My Top Picks for the Best Flowers to Plant in May in East Central Minnesota

As May arrives and frost yields to warmer temperatures, it's the ideal time to revitalize your landscape with vibrant flowers. In East Central Minnesota, picking the right flowers is crucial due to the unpredictable climate. After years of hands-on gardening experience, I have compiled my top flower choices that will thrive in this delightful season, adding both color and charm to your outdoor space.

1. Minnesota Native: Prairie Smoke

One of my favorite flowers to plant in early May is the enchanting Prairie Smoke (Geum triflorum). This perennial thrives in Minnesota and requires minimal care.

Prairie Smoke showcases nodding pinkish-purple blooms that appear before its leaves, creating a stunning visual effect that captures attention. Its unique seed heads, resembling smoky tufts, are great conversation starters. When planted in clusters, they create a striking display, a feature that can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal for those looking to sell their home.

For a boost in your garden's visual impact, consider planting at least five to seven plants together. The result will be a captivating patch that draws the eye.

2. Cheerful Pansies

Pansies offer a burst of color that is hard to resist in spring. Their bright hues and various patterns instantly enliven gardens. Planting them in May helps them withstand cooler temperatures while flourishing in the warmer days ahead.

Pansies can fill flower beds, borders, or containers, boasting a long blooming period that lasts from May through frost. According to gardening research, their bright flowers can increase property value by as much as 10 percent, making them an excellent choice for those eager to create a welcoming atmosphere.

When selecting pansies, look for a mix of colors. A blend of yellow, purple, and white will create a vibrant, eye-catching arrangement.

3. Hardy Coneflower

The Hardy Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) ranks high on my list for its resilience. Native to Minnesota, this perennial flourishes in various soil types with little upkeep, perfect for gardeners at any experience level.

The coneflower's captivating, daisy-like blooms in shades of pink and purple are not just beautiful; they also attract beneficial pollinators like butterflies and bees. Planting coneflowers in your garden can enhance biodiversity by 50 percent, creating a thriving ecosystem while adding natural beauty.

Consider grouping them in threes or fives to create a vibrant focal point that attracts visitors and pollinators alike.

4. Bright Sunflowers

Sunflowers are the epitome of summer joy, and May is the perfect month to start their seeds for a stunning mid-summer show. Their bright yellow petals can transform dull garden spaces into lively areas, making them a fantastic choice for property owners looking to impress potential buyers.

With a range of varieties from petite dwarf types to massive giants that can grow over 10 feet tall, you can choose sunflowers that fit any garden size. Extensive studies show that properties adorned with sunflowers can increase foot traffic by up to 30%, as buyers are often drawn in by their cheerful appearance.

To maximize their visual impact, plant sunflowers in rows to create a bright backdrop against your garden.

5. Vibrant Coleus

If you're looking to add colorful foliage alongside flowers, coleus is a fantastic option. Although they are primarily grown for their striking leaves rather than blooms, their vibrant colors can complement other garden plants beautifully.

Coleus thrives in both sun and partial shade, making it versatile for any landscape. They come in various hues, from deep burgundy to shamrock green, providing stunning contrasts against brightly colored flowers. A well-planned arrangement can create a visually diverse garden that captivates all who see it.

When designing your planting scheme, consider using coleus as a border around your flowering plants for a layered look.

6. Lovely Lilies

Asiatic lilies are a must for any summer garden, and planting their bulbs in May ensures beautiful blooms later. They are hardy flowers that thrive in well-drained soil, making them easy to manage.

Lilies come in many colors—from soft pastels to bold shades—creating a rich tapestry of beauty in your garden. Their fragrant blooms not only please the eyes but also appeal to potential buyers, as homes with fragrant gardens often sell for 20% more.

To make a striking impact, plant at least five lilies in close proximity for a clustered bloom effect.

Close-up view of colorful cone flower in a well-tended garden

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right flowers to plant in May in East Central Minnesota can significantly enhance your landscape's overall appeal. Each of my top picks not only adds beauty but provides long-lasting interest throughout the seasons.

Whether you aim to boost your property's market value or create a personal garden retreat, these flowers promise to delight. So gather your gardening tools, prepare your soil, and get ready to plant some stunning blooms!

Happy gardening!