June 3, 2025

What to Plant in June in Michigan


June is a beautiful month in Michigan — warm days, cool nights, and soil that’s finally warmed up enough for serious planting. Whether you’re looking to add bold color, texture, or structure to your landscape, it’s not too late to plant! At Everett’s Garden, we’ve hand-picked some top-performing plants that thrive when planted in early summer.

Here’s what you can confidently get in the ground in Michigan this June:

Flowering Shrubs

June is a great time to plant flowering shrubs that will provide seasonal color and long-term impact. Some favorites we carry at Everett’s Gardens include:

  • Hydrangeas (panicle, smooth, and bigleaf varieties) – blooming from summer into fall, these are must-haves for curb appeal.
  • Spirea – compact, low-maintenance, and re-blooming with vibrant foliage and blooms.
  • Ninebark

Tip: Water well through the first season to help them get established.


Perennials

Perennials planted in June will establish strong roots and may even bloom their first year. These are excellent choices for borders, pollinator gardens, and layered beds:

  • Echinacea (Coneflower) – drought-tolerant and pollinator-friendly.
  • Salvia – long-blooming and deer-resistant.
  • Hostas – ideal for shady areas and add beautiful foliage texture.

We offer a wide variety of Michigan-hardy perennials that will return year after year with minimal fuss.


Japanese Maples

Looking to add elegance and structure to your landscape? Japanese maples are best planted in spring or early summer while the roots can settle in before fall. In June, the weather still allows for good root development, especially if you mulch and water regularly.

  • ‘Bloodgood’ Japanese Maple – classic deep red leaves.
  • Baldsmith
  • Chitoseyama

Tip: Protect from hot afternoon sun for best results.


Potted Evergreens

June is a great time to plant container-grown evergreens. These offer year-round structure and privacy, and planting now gives them plenty of time to root before winter.

  • Globe Blue Spruce
  • Angel Fall White Pine
  • Goldthreads

Make sure to water consistently during dry spells in summer and fall.


Shade Trees

If your yard could use some natural cooling and long-term value, now is the time to plant a shade tree. By planting in June, you give the tree a full growing season to establish.

Top picks for Michigan yards include:

  • Red Maple – fast-growing with beautiful fall color.
  • Sugar Maple – native and stunning in autumn.
  • Red Oak – strong, adaptable, and great for wildlife.

Plant with mulch and water deeply to support healthy root growth.


Ornamental Trees

Ornamental trees add charm, color, and seasonal interest. Whether you’re looking for spring blooms, unique bark, or fall color, you’ll find plenty of great choices at Everett’s Gardens:

  • Dogwood – classic spring beauty with year-round appeal.
  • Redbud 
  • Stewartia

Visit Everett’s Gardens This June

At Everett’s Gardens in Byron Center, we carry a wide selection of flowering shrubs, perennials, trees, and evergreens — all selected for success in Michigan landscapes. Our knowledgeable team is here to help you choose the right plants for your yard and guide you through proper planting and care.

Happy planting! 🌳🌸

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—Janelle Coyne