The month of May ushers the summer season in India. As the temperatures soar above 30 degrees and the colors of spring begin to fade, the gardener in us tries to find a getaway in vibrant flowering plants such as roses, marigolds, hibiscus, bougainvillea, sunflower, champa, vinca, and zinnia.

1. Rose

Rose commonly known as Gulab is one of the favorite flowering plants across India because of its vibrant colors and captivating fragrances. Rose is used in many home remedies because of its antiviral and antioxidant properties. Rose petals are used to make rose tea which is known to cure sore throat and upset stomach. Because of its soothing properties, it is used to make rose water often used as a toner, and refreshing sharbat.

 This shrub has over 300 species and can be grown in any season through its cuttings. But the early summer months of April and May are best for planting these evergreen beauties. It needs well-fertilized soil, 6-8 hours of sunlight, and frequent watering. 

2. Marigold

Marigold commonly known as genda is one of the most spotted plants in India because of their religious and medicinal value. It is also used for decoration and making garlands on auspicious occasions such as weddings and religious festivals. It is one of the easiest plants to grow and blooms throughout the year, especially in summer.

It can be grown very easily from seeds in well-draining soil. It requires partial sunlight and regular watering. It is also planted for its strong fragrance which acts as an insect repellant and repels many insects such as spider mites, thrips, maggot flies, and root flies. It is beneficial to plant marigolds in the kitchen garden along with vegetable plants such as tomatoes as it attracts bees and butterflies and helps in pollination.

3. Hibiscus

Commonly known as the Chinese rose or shoe flower, hibiscus is an evergreen shrub that has vibrant-colored flowers and wide large petals. It is grown widely in India for its medicinal and religious values. Even a single hibiscus plant in your garden can uplift its looks aesthetically.

Hibiscus is usually grown through cuttings. A potting mix with a mixture of garden soil, sand, and compost is best suited for its growth. Watering once every two days or when the top two inches of the soil feel dry is best for this plant. Well-balanced organic fertilizer at least once every month is sufficient for its growth.

4. Sunflower

Sunflower is an ideal summer flowering plant that thrives well in full sunlight. Its big yellow flowers bloom in peak summer months and make the garden look lively. It can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. It grows well in shaded places but requires full sun for blooming. A soil rich in compost is good for its growth. It requires regular watering but water logging should be avoided.

 5. Zinnia

Zinnia is another summer flowering plant widely grown in India. It comes in several vibrant colors such as yellow, orange, purple, red, and pink.

It is grown at the beginning of the summer months and thrives in hot weather. It is a fast-growing plant that grows easily by seeds in home gardens and requires minimal care. It requires full sunlight and ample watering but water logging should be avoided. Fertilize occasionally with a well-balanced fertilizer for its robust blooming.

Here are some other blogs which make your Green Space Greener!

1. Gardening Calendar Blogs
2. Sustainable Gifting Ideas
3. Gardener Stories
4. Garden Care Blogs
5.  Miniature Garden Decor
6. Gardening Workshops

Have a look at some amazing Videos of Gardening that might help you!

1. Tips on planting homegrown plants and creating art with them as a beginner.
2. How to preserve, plant, and grow flower seeds in monsoon, winter, and other seasons.
3. Growing different vegetables, winter vegetables especially, and tips and tricks to preserve.
4. Preserving fruits such as strawberries, Papaya, watermelon, muskmelon, etc.
5. Know all about microgreens using examples such as microgreen spinach, microgreen sunflower, microgreen mustard, microgreen flax, etc.
6. Using gardening tools such as pots, trays, growing bags, moss sticks, watering cans, etc.

Here are some Workshops that might help you if you are new to Gardening!

1. Convert your green space into a small Miniature Garden.
2. Know more about your Garden Soil.
3. Know how to start your own small Garden.

Happy Gardening!