May is a fantastic time to plant flowers, herbs, and vegetables that will bring colour, fragrance, and fresh flavours to your garden throughout summer. With these gardening tips, you’ll have a thriving garden that’s full of life and beauty!
Flowers to Plant in May for a Stunning Summer Bloom
1. Marigolds – The Sun-Loving Protector
Marigolds are bright, cheerful, and naturally pest-resistant, making them a perfect choice for any summer garden.
Planting Tips:
* Choose a sunny location (at least 6 hours of sunlight daily).
* Space plants 8-10 inches apart for airflow and healthy growth.
* Water at the base to prevent fungal diseases on leaves.
2. Zinnias – Vibrant & Bee-Friendly Blooms
Zinnias come in a variety of bright colours and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Planting Tips:
* Directly sow seeds into warm, well-draining soil.
* Deadhead (remove spent blooms) to encourage continuous flowering.
* Avoid overhead watering to prevent mildew.
3. Sunflowers – The Tall Summer Showstopper
Sunflowers are easy to grow and create a beautiful statement piece in any garden.
Planting Tips:
* Choose a wind-protected area and provide stakes for tall varieties.
* Plant in full sun for strong, healthy stems.
* Water deeply but infrequently to promote strong root growth.
4. Petunias – Cascading Colour for Hanging Baskets
Petunias add a pop of colour to gardens, containers, and hanging baskets.
Planting Tips:
* Keep in a sunny spot (they need at least 5-6 hours of sunlight).
* Water consistently but avoid waterlogging.
* Remove dead flowers regularly to promote more blooms.
Herbs to Plant in May for a Flavourful Summer
1. Basil – The Ultimate Summer Herb
Basil grows quickly and abundantly, making it perfect for summer cooking.
Planting Tips:
* Place in full sun (6+ hours of sunlight).
* Pinch off flower buds to keep the plant producing fresh leaves.
* Water early in the morning to prevent wilting.
2. Mint – Fast-Growing & Refreshing
Mint is easy to grow but spreads rapidly, so container planting is best.
Planting Tips:
* Use a pot or a contained garden space to stop it from overtaking other plants.
* Harvest regularly to keep the plant healthy.
* Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
3. Rosemary – Fragrant & Low-Maintenance
Rosemary thrives in dry, sunny conditions and is a great herb for cooking.
Planting Tips:
* Plant in well-drained soil with lots of sun.
* Avoid overwatering—rosemary prefers drier soil.
*Trim stems regularly to promote bushy growth.
4. Chives – Perfect for Garnishing & Pollinators
Chives add a mild onion flavour to dishes and attract beneficial insects to your garden.
Planting Tips:
* Choose a partially shaded or sunny area.
* Water lightly but consistently to avoid drying out.
* Harvest by snipping stems at the base to encourage fresh growth.
Vegetables to Plant in May for a Delicious Summer Harvest
1. Tomatoes – A Summer Garden Staple
Tomatoes love the heat and produce delicious, juicy fruits all season long.
Planting Tips:
* Use stakes or cages to support heavy vines.
* Water deeply once or twice a week, rather than shallow daily watering.
* Remove the bottom leaves to prevent fungal infections.
2. Peppers – Sweet or Summer Favourite
Bell peppers and chili peppers love warm weather and grow well in May.
Planting Tips:
* Space plants 12-18 inches apart for proper airflow.
* Fertilize every 2-3 weeks for strong, healthy plants.
* Harvest regularly to encourage more fruit production.
3. Cucumbers – Crisp & Refreshing
Cucumbers grow quickly and abundantly in warm temperatures.
Planting Tips:
* Provide a trellis or support for climbing varieties.
* Keep the soil consistently moist to prevent bitterness.
* Harvest when young for crisp, sweet cucumbers.
4. Green Beans – High-Yield & Easy to Grow
Green beans are fast-growing and a perfect addition to any summer vegetable garden.
Planting Tips:
* Sow seeds directly into warm soil for fast germination.
* Provide trellises for climbing varieties like pole beans.
* Pick beans regularly to encourage continuous production.