May is the perfect time to refresh your container gardens with bold, vibrant flowers. The right blooms can transform your outdoor space into a stunning display of color and fragrance that lasts all summer long. Here are the five flowers you must plant this May for exuberant, non-stop summer color.
In this article
Chianti Sunflowers
Two Chianti sunflowers growing in my garden. Keeping the seeds from the garnet one as the basis for a breeding project.
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Chianti sunflowers are a unique twist on the traditional sunflower. With their deep burgundy-red petals and dark centers, these sunflowers add drama and elegance to any container garden.
Why Chianti Sunflowers?
- They thrive in pots, reaching a manageable height of 3–4 feet.
- Perfect for full sun, these flowers bloom continuously throughout summer.
- Their rich color pairs beautifully with other golden or pastel blooms for a striking contrast.
Tip: Use a deep container with good drainage and fill it with nutrient-rich soil. Water regularly to keep these sunflowers thriving.
Sweet Alyssum
If you’re looking for a flower that spills gracefully over the edges of your pots, sweet alyssum is a top pick. These tiny, fragrant blooms create a soft, cloud-like effect in white, purple, or pink.
Why Sweet Alyssum?
- They’re incredibly low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established.
- Sweet alyssum attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it a great choice for eco-conscious gardeners.
- Ideal for sunny or partially shaded spots, they bloom all summer long.
Tip: Combine sweet alyssum with taller plants to create a layered, textured container arrangement.
Thunbergia (Black-Eyed Susan Vine)
Thunbergia, also known as the black-eyed Susan vine, is a climbing or trailing flower that’s perfect for adding vertical interest to your container garden. Its cheerful, bright yellow or orange blooms bring a pop of color to any patio or balcony.
Why Thunbergia?
- This fast-growing vine thrives in pots with a trellis or hanging baskets.
- It’s heat-tolerant and blooms continuously in full sun.
- The classic black-centered flowers are a conversation starter in any garden.
Tip: Use a lightweight trellis in your container to encourage upward growth, or let the vines cascade naturally for a more relaxed look.
Cypress Vine
My cypress vine is blooming!
byu/Expensive-Stage7199 inhouseplants
For a touch of whimsy in your containers, cypress vine is an excellent choice. This fast-growing annual features delicate, fern-like foliage and small, star-shaped flowers in red, pink, or white.
Why Cypress Vine?
- It’s perfect for adding vertical interest or filling in gaps in your container displays.
- Cypress vine attracts hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a pollinator favorite.
- It’s easy to grow from seed and thrives in sunny spots.
Tip: Train this vine to climb a trellis, obelisk, or even a porch railing for a charming, cottage-garden vibe.
Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia)
First time growing a Mexican sunflower and won’t be the last I think.
byu/kookaburra_kool ingardening
Mexican sunflower is a showstopper in containers, with its vibrant orange blooms and tall, branching stems. These flowers are bold and beautiful, creating a striking focal point for your patio or garden.
Why Mexican Sunflower?
- They’re heat- and drought-tolerant, making them ideal for summer containers.
- Mexican sunflowers are a magnet for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds.
- Their large, daisy-like blooms add a tropical touch to any arrangement.
Tip: Use a large container to accommodate their height and pair them with smaller companion plants for balance.
What Flowering Herbs Could I Grow in Pots?
Flowering herbs are a great way to combine beauty and functionality in your container garden. Not only do they look lovely, but they’re also edible and fragrant. Consider these options:
- Lavender: Its purple blooms are stunning, and the scent is calming. Perfect for full sun.
- Thyme: Produces tiny pink or purple flowers and thrives in small pots.
- Chives: Their purple pom-pom flowers are both decorative and edible.
- Basil: While known for its culinary uses, basil also produces delicate white or purple flowers.
- Lemon Balm: With tiny white flowers and a citrusy aroma, it’s a delightful addition to any container.
Tip: Regularly harvest flowering herbs to encourage new growth and prevent them from becoming woody.
Frequently asked questions
Can I combine these flowers in one container?
Yes! Many of these flowers work well together, especially if they share similar sun and water requirements. For example, pair Chianti sunflowers with trailing sweet alyssum for a bold yet soft combination.
By planting these five stunning flowers in pots this May, you’ll create a container garden bursting with color, texture, and life. Whether you’re working with a small balcony or a spacious patio, these blooms are guaranteed to make your summer garden unforgettable. Let the planting begin!
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