Early May is one of the best times to plant perennials in Coastal Virginia. The soil has warmed up, nights are comfortable, and plants can establish quickly before the real summer heat and humidity arrive.
This time of year isn’t about planting everything, it’s about choosing reliable performers that are actively growing now and ready to carry your garden into summer.
Here are some of the best perennials to plant right now.
Early Season Standouts That Keep Going
These are looking great right now and won’t drop off as temperatures rise.
Columbine (Aquilegia)
Light, airy blooms with a natural, almost woodland feel. Columbine thrives in part sun and brings in pollinators early in the season.
Why plant now: It’s in its prime and establishes easily before summer stress sets in.
Dianthus
Compact, colorful, and often fragrant, dianthus is perfect for edging beds or brightening containers.
Why plant now: Actively blooming and transitions nicely into early summer with minimal effort.
Heuchera (Coral Bells)
Grown as much for its foliage as its flowers, heuchera brings rich color and texture to shaded and part-shade spaces, from deep burgundy to bright lime.
Why plant now: Cooler spring conditions help it establish before heat and humidity kick in.
Setting Up for Summer Color
These may just be getting started, but planting now gives you a stronger, longer show.
Salvia
A go-to for sunny spaces with upright spikes of color that pollinators love. Reliable, repeat blooming, and easy to care for.
Why plant now: Establishes quickly in warm soil and takes off as temperatures climb.
Nepeta (Catmint)
Soft, billowy growth with long-lasting blue-purple blooms. Tough, drought-tolerant, and low maintenance.
Why plant now: Gets established early and fills in fast before summer.
Coreopsis
Bright, cheerful color that thrives in heat and sun. One of the easiest perennials for consistent blooms.
Why plant now: Early planting means earlier blooms and a longer-lasting display.
Coastal Favorites That Thrive Here
These are well-suited to Coastal Virginia’s sandy soils, humidity, and changing conditions.
Bee Balm (Monarda)
Bold blooms that draw in hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. A standout in pollinator gardens with strong summer performance.
Why plant now: Needs time to root in before peak heat and humidity.
Agapanthus (Lily of the Nile)
Striking globe-shaped blooms on tall stems add structure and a coastal feel to the garden. Great for sunny beds and containers.
Why plant now: Establishes ahead of its summer bloom cycle and performs best with a head start.
Lavender
A coastal staple that loves well-drained soil and sunny conditions. Adds fragrance, texture, and pollinator appeal.
Why plant now: Benefits from early establishment before humid weather arrives.
A Few Quick Tips for Planting in Early May
- Plant before the heat ramps up to give roots time to establish
- Water deeply and consistently for the first few weeks
- Mulch lightly to help retain moisture
- Give plants room to breathe, airflow matters in humidity
The Takeaway
Right now is a prime window to plant perennials that will carry your garden through the season.
Focus on varieties that are:
- Actively growing
- Ready to transition into summer
- Well-suited to Coastal Virginia conditions
Plant them now, and you’ll head into summer with a garden that’s already established, already performing, and ready to thrive. To stay inspired and grow with us online, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok to explore more gardening tips and ideas.
