What to Plant Now for a Thriving Summer Garden (Expert Tips from Woods)

We have a relatively short growing season, but it's not too late to plant flower pots, gardens, veggies, fruits, trees, and shrubs.

In fact, the danger of frost doesn't wane until late May, so now's a great time to get started!

Woods Farmers Seed & Nursery has a greenhouse packed with hanging baskets, singles and 4 packs, and large containers, with great options for beginners and green thumbs alike. Their expert staff can troubleshoot issues, answer questions, and make suggestions for pairing plants in any space.

Here are a few of our favorite ideas:

Annual pots and planters

Depending on your container shape, you'll probably want a tall attention-getter, bright colors, and some greenery to balance things out.

• For a pot that gets intense sun: Purple fountain grass, petunias, zinnias, and sweet potato vine
• For a pollinator-friendly pot: Osteospermum, salvia, and mezoo.
• For a part-sun pot: Sun patients, verbena, and moss roses.   
• For a shaded pot: Begonias, impatiens, and creeping Jenny.

Annual gardens or borders

Color makes everything brighter, and in gardens, it's often what makes summer seem like summer. Annuals need to be replanted each year, but they produce consistent color with minimal care. Popular options include:

• Petunias
• Geraniums
• Zinnias
• Begonias
• Impatiens
• Marigolds

Woods staff can always make suggestions for specific planting areas, but typically, you'd want to keep the level of sunlight and plant height in mind when planning and shopping for annuals.

Vegetables

Veggies that are perfect for beginners to plant in late May or early June are cherry tomatoes, cucumber, zucchini, and kale or lettuce.  We recommend starting with one or two of each plant, depending on how much time and space you have.

Radishes, carrots, and lettuce grow quickly, are ready for harvest within a month, and can be planted twice within the season. Beans and peas are easy to sow directly into your container or plot in early June.

When you stop by Woods, don't forget they have practically everything you need, from gardening and landscaping products, lawn care supplies, garden decor, and more. Locally owned and operated for almost 70 years, they know the Central Minnesota growing environment and can help develop your vision into action steps and product recommendations.

Get started today at Woods Farmer Seed & Nursery, 2801 First Street S, Waite Park, by calling (320) 252-5234, or by visiting woodsfarmerseed.com.