing summer drinks or garnishing salads. This plant is incredibly easy to grow from seed and prefers full sun to partial shade. Borage is known for its ability to attract beneficial bees to the garden.

5. Viola (Viola cornuta)

Violas, or Johnny-jump-ups, are not only charming but also have a sweet, slightly perfumed flavor. They are ideal for decorating cakes, incorporating into salads, or crystallizing with sugar for a fancy treat. Violas are versatile in light requirements, thriving in full sun to partial shade, and can be sown directly in the garden in late spring.

6. Chive Blossoms (Allium schoenoprasum)

The soft lavender flowers of the chive plant add a mild onion flavor to dishes. Separate the individual florets and sprinkle them over salads, baked potatoes, or egg dishes for a burst of color and taste. Chives are perennials that prefer full sun and well-draining soil and can be easily propagated by dividing established clumps in the spring.

7. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)

Lavender’s sweet, floral flavor with lemon and citrus notes makes it a fantastic addition to desserts, teas, and cocktails. This beloved herb requires full sun, good drainage, and well-aerated soil. Lavender can be a bit tricky to start from seed, so consider purchasing young plants from a nursery.

8. Squash Blossoms (Cucurbita spp.)

The large, orange flowers of squash plants are a delicacy in many cuisines, often stuffed and fried. They have a sweet, mild zucchini flavor and can also be used fresh in salads. Plant squash in a sunny spot after the last frost, and harvest the male blossoms sparingly to ensure fruit production.

9. Dianthus (Dianthus spp.)

Also known as “pinks,” dianthus flowers have a sweet, spicy flavor similar to cloves. The petals are beautiful as a garnish on desserts or mixed into salads. Dianthus prefers full sun and well-draining, alkaline soil. They can be sown from seed in late spring or planted as seedlings.

10. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)

Marigolds are not only beneficial for deterring pests in the vegetable garden but also have edible flowers. Their taste can range from spicy to bitter, tangy to citrusy, depending on the variety. Use the petals to add color to salads or as a garnish. Marigolds thrive in full sun and well-draining soil and can be easily grown from seed.

11. Bee Balm (Monarda didyma)

Bee balm, with its vibrant red flowers, offers a blend of flavors, including citrus, mint, and oregano. It’s fantastic in teas, salads, and as a garnish. Bee balm prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-draining soil. It’s also a favorite among pollinators, attracting bees and butterflies to your garden.

Comprehensive Plant Care Guide for Late Spring

As the frost of winter fades and the early blooms of spring begin to flourish, late spring presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges for gardeners. This is a period of rapid growth for many plants, as they capitalize on the longer days and warmer weather. This guide will delve into the essentials of plant care during this vibrant season, covering light, water, soil, fertilizer, common problems, and propagation.

Light

As the sun begins to assert itself more boldly in late spring, understanding the light requirements of your plants is crucial. Most flowering plants and vegetables will thrive in full sunlight, defined as direct sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. However, too much direct sunlight can be detrimental to shade-loving plants, which prefer dappled or partial sunlight to avoid leaf burn.

• Full Sun Plants: Position these plants in areas where they’ll receive unfiltered sunlight for most of the day. This is crucial for the development of fruits and flowers.
• Partial Shade Plants: These plants prefer a mix of sun and shade. Morning sun is often gentler, making it the best time for these plants to receive their daily dose of sunlight.
• Shade Plants: Ensure these plants are placed under the canopy of larger plants or in areas that receive indirect sunlight to protect them from the harsh afternoon sun.

Water

Late spring can be a period of erratic weather, with periods of heavy rain followed by dry spells. Watering needs can vary significantly based on your local climate, but there are some general guidelines to follow:

• Consistency is Key: Most plants benefit from a consistent watering schedule. Overwatering can be as harmful as underwatering, leading to root rot or fungal diseases.
• Morning Watering: Watering in the early morning is ideal because it allows moisture to reach the roots before the heat of the day can cause evaporation. It also helps prevent fungal diseases that can occur when foliage doesn’t have time to dry out.
• Check the Soil: Before watering, check the soil moisture a few inches down. If the soil feels dry, it’s time to water; if it’s moist, you can wait.

Soil

The vitality of your garden in late spring hinges significantly on the health of your soil. A well-draining, nutrient-rich soil provides the best environment for plant roots to thrive.

• Soil Testing: Late spring is an excellent time to test your soil’s pH and nutrient levels. This can guide your fertilization and amendment strategy.
• Amendments: If your soil is lacking in organic matter, incorporating compost can improve soil structure, water retention, and fertility. For sandy soils, compost and peat moss can enhance moisture retention. In clay soils, compost and gypsum can improve drainage and aeration.

Fertilizer

As plants kick into high gear, providing the right amount and type of fertilizer can make all the difference.

• Balanced Fertilizer: For most plants, a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 NPK) applied in late spring can provide the necessary nutrients for growth and development.
• Slow-Release Options: Consider using slow-release fertilizers to provide a steady supply of nutrients over several weeks or months, reducing the risk of over-fertilization.
• Specialty Fertilizers: Some plants, such as roses or tomatoes, benefit from fertilizers formulated specifically for their needs, often with higher concentrations of certain nutrients like phosphorus for flowering and fruiting.

Common Problems

Late spring can bring about several common garden problems:

• Pests: Aphids, slugs, and other garden pests emerge in force. Regular inspections and prompt removal or treatment of infested plants are crucial. Consider using natural predators or organic treatments to manage pests.
• Diseases: Fungal diseases can proliferate during cool, wet springs. Ensure good air circulation around plants and avoid overhead watering to keep foliage dry.
• Weeds: Vigilance is key. Mulching can suppress weed growth, retain soil moisture, and add organic matter to the soil as it decomposes.

Propagation

Late spring is an ideal time for plant propagation, whether by seed, cuttings, or division.

• Seeds: Many annuals and vegetables can be sown directly into the garden in late spring. Ensure the soil has warmed sufficiently for the best germination rates.
• Cuttings: Softwood cuttings from shrubs and perennials can be taken in late spring. Choose healthy, non-flowering stems, and use a rooting hormone to encourage root development.
• Division: Perennials that have become overcrowded can be lifted and divided. This not only propagates your plants but also rejuvenates them, encouraging more vigorous growth.

Maintenance and Care

• Staking and Support: As plants grow taller, staking or using plant supports can prevent damage from wind or heavy rain.
• Deadheading: Regularly removing spent flowers from plants can encourage more blooms and prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production.
• Mulching: Mulch conserves moisture, suppresses weeds, and keeps soil temperatures stable. Apply a 2-3 inch layer around plants, leaving some space around the base to prevent rot.

Conclusion

Late spring is a time of dynamic growth and vibrant life in the garden. By understanding the specific needs of your plants and providing the right care, you can ensure a healthy, flourishing garden that will continue to thrive into the summer months. Remember, attentive care, observation, and a bit of TLC during this critical period can set the stage for a season full of bounty and beauty.

In Summary

Incorporating edible flowers into your garden is a delightful way to add color, flavor, and texture to your culinary creations. From the peppery kick of nasturtiums to the sweet floral notes of lavender, there’s a wide variety of tastes and aromas to explore. When choosing flowers for your garden, always ensure they are safe for consumption and haven’t been treated with pesticides or other chemicals. With the 11 edible flowers listed above, you’re well on your way to creating a beautiful, bountiful, and tasty late spring garden that will be the envy of your neighborhood and a treat for your taste buds. Happy gardening!