May in Pennsylvania: A Floral Fiesta for Your Senses (and Your Instagram)
Ah, May in Pennsylvania. The days get longer, the skies get bluer, and the state explodes in a riot of color. But with so many blooms vying for attention, it can be hard to know where to look! Fear not, fellow flower fanatic, for this guide will be your compass through Pennsylvania's floral extravaganza.
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| What Flowers Bloom In May In Pennsylvania |
The Main Event: Stars of the Show
May is prime time for some true Pennsylvania heavyweights. We're talking about:
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- Lilacs: Their intoxicating fragrance will have you swooning (and maybe a little bit sneezy for some). Fun fact: Did you know the color of a lilac flower can range from deep purple to white?
- Peonies: These fluffy giants come in a dazzling array of colors and pack a serious punch in the vase department. Their heady scent is another bonus!
- Irises: Elegant and sophisticated, irises come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, from the classic Dutch iris to the more delicate Japanese iris.
Pro tip: Want to impress your friends with your botanical knowledge? Casually drop the fact that irises are named after the Greek goddess of the rainbow, Iris, because of their wide variety of colors.
QuickTip: Re-reading helps retention.
Don't Sleep On These Supporting Acts
May isn't just about the big names. Here are some other delightful blooms to keep an eye out for:
QuickTip: Highlight useful points as you read.
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- Azaleas and Rhododendrons: These bushy beauties come in a kaleidoscope of colors and are a surefire way to add a splash of cheer to any landscape.
- Columbine: These delicate, cup-shaped flowers with long spurs are a favorite among hummingbirds. Look for them in wilder areas.
- Virginia Sweetspire: This native shrub might not be a household name, but its sweetly scented white flowers are a real treat in late May.
Bonus points: If you can identify a Virginia Sweetspire, you're officially a Pennsylvania plant pro.
QuickTip: Don’t ignore the small print.
Beyond the Backyard: Where to Find Floral Fireworks
If your own backyard is lacking in the floral department, fret not! Pennsylvania has plenty of options for getting your flower fix:
- Public gardens: Longwood Gardens and the Morris Arboretum are just two of the many incredible public gardens in Pennsylvania that put on a spectacular show in May.
- Wildflower hikes: Lace up your boots and hit the trails! Many state parks and forests boast stunning wildflower displays in May.
Remember: Be a responsible flower admirer! Take photos, not flowers, and leave no trace on your wildflower adventures.
How to... (FAQ)
- How to identify a specific flower? There are many great wildflower identification apps available, or you can consult a field guide.
- How to attract butterflies to my garden? Plant flowers with flat, open blooms in shades of yellow, orange, purple, and pink. Butterflies love easy access to nectar!
- How to care for cut flowers? Always use sharp shears to cut your flowers, and place them in a clean vase with cool water. Add a few drops of flower food for extra pizzazz.
- How to grow my own peonies? Peonies prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Plant them in the fall and be patient - they may take a few years to establish themselves but are worth the wait!
- How to avoid poison ivy while enjoying wildflowers? Learn to identify poison ivy's three leaves and avoid any plants that match that description. When in doubt, leave it out!
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