From flowers to vegetables, there are plenty of jobs to be done in the garden in May
May offers gardeners an excellent opportunity, with blooms flourishing and a wealth of tasks to tackle. But it also signals the end of late frosts, opening up numerous opportunities to start cultivating vegetables and plants that thrive in milder conditions.
Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress, said: “There are so many options when it comes to planting in May. The garden really starts to come to life at this time of year, and we generally see the last frost, which creates many opportunities to plant flowers and other plants that love the warmer weather.
“The last frost really is crucial for a lot of plants, so make sure temperatures near you are consistently over around 10C before planting tender summer crops like tomatoes and courgettes.”
Tomatoes
The expert suggests this is an ideal moment to plant tomatoes, provided the threat of frost has disappeared.
The expert said: “Tomatoes love full sun in a sheltered spot and well-drained soil. Ideally, plant them deep into the soil so they can establish a strong root system.”
It’s advisable to maintain regular watering as the crop develops and provide support using canes, reports the Express.
Courgettes
Another vegetable well-suited for planting during May is courgette, as it typically grows swiftly once warmer temperatures arrive.
The expert said: “Courgettes need regular, generous watering at the base, and they should be harvested regularly to encourage more growth. Plant courgettes in a warm and sunny location in the garden in moisture-retentive soil.”
Lavender
Lavender makes a stunning addition to any garden during spring, bringing a delightful fragrance and proving ideal for pollinators.
Chris noted: “The warm soil in May helps lavender establish well. Be sure to plant it in a full-sun area and avoid overwatering, as they generally prefer dry conditions.
“When planting, keep space around the roots for airflow and continue to lightly trim the plant after flowering to keep it compact.”
Dahlias
May is a favoured month for planting dahlias, as they create an impressive summer display and come in a vast array of colours.
They should be positioned 10cm deep in fertile soil, in a sunny, sheltered area, with the shoots facing upwards.
The expert added: “Slugs also love dahlias, so consider creating barriers around young plants and use things like empty egg shells and coffee grounds to deter them.”
Sunflowers
Chris continued: “Those who are new to gardening should consider planting sunflowers. They’re easy for beginners to grow, and they often germinate quickly as the temperatures increase in May.
“Sow directly outdoors around 2cm deep in a sunny location and be sure to support any taller varieties with sturdy stakes.”
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