What's in Season?

Shirk’s Greenhouse offers dozens of plants of all different types — flowers, greenery, ferns, cacti, you name it (Photo/Dominic Asel).
Shirk’s Greenhouse offers dozens of plants of all different types — flowers, greenery, ferns, cacti, you name it (Photo/Dominic Asel).

If your green thumb is tingling, it’s because warm, sunny weather is approaching. May and June are prime months to start the garden of your dreams. HER spoke to gardening expert Wayne Shirk, owner of Shirk’s Greenhouse just outside of Jefferson City, to find out what plants are in season in May and June.

Geraniums: As one of the classics, geraniums continue to be popular because of their beautiful color and floral scent. 

Impatiens: Impatiens thrive most in shaded areas where they will only get sun exposure for a few hours in the day. Consider planting lavender or rosemary around and in between impatiens because they are a deer’s favorite snack.

Marigolds: These bright, gold-colored flowers will continue to bloom all summer long if taken care of properly. 

Zinnias: Zinnias are one of the easiest flowers to grow. They are fast bloomers and will continue to pop up until the early fall. 

Petunias: Petunias are another historically popular summer flower. They grow fast and aplenty.

Dahlias: As a relative of the sunflower, zinnia, chrysanthemum and daisy, dahlias are known for being bushy and vibrant in color. 

Tomatoes: Whether you’re cooking fried green tomatoes or just want ripe red tomatoes for salads or burgers this summer, there’s nothing like a tomato fresh off the vine. 

Peppers: Actually, many vegetables are likely to grow in the early summer months. Most peppers take two to three months to grow before they are ready to pick. 

No longer in season: Strawberries, broccoli, cauliflower, lettuce, cabbage, asparagus, pansies and other cold crops won’t easily grow in the early summer months. “Pretty much by May or June, you don’t want to plant any of that,” Shirk said. “You can plant strawberries, but they’d be for next year.”