May is a month filled with excitement for gardeners. The last of the frosty days are behind us, and it’s time to start planting a wide variety of flowers, herbs, and vegetables. Whether you have a small plot in your backyard or a larger area to work with, May is the perfect time to get started.
One of the best things about this period is that you can now directly plant your crops in the ground, without the need for containers or a greenhouse. The ground has warmed up enough, and the risk of frost has passed in most areas. This means you can start sowing seeds for tomatoes, carrots, squash, sweetcorn, and many other crops.
If you’re looking for some ideas on what to grow this month, you won’t want to miss out on planting flowering herbs like cilantro and dill. These herbs not only add flavor to your kitchen, but their beautiful leaves make a lovely addition to any vase. Start by sowing the seeds directly outside in a sunny spot, and you’ll have fresh herbs in no time.
Another exciting crop to plant in May is nasturtium. These vibrant flowers not only brighten up your garden but also make a delicious addition to salads and other dishes. They are very easy to grow from seed, and their leaves and flowers are both edible.
For those who want to try something a bit different, consider growing some rubenza sunflowers. These stunning flowers, also known as velvet queen or black-eyed Susan, are a beautiful addition to any garden. You can start them as seeds indoors or directly in the ground.
May is also a great time to start taking cuttings from flowering perennials such as echinacea or achillea. By using this propagation method, you can save money and multiply your plants. Just make sure to take the cuttings from healthy plants with many leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to help it establish roots faster.
When it comes to gardening advice, there is always so much to learn. Each year, you might discover new techniques or find that some crops perform better in your specific area. It’s important to create space in your inbox for the wealth of knowledge and guidance that experienced gardeners can offer.
“Sowing the right crops at the right time is key,” says an expert gardener. “You’ll want to make sure your soil is well-prepared and rich in nutrients before planting. Don’t forget to water your plants regularly and keep an eye out for pests.”
With all these tips and ideas, you’re well-equipped for an exciting month of growing and sowing. Don’t miss the opportunity to add some new flowers, herbs, and vegetables to your garden this May. Happy planting!
What to plant in May – vegetables to sow or plant
In the month of May, there are many vegetables that you can sow or plant in your garden. Whether you have a sunny spot in your garden or a greenhouse, you can start growing some delicious vegetables to enjoy later in the year. Here are some good choices for vegetables to plant in May:
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are always a favorite among gardeners. They need a warm and sunny spot to grow well. Start by sowing tomato seeds indoors in pots, and once they have grown a few inches tall, you can transplant them outdoors. Give them enough space to spread out and grow, at least 2 feet apart.
Carrots
Carrots are a versatile vegetable that can be added to salads or used in many other dishes. Sow carrot seeds directly into the soil, making sure to space them out thinly. You’ll need to cover the seeds with a layer of soil that is about twice as deep as the size of the seed. Keep the soil well-watered and weed-free for a successful crop.
Squash
Squash is another vegetable that can be sown directly into the soil. These plants need plenty of space to spread out, so make sure to give them enough room to grow. You can also start squash seeds indoors and transplant them outdoors when the weather is warmer. Squash plants need attention to see if any pests, such as squash vine borers, which are black with red legs, have invaded them.
Herbs
Herbs are a great addition to any garden. They not only add flavor to your dishes but also attract pollinators to your garden. Some herbs that you can sow or plant in May include coriander, basil, and parsley. Sow these herbs thinly in rows in a sunny spot in your garden. The leaves can be used fresh in your cooking or dried for later use.
Nasturtium
Nasturtium is an edible flower that can be grown in your garden. It has vibrant flowers that add color to your garden and can also be used in salads. Sow nasturtium seeds directly into the soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil. The plants will grow and spread, giving you a lovely carpet of flowers to enjoy.
Rubenza
Rubenza is a type of beetroot that has deep red leaves. It can be grown in the same way as regular beetroot. Sow the seeds directly into the soil, making sure to thin them out as they grow. The leaves can be added to salads or cooked like spinach. Harvest the roots when they reach the desired size.
These are just a few ideas of vegetables that you can sow or plant in May. Whether you have a small garden or a large greenhouse, there are plenty of options to choose from. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to grow your own vegetables this month! Happy planting!
1 Sweetcorn
One of the most popular vegetables to plant in May is sweetcorn. Sweetcorn is a delicious crop that can be enjoyed fresh off the cob or used in a variety of dishes. Whether you have a large garden plot or just a small corner of your backyard, sweetcorn is a great option to consider adding to your garden this year.
When it comes to planting sweetcorn, it’s important to keep in mind that it is a warm-season crop. This means that you should wait until the soil has warmed up before planting. In most areas, this is typically around May or June. Sweetcorn plants prefer full sun and well-drained soil, so make sure to choose a sunny spot in your garden to plant them.
You can start sweetcorn indoors using seeds or purchase young plants from nurseries. If starting from seeds, plant them indoors in small pots about four weeks before the last expected frost date. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, you can transplant them outside into the ground. Make sure to space the plants about 12-15 inches apart to allow room for growth.
Sweetcorn plants require a lot of attention and water, especially during the warmer months. Make sure to water them regularly and keep the soil moist. Also, sweetcorn plants can be quite tall, so it’s important to give them enough space to grow without shading other plants in your garden.
If you’re planting sweetcorn outdoors, you can sow the seeds directly into the ground. Plant the seeds about an inch deep and space them about 9-12 inches apart. Cover the seeds with soil and lightly water them. Sweetcorn seeds should germinate in about 7-10 days.
When it comes to harvesting sweetcorn, you’ll know it’s ready to pick when the husks turn brown and the corn tassels turn dark. To enjoy sweetcorn at its best, harvest it during the early morning or late evenings when the temperatures are cooler. You can enjoy sweetcorn fresh off the cob, boiled, grilled, or even added to salads or stir-fries.
So, if you’re looking for a fun and exciting vegetable to grow in your garden this year, sweetcorn is definitely worth considering. With the right attention and care, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious homegrown sweetcorn all summer long.
2 Tomatoes
Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in pots or in the ground, and May is an exciting time to start sowing them. Whether you prefer sweet cherry tomatoes or large beefsteak varieties, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to tomatoes.
Start sowing tomato seeds indoors in early May, around 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. This will give them enough time to grow into strong and healthy plants before being planted outside.
When sowing tomato seeds, it’s important to sow them thinly and space them well in seed trays or pots. Tomato seeds should be sown at a depth of 0.25 inches and kept in a warm and sunny spot. Ensure the compost is moist but not waterlogged, as this could cause the seeds to rot.
If you prefer to grow tomatoes directly in the ground, wait until all danger of frost has passed and the weather is consistently warmer. Tomato plants are half-hardy, so they should not be planted outside until the risk of frost is minimal.
Before planting tomatoes in the ground, dig trenches and add well-rotted compost or manure to each trench. This will provide the plants with essential nutrients and help them grow well. Space the tomato plants about 24-36 inches apart to allow for proper growth and airflow.
Tomatoes can also be grown in large pots or containers. Ensure the pots have drainage holes and use good quality compost. Half-fill the pots with compost and place the tomato plants in the centers, firming the compost gently around the roots. Water the plants well after planting.
Once tomatoes are planted, they will require regular watering and feeding. Tomatoes are heavy feeders, so it’s important to provide them with nutrients throughout the growing period. Use a balanced fertilizer, following the instructions on the packaging.
Tomatoes can take around 12-16 weeks from sowing to harvest, depending on the variety. As the plants grow, it’s important to support them with stakes or cages to prevent them from falling over.
Tomatoes are versatile fruits that can be used in a variety of dishes. From salads to pasta sauces, tomatoes add a burst of flavor and color to any meal. They can also be eaten fresh, straight from the garden.
So, if you’ve been dreaming of juicy, homegrown tomatoes, don’t sleep on this opportunity to start sowing them in May. Whether you choose to grow them in pots or directly in the ground, tomatoes are a rewarding crop that will bring joy to your garden and your plate for years to come.
3 Squash
1. Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is a popular choice for growing in May. It is a winter squash that produces large fruits with sweet, nutty flavors. The plants require full sun and well-drained soil. Start the seeds indoors in pots or trays, and then transplant them outdoors when the weather is warmer. Plant the squash in mounds or rows, at least 3 feet apart. Regularly water the plants to keep the soil moist, and provide them with a trellis or support for the vines to climb. Harvest the butternut squash when the fruits are fully mature and the skin turns hard and deep orange.
2. Zucchini Squash
Zucchini squash is another great option to plant in May. It is a summer squash that produces abundant fruits with tender and mild flavors. The plants are easy to grow and can be started indoors or directly sown outdoors. Plant the seeds in well-drained soil, in hills or rows about 3-4 feet apart. Water the plants regularly and keep the soil evenly moist. Zucchini plants are heavy feeders, so it is important to provide them with organic fertilizer or compost for better growth. Harvest the zucchini when they are young and tender, usually when they are about 6-8 inches long.
3. Pattypan Squash
Pattypan squash, also known as summer scallop squash, is an exciting and unique option to add to your garden. It is a summer squash that comes in various colors and shapes, resembling small flying saucers. Pattypan squash plants are easy to grow and can be started from seeds indoors or directly sown outdoors. Plant the seeds in well-drained soil, in hills or rows about 2-3 feet apart. Water the plants regularly and provide them with full sun. Harvest the pattypan squash when they are young and tender, usually when they are about 3-4 inches in diameter.
Squash plants are generally low-maintenance and can be a great addition to your garden. They can also be grown in containers or pots if you don’t have a lot of space. Just make sure to provide them with enough room for their vines to spread out. You can also try planting them alongside other vegetables and herbs to maximize space and create a diverse garden ecosystem. Squash plants can attract pollinators and beneficial insects, helping to keep pests at bay.
4 Carrots
Carrots are a popular choice for home gardeners due to their versatility and high nutritional value. They are rich in nutrients such as vitamin A and beta-carotene, making them a great addition to salads, soups, and many other dishes.
Growing Carrots
To start growing carrots, prepare the soil by removing any large stones or debris. Carrots prefer well-drained soil, so make sure to add organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage.
Carrots can be sown directly into the ground or in pots. If sowing outdoors, make shallow drills in the soil and cover the seeds thinly. Place a fleece or black velvet sheets over the soil to keep it moist and protect it from birds.
Harvesting Carrots
Carrots usually take around 10-12 weeks to mature. When the leaves start to turn yellow, it’s a sign that they are ready for harvest. Gently lift the carrots from the ground using a garden fork or your hands. Be careful not to break them.
Expert Tips
- If you want to have a continuous crop of carrots, stagger your sowings every 2-3 weeks.
- Carrots can also be grown in containers or pots, making them a great choice for small gardens or balconies.
- Carrot seeds can also be sown indoors and transplanted later into the ground or larger pots.
- Carrots can be stored for several months in a cool, dark place. Remove the tops before storage to prevent them from drawing moisture from the roots.
Carrots are a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, growing carrots can be a rewarding experience. Start planting your carrots now and enjoy a fresh harvest in the months to come!
Salad and herbs to plant in May
As the weather starts to warm up in May, it’s the perfect time to start planting salad greens and herbs. Whether you have an outdoors plot or a greenhouse, there are plenty of options to choose from. It’s always a good idea to consult with experts in your area to ensure you’re planting the right crops for your specific conditions. Here are some ideas for salad greens and herbs that you can plant in May:
Salad Greens
In terms of salad greens, there are many options to choose from. Lettuce is always a popular choice and can be planted directly outside. You can also start lettuce seeds indoors and then transplant them outside once they have established strong roots. Other salad greens that can be planted in May include spinach, kale, arugula, and Swiss chard. These greens can be grown outdoors or in a greenhouse.
Herbs
When it comes to herbs, May is the perfect time to start planting them. Many herbs can be grown directly outside, while others may benefit from being started indoors first. Some popular herbs to plant in May include basil, cilantro, parsley, dill, and chives. These herbs can be grown in pots or directly in the ground. Herbs like basil and cilantro will also provide beautiful flowering heads that can attract pollinators to your garden.
If you’re looking for something a little more unusual, you could consider planting kiwi vines or Amazon rubenza squash. Kiwi vines need a good amount of space and attention, but they can produce delicious fruit in a few years’ time. Amazon rubenza squash is a unique variety with beautiful velvet leaves and is a good choice for adding interest to your garden.
Whether you’re starting from seed or transplanting young plants, make sure to give your salad greens and herbs ample water. May can still have some chilly evenings, so keep an eye on the weather and protect your plants if necessary. Always be on the lookout for pests and give attention to areas where they may be prone to infestation. Overall, May is a great month to start your salad and herb garden and enjoy fresh, home-grown greens throughout the summer.
1 Lettuce
Lettuce is a nutritious and versatile leafy vegetable that can be easily grown in your garden. There are many different varieties to choose from, including iceberg, romaine, and butterhead lettuce. In May, you can start sowing lettuce seeds in both containers and directly in your garden.
Key points:
- Choose a sunny spot in your garden to plant your lettuce. If you are using containers, make sure they have good drainage.
- Prepare the soil by adding compost or well-rotted manure to improve its nutrient content.
- For lettuce varieties like ‘Rubenza’ or ‘Black Velvet’ that have darker leaves, it’s best to plant them in a location where they will receive partial shade.
- Sow the lettuce seeds thinly in rows, about half an inch deep, and keep the rows 12-18 inches apart to allow space for the lettuce to grow.
- Water the seeds and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate. Lettuce prefers regular watering, especially during dry spells.
- Thin out the lettuce seedlings once they have grown a few inches tall. Space them about 6 inches apart to give them enough room to develop.
- For a continuous harvest, sow lettuce seeds every couple of weeks so that you have a steady supply of fresh lettuce throughout the growing season.
- Protect your lettuce crop from pests like slugs, snails, and aphids by using organic pest control methods or physical barriers.
- Harvest lettuce leaves when they are young and tender. You can either cut the leaves or pull up the entire plant, depending on your preference.
If you follow these guidelines, you will be able to enjoy fresh and delicious lettuce in your salads throughout the summer months.
2 Cilantro – coriander
Experts recommend planting cilantro, also known as coriander, in May as it thrives in the warm weather and long days. Cilantro is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to soups and curries. It adds a fresh and vibrant flavor to any dish.
To grow cilantro, start by sowing the seeds thinly in pots or directly in the ground. The plants should be spaced about 6 to 8 inches apart to allow for proper growth. Cilantro prefers well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients, so make sure to amend the soil with compost before planting.
If you want to grow cilantro in a greenhouse, you can plant the seeds in small pots and then transplant the seedlings once they are about 2 inches tall. This will allow the plants to establish a strong root system before being placed outside.
Cilantro is a fast-growing herb, and you can expect to see the plants flowering within a few weeks of sowing. However, once the plant starts to flower, the leaves may become bitter. To ensure a continuous harvest, it’s best to sow cilantro seeds every few weeks throughout the growing season.
Cilantro is a delicate herb that does not tolerate heat well, so it’s important to provide some shade for the plants during the hottest part of the day. You can use a cover cloth or plant the cilantro in a location that gets some afternoon shade.
Cilantro is a great companion plant for vegetables like tomatoes and carrots, as it helps repel pests and encourages healthy growth. Consider planting cilantro near these crops to protect them from insect damage.
When it comes time to harvest cilantro, you can simply snip off the leaves as needed. The leaves can be used fresh in dishes or dried for later use. To keep cilantro fresh for a longer period, place the stems in a vase of water and cover the leaves with a plastic bag. This will help prolong its shelf life.
Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting out, cilantro is an exciting herb to grow. Its unique flavor and versatility make it a valuable addition to any home garden. So why not give it a try this month?
3 Dill
Dill is a popular choice for herb gardens, and May is a great time to start growing it. This early-flowering herb is easy to grow and can add a fresh taste to your dishes. Whether you’re growing dill in pots or directly in the ground, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, make sure to water your dill regularly. Dill plants prefer moist soil, so you may need to water them more often in dry areas or during hot weather. Keep in mind that dill is prone to bolting in warmer weather, so it’s best to harvest it before the hot summer months.
If you’re growing dill in a greenhouse or indoors, you can start sowing the seeds in trays or pots. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and keep the soil moist. Dill seeds usually take around 10-14 days to germinate, so be patient!
If you’re planting dill outside, you can sow the seeds directly into the ground. Make sure to space them about 12 inches apart. Dill plants can grow quite tall, so make sure to provide support if necessary.
In terms of soil, dill prefers well-draining soil that’s rich in nutrients. If your soil is sandy or heavy clay, consider adding organic matter or compost to improve its texture. Dill plants also benefit from a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Once your dill plants start flowering, you can harvest the leaves for culinary use. Dill leaves are best used fresh, but you can also dry them for later use. Simply cut the desired amount of leaves, rinse them, and pat them dry before using or drying.
Dill plants can attract beneficial insects, such as butterflies and bees, to your garden. They can also act as trap plants for pests like aphids, keeping them away from your other vegetables.
Dill is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and soups to pickles and seafood. Its fresh, sweet flavor adds a unique touch to any meal.
So if you’re looking to add some flavor to your garden and kitchen, give dill a try this May. You’ll be rewarded with a delicious herb that’s easy to grow and harvest!
Flowers to sow in May
Spring is the perfect time to sow flowers and watch them bloom into a beautiful garden. In May, gardeners have a wide range of options when it comes to choosing flowers to sow. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced gardener, here is a list of flowers that are perfect for sowing in May.
1. Sweet Peas
Sweet peas are one of the most popular flowers to sow in May. They are easy to grow and produce beautiful, fragrant blooms. You can either sow them directly into the ground or start them off indoors and then transplant them into your garden. They prefer a sunny spot and well-drained soil.
2. Nigella
Nigella, also known as love-in-a-mist, is another flower that can be sown in May. It has delicate blue flowers that are surrounded by feathery leaves. Nigella is a hardy annual that can tolerate a range of soil types and weather conditions. It is great for adding texture to your garden.
3. Cosmos
Cosmos is a half-hardy annual that can be sown in May. It produces large, daisy-like flowers in a variety of colors, including white, pink, and purple. Cosmos plants are easy to grow and can be started from seed. They are perfect for adding a splash of color to your garden.
4. Zinnias
Zinnias are another popular choice for sowing in May. They are fast-growing annuals that produce vibrant, colorful flowers. Zinnias come in a wide range of colors, from bright reds and oranges to soft pinks and yellows. They are great for attracting butterflies and bees to your garden.
5. Sunflowers
Sunflowers are an iconic summer flower that can be sown in May. They are fast-growing and can reach impressive heights. Sunflowers come in a variety of sizes and colors, from the classic yellow sunflowers to the smaller red and black varieties. They are perfect for adding a touch of sunshine to your garden.
Remember to follow the instructions on the seed packet when sowing your flowers in May. Some flowers may require specific conditions or treatments before sowing. With proper care and attention, your flowers will soon be blooming and adding beauty to your garden.
1 Cerinthe major ‘Kiwi Blue’ – honeywort
If you’re looking for a unique and eye-catching plant to grow in your garden, Cerinthe major ‘Kiwi Blue’ – honeywort is an excellent choice. This hardy annual has beautiful blue-green foliage and tubular purple-blue flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
To grow Cerinthe major ‘Kiwi Blue’, you can start by creating trenches in your garden. Make sure to choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. The trenches should be about 1 inch deep and 12-18 inches apart.
Sow the Cerinthe major ‘Kiwi Blue’ seeds thinly in the trenches and cover them with soil. Water the area regularly to keep the soil moist, but not wet.
After about 2-3 weeks, you should start to see the seedlings emerge. As the plants continue to grow, make sure to thin them out if they become overcrowded. This will allow each plant enough space to grow and thrive.
Cerinthe major ‘Kiwi Blue’ is a relatively low-maintenance plant. It is generally pest-free and doesn’t require much attention. However, you can give it a boost by applying a balanced fertilizer every few weeks.
Once the plant reaches maturity, you can enjoy its beautiful foliage and flowers throughout the summer months. Cerinthe major ‘Kiwi Blue’ is a great addition to flower beds, borders, and containers. It can also be used as a cut flower in floral arrangements.
So, if you’re looking for something different to add to your garden this May, consider planting Cerinthe major ‘Kiwi Blue’ – honeywort. Its unique beauty and easy growing habits make it a great choice for any gardener.
2 Nasturtium ‘Black Velvet’
If you’re looking to add a touch of drama to your garden, Nasturtium ‘Black Velvet’ is the perfect choice. With its deep black flowers and bold foliage, it is sure to make a statement. This half-hardy annual can be grown both indoors and outdoors, making it a versatile option for gardeners.
Nasturtium ‘Black Velvet’ is a climbing variety, so it will need some support as it grows. You can plant it against a trellis or fence, or even let it scramble up a wall. Just make sure to provide it with something to cling to.
This plant thrives in sunny locations, so find a spot in your garden that receives plenty of sun throughout the day. It has a long flowering period, starting from early summer and lasting well into autumn. During this time, it will produce an abundance of black flowers that will add an elegant touch to your garden.
In terms of care, Nasturtium ‘Black Velvet’ is relatively low maintenance. It doesn’t need much water, and in fact, overwatering can cause the plant to become droopy. Just make sure to water it regularly, especially during dry periods.
Nasturtium ‘Black Velvet’ is a great addition to any edible garden. Its leaves and flowers have a peppery flavor that is perfect for adding a kick to salads or garnishing dishes. You can even use the flowers to make a colorful and flavorful vinegar.
If you want to start growing Nasturtium ‘Black Velvet’ from seed, the best time to sow is after the last frosts have passed. Sow the seeds directly in the ground or in pots, about 2 cm deep. Make sure to space them about 30 cm apart to give the plants room to grow.
Once the plants have established, they will need very little attention. Just make sure to keep the soil moist and provide them with some nutrients, especially if you’re growing them in pots. You can use a liquid fertilizer or organic matter to give them a boost.
Nasturtium ‘Black Velvet’ is a great companion plant for many crops. Its flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which can help improve the yield of vegetables like tomatoes and sweetcorn. It also acts as a natural pest repellent, keeping pests like aphids and caterpillars at bay.
In summary, Nasturtium ‘Black Velvet’ is a stunning and versatile plant that can add a touch of elegance to your garden. With its black flowers and bold foliage, it is sure to stand out. Whether you plant it as a climbing vine or use it as a ground cover, it is sure to be a showstopper.
3 Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Rubenza’
Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Rubenza’ is a beautiful flowering plant that is perfect for adding a pop of color to your garden. It features stunning burgundy velvet petals that stand out in any garden or flowerbed.
This variety of cosmos is very easy to grow from seed and can also be propagated from cuttings. It prefers sunny areas and well-drained soil. To ensure good results, sow the seeds in trenches spaced about 30cm apart and then cover them with a layer of soil. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes around 7-14 days.
Cosmos ‘Rubenza’ is a great addition to any garden as it attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. It can also be cut and used in floral arrangements or as a centerpiece for a vase. The plants can grow up to 90cm in height, so make sure to provide them with enough space to grow.
These plants are quite hardy and can withstand mild frosts, but they don’t like extremely cold weather. If you live in an area with harsh winters, it’s best to start the seeds indoors and transplant them outside once the weather warms up.
Cosmos plants don’t require a lot of maintenance, but they can be susceptible to pests like aphids and slugs. Keep an eye out for any signs of damage and take appropriate action to protect your plants. Regularly removing any weeds around the plants will also help them grow better.
Cosmos ‘Rubenza’ can be a great addition to your garden, adding a touch of elegance and color. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these plants are easy to grow and will reward you with stunning blooms throughout the summer months.
What is best to plant in May
In May, as the weather becomes warmer and the risk of frost decreases, gardeners have the perfect opportunity to start sowing a wide variety of plants, including flowers, herbs, and vegetables. Here are some top suggestions for what to plant in May:
1. Flowers
May is the perfect time to sow nasturtium seeds directly into the ground. Nasturtiums are easy to grow and their vibrant flowers can add a splash of color to any garden. Whether you want a climbing variety or a compact one for pots, nasturtiums are a great choice.
2. Herbs
This is the ideal time to sow herbs like coriander outdoors. Coriander can be grown from seed and its flavorful leaves are perfect for adding a fresh taste to salads and other dishes. Sowing directly in the garden will give the plants plenty of space to grow and thrive.
3. Vegetables
If you have a greenhouse or a sheltered area in your garden, May is a good time to sow half-hardy crops such as tomatoes. By starting them indoors, you can give them a head start before transplanting them outside after the last frosts. Varieties like ‘Rubenza’ or ‘Black Cherry’ are especially exciting to grow.
If you prefer to sow directly outside, you can start sowing crops like kiwi, which will establish quickly in the warmer weather.
4. General Advice
- Before sowing, make sure the soil is well-prepared and weed-free.
- Pay attention to the terms on seed packets and plan accordingly.
- Remember to water newly sown seeds regularly, especially during dry periods.
- If the weather is still cold or there is a risk of frost, use fleece or cloche to protect your crops.
- Consider using mulch or black plastic sheets to help keep the soil warm and suppress weed growth.
- Give your plants enough space to grow by thinning them out as they develop.
- Start sowing in the evenings when the temperatures are warmer and the sun is less intense.
By following these tips and suggestions, you can make the most of May and enjoy a bountiful harvest later in the summer.
What should I do in my garden in May
In the month of May, the garden starts to come alive with vibrant colors and lush greenery. It is a very busy time for gardeners, as there is a long list of tasks that need to be done to keep the garden looking its best. Here is a list of things that you should consider doing in your garden this month:
1. Planting
If you haven’t already done so, May is the perfect time to start sowing seeds directly in the soil. This includes herbs like dill and coriander, which can be planted in dedicated trenches. You can also plant flowers like rubenza and green velvet directly in the soil. For better results, it is always advisable to follow the advice of experts or the instructions on the seed packets.
2. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a staple in many home gardens, and May is the time to start growing them. If the weather is still too cold in your area, you can start them off in pots inside a greenhouse or on a sunny windowsill. Once the weather gets warmer, you can then transplant them outside into your garden. Tomatoes are climbing plants, so make sure to provide them with stakes or supports for better growth.
3. Carrots
Carrots are another crop that can be sown directly in the soil in May. They need deep, well-drained soil and regular watering. Make sure to keep them apart to avoid overcrowding, as this can result in misshapen or stunted carrots. Carrots are also great for growing in pots, so if you don’t have a garden plot, you can still enjoy homegrown carrots.
4. Salads
May is the perfect time to start sowing salad crops. Lettuce, rocket, and other leafy greens can be directly sown in shallow trenches or containers. They are fast-growing and can be harvested within a few weeks. To ensure a continuous supply of fresh salad greens, it is recommended to sow a new batch every couple of weeks.
5. Watering
As the weather gets warmer, plants will need more water to thrive. Make sure to water your plants deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells. However, be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to waterlogging and promote the growth of pests and diseases.
6. Pest control
Keep an eye out for pests in your garden, such as aphids, slugs, and snails. Regularly check the undersides of leaves and the soil for any signs of infestation. If you spot any pests, take appropriate measures to control them, such as using organic insecticides or implementing physical barriers.
7. Enjoy the outdoors
May is a beautiful time to spend in the garden, so make the most of it! Arrange cut flowers in a vase to bring a bit of the outdoors into your home. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the fruits of your labor as you soak up the sun and appreciate the beauty that your garden has to offer.
By following these tips, your garden will be in great shape this month. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, May is the perfect time to get your hands dirty and create a beautiful outdoor space.