Gardens That Will Look Most Beautiful In May

May is a magical month for gardens, with places like Kerdalo, Kestellic, and Leonardslee showcasing their most vibrant displays. Kerdalo's blend of Italian and Chinese design, Kestellic's jungle-like atmosphere, and Leonardslee's stunning rhododendrons are just the beginning. Each garden offers unique elements that captivate the senses, making this the perfect time for planting and maintenance. But what truly sets these gardens apart? There's a fascinating story behind each one, and it's worth exploring how their distinct features combine to create such breathtaking beauty.

Kerdalo Gardens

Kerdalo Gardens, nestled in Côtes-d'Armor, Brittany, spans an impressive 35 acres and was brought to life by Prince Peter Wolkonsky in 1965 with a unique blend of Italian and Chinese design influences.

When you take a garden tour here, you'll discover lush areas that feel like a tropical jungle, filled with diverse plant life and unique design elements.

After Wolkonsky's death, the gardens were neglected but saw a beautiful revival in 1997 thanks to Isabelle Vaughan.

Now, under the ownership of fashion designer Christian Louboutin since 2021, Kerdalo Gardens continues to flourish.

Head gardener Tangi Rabin brings fresh expertise, ensuring every visit is a delight.

Don't miss out on this enchanting garden tour!

Kestellic Gardens

After exploring the enchanting Kerdalo Gardens, let's head to another botanical gem in Brittany: Kestellic Gardens.

Nestled on the Jaudy estuary in Plouguiel, this 20-acre garden thrives within a steep-sided valley, creating a lush, vibrant environment.

You'll be captivated by the jungle-like atmosphere, thanks to the impressive array of plantings like Japanese maples, gunneras, and rhododendrons.

Here's what you can expect to see:

Tallest Dicksonia ferns in France, adding a prehistoric vibe.
Succulents and alpines strategically placed on south-facing slopes.
Unique microclimate fostering diverse and flourishing plant life.

In May, the garden's beauty peaks as spring blooms flourish, providing a picturesque and serene escape for all nature lovers.

Leonardslee Gardens

Situated in Lower Beeding, Horsham, West Sussex, Leonardslee Gardens is a horticultural paradise that spans an impressive 240 acres.

This incredible garden is looking absolutely stunning in May, thanks to its vibrant collections of rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias.

Originally established by Sir Edmund Loder in the late 19th century, the garden holds significant historical importance in the horticultural world.

Since Penny Streeter purchased it in 2017, extensive restoration has made it even more beautiful and accessible.

As you stroll through the wooded valleys and around the serene lakes, you'll encounter a diverse range of plant life, all in full bloom during the spring months.

It's a must-visit for anyone who loves nature and breathtaking gardens.

Loder Plants

Loder Plants embodies a rich legacy of horticultural excellence that's been nurtured through generations.

Located in Lower Beeding, Horsham, West Sussex, it's been operated by Sir Edmund Loder's great, great grandson since 1989.

This nursery is a paradise for enthusiasts of camellias, rhododendrons, and hydrangeas, which thrive in acidic soil.

Over 3,700 seed choices: Including perennials and ornamental grasses from Jelitto Perennial Seeds.
Knowledgeable staff: Passionate about plants and enthusiastic to share their expertise.
In-person visits: Recommended for discussions on plant care and selection, though online ordering is also available.

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, Loder Plants offers the guidance and resources you need to make your garden flourish.

Wildside by Keith Wiley

Wildside by Keith Wiley in Devon showcases the essence of new naturalism, a gardening philosophy that embraces nature's beauty through sustainable practices.

When I visit, I'm trying to grasp how Wiley achieves such harmony. The garden features a diverse range of versatile plants with attractive flower heads, perfect for both aesthetics and ecological health.

Keith Wiley, a published author, inspires enthusiasts with his books on innovative gardening techniques.

Wildside isn't just a visual treat; it's a hub for lectures and workshops where Wiley shares his expertise on biodiversity's importance.

The garden's design emphasizes simplicity, with easy-to-grow staples that flourish in May, making it a must-see for anyone passionate about naturalistic gardening.

Gardening Tasks for May

May is the perfect time to get those tender annuals, perennials, and vegetables into the ground now that the last frost is behind us.

Don't forget to deadhead your spent flowers to encourage new blooms and keep your garden looking its best.

With these simple tasks, our gardens will thrive and bring joy throughout the season.

Planting Tender Annuals

Planting tender annuals in May brings a sense of anticipation and excitement to any garden.

It's vital to plant them after the last frost for healthy growth. To get started, make certain you regularly monitor weather conditions. Dry spells might need extra watering to keep the new plants hydrated and thriving.

Hand-pulling weeds: This maintains garden health and prevents competition for nutrients and water among tender annuals.
Fertilizing: Use your preferred fertilizer to provide essential nutrients that boost growth and flowering potential.
Planting tender annuals: Choose a sunny spot, plant them carefully, and water them well.

Encouraging New Blooms

As we move forward from planting tender annuals, let's focus on encouraging new blooms to keep the garden vibrant and flourishing throughout May.

Each day, make it a habit to deadhead spent flowers. This simple task encourages new blooms and extends the flowering period.

Fertilize your roses, annuals, and houseplants with the right nutrients to promote healthy growth and more blossoms.

Hand-pull weeds to reduce competition for nutrients and keep your garden looking pristine.

Don't forget that adequate watering, especially during dry spells, is essential for both newly planted and established plants.

By focusing on these daily tasks, we can guarantee our gardens remain lively and beautiful all month long.

Happy gardening!

The Front Porch Gardens

Let's talk about your Front Porch Gardens and how to make them pop this May!

I love starting with early spring planting in containers because they add such vibrant color and make the entrance inviting.

The bugleweed creates a lush carpet around the buckeye tree, which not only looks amazing but also attracts hummingbirds with its stunning trumpet-like pink flowers.

Early Spring Planting

In early spring, the Front Porch Gardens burst to life with vibrant container displays that instantly enhance the visual appeal of the entrance.

Early spring planting is key to creating a welcoming atmosphere. I strategically place containers to maximize color and texture, guaranteeing continuous blooms.

Colorful perennials and annuals: Mixing these provides height variation and seasonal color.
Containers by the entrance: These add instant charm and set a welcoming tone.
Thoughtful plant selection: Guarantees visual interest throughout the spring.

Vibrant Bugleweed Carpet

A lush carpet of vibrant bugleweed transforms the Front Porch Gardens into a visual delight, wrapping around the majestic buckeye tree with its trumpet-like pink flowers.

Bugleweed thrives in spring, producing beautiful blue flowers that attract pollinators, enhancing the garden's biodiversity. This combination of bugleweed and the buckeye tree creates a striking contrast. It's going to catch your eye and attract hummingbirds during the blooming season.

Early spring planting of containers adds even more layers of color and texture to the entrance. Plus, bugleweed's strategic placement isn't just for looks; it helps suppress weeds, maintaining a neat and vibrant garden area.

You'll love how this ground cover keeps everything looking fresh and inviting.

Hummingbird Attraction Flowers

With the buckeye tree's trumpet-like pink flowers drawing hummingbirds, the Front Porch Gardens become a lively spectacle in May.

Planting a mix of perennials and annuals guarantees a vibrant display, perfect for attracting these fascinating pollinators.

I've found that the lush foliage of bugleweed creates a colorful carpet around the buckeye tree, further enticing hummingbirds with its visual appeal.

Incorporating plants known for their nectar-rich flowers can greatly enhance hummingbird visitation.

Buckeye tree: Trumpet-like pink flowers that are hummingbird magnets.
Bugleweed: Creates a vibrant, lush carpet around the buckeye tree.
Regular deadheading: Encourages continuous blooming, keeping the garden attractive throughout May.

The Formal Garden

Ever wondered what makes a Formal Garden stand out? Imagine stepping off your front porch into a meticulously maintained space where every element has its place.

Statues and a charming gazebo add elegance, offering a serene seating area to admire the garden's intricate layout. Deer-resistant plants guarantee the garden thrives, despite local wildlife.

Shaded spots present unique challenges, but experimenting with plants like Lonicera can turn these areas into vibrant spaces. The balance of color and structure is key, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for May blooms.

Each carefully selected plant and thoughtfully placed feature contributes to the garden's overall charm. It's more than just a garden—it's a tranquil escape right outside your front door.

The Backyard Garden

In my backyard garden, you'll find an exciting mix of specimen plants like weeping larch and Japanese maples that keep things visually interesting all year round.

The seasonal blooms, from colorful Lenten roses to vibrant azaleas, add a burst of color and attract friendly pollinators, making the space lively and inviting.

Plus, the garden's design, with its green fences and artistic touches, creates a welcoming environment that's perfect for a relaxing stroll.

Diverse Specimen Plants

One can't help but be captivated by the diverse specimen plants that spotlight the Backyard Garden's unique charm. Each plant adds its own flair, creating a tapestry of colors and shapes.

The weeping larch and Japanese maples stand out with their striking forms and foliage.

Weeping Larch: This tree's cascading branches create a soft, flowing look that catches the eye.
Japanese Maples: These trees offer vibrant leaf colors that change with the seasons, adding a dynamic element.
Koi-shaped Tree Sculpture: This whimsical touch enhances the garden's visual appeal, blending art with nature.

These diverse specimen plants make the garden a haven for wildlife and a delight for visitors, promoting both beauty and biodiversity.

Seasonal Beauty Highlights

While the diverse specimen plants set the stage for the Backyard Garden's charm, it's May's seasonal beauty that truly captures the essence of this serene space.

The vivid blooms of Lenten roses and azaleas bring a burst of color, enhancing the garden's vibrant palette. Sculpted benches and the koi-shaped tree sculpture create inviting spots to relax and admire the view.

The green fences add vertical interest, seamlessly blending with the flowering plants. Weeping larch and Japanese maples add visual intrigue, while the balance of foliage colors enriches the overall experience.

These seasonal beauty highlights make May the perfect time to enjoy the harmonious textures and colors of the Backyard Garden.

The Zen Garden

The Zen Garden's tranquil beauty captivates with its initial spring plantings, promising even more lush enhancements in May.

I've never seen a garden transform so beautifully with the addition of vibrant bearded irises and the rich, dark foliage of sambuca nigra. These elements really stand out, especially around the serene pond area.

Come May, the garden's aesthetic will be even more stunning with additional plantings designed to enhance its natural beauty.

Bearded irises: Their vibrant colors create a lively atmosphere.
Sambuca nigra: The dark foliage adds a striking contrast to the greenery.
Serene pond area: A perfect spot for reflection and tranquility.

Future plans even include digging and dividing plants to keep everything balanced and visually appealing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Plants Are Best in May?

In May, I recommend planting perennial blooms like Foxglove and rhododendrons. These plants offer vibrant colors and can reseed for future seasons. Adding tender annuals and tropical plants will enhance your garden's visual appeal with striking contrasts.

Is May a Good Time to Start a Garden?

Yes, May's ideal for starting a garden! With proper spring preparation, like ensuring frost risks are over and regular watering, you can plant tender annuals, perennials, and veggies, setting the stage for a thriving garden.

Is May Too Late to Plant a Garden?

May's not too late to plant a garden. In fact, it's perfect for planting timing. Tender annuals, perennials, and veggies thrive after the last frost. Just guarantee adequate watering and weed control for a healthy start.

How Do You Garden in May?

In May, I focus on garden maintenance by planting tender annuals, perennials, and vegetables after the last frost. I regularly deadhead, fertilize, weed, and water 2-3 times a week to guarantee my garden thrives.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! May is the perfect time to visit or work on gardens like Kerdalo, Kestellic, and Leonardslee. With their unique designs and stunning blooms, they're sure to inspire you. Whether you're planting colorful annuals or enjoying the lush landscapes, these gardens offer a beautiful escape. So grab your gardening gloves, get outside, and create your own slice of paradise—nature's beauty is waiting just for you!