Planting in May sets the stage for a bountiful summer garden. Here's a detailed guide on what vegetables, flowers, and herbs to sow during this month to ensure a successful and flourishing garden:
Vegetables to Sow in May:
- Tomatoes: Start with tomato seedlings or sow tomato seeds indoors early in May for transplanting later in the month. Choose varieties suitable for your climate and garden space.
- Peppers: Similar to tomatoes, peppers can be started indoors in early May and transplanted once the weather warms up. Bell peppers, chili peppers, and sweet peppers are popular choices.
- Cucumbers: Sow cucumber seeds directly into the garden soil once all danger of frost has passed. Provide them with support or trellising for vertical growth.
- Zucchini and Summer Squash: Directly sow zucchini and summer squash seeds in well-drained soil in a sunny spot. These plants thrive in warm weather and produce abundantly.
- Green Beans: Plant bush or pole bean seeds directly into the garden soil in May. They require regular watering and can be harvested in summer.
- Corn: If you have ample space, consider planting corn in blocks (not single rows) for better pollination. Corn thrives in warm soil, so wait until the soil temperature is consistently above 60°F (15°C).
- Basil: Start basil seeds indoors in early May for transplanting or sow directly into the garden once the weather warms up. Basil loves warm temperatures and sunlight.
Flowers to Sow in May:
- Zinnias: Sow zinnia seeds directly into well-prepared garden beds for vibrant summer blooms. Zinnias are easy to grow and attract pollinators.
- Marigolds: Start marigold seeds indoors or sow them directly into the garden. Marigolds are excellent companion plants that deter pests and add cheerful color to the garden.
- Cosmos: Directly sow cosmos seeds in May for beautiful, airy flowers that bloom throughout the summer. They are drought-tolerant and attract butterflies.
- Sunflowers: Plant sunflower seeds directly into the soil in May for towering summer blooms. Choose from different varieties based on size and flower color.
- Morning Glories: Sow morning glory seeds in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. These fast-growing vines add a vertical element to the garden and produce stunning flowers.
Herbs to Sow in May:
- Basil: As mentioned earlier, start basil seeds indoors or sow them directly into the garden. Basil thrives in warm weather and is a staple herb in summer cooking.
- Cilantro: Directly sow cilantro seeds in May for a continuous harvest of fresh leaves. Cilantro prefers cooler temperatures, so plant it in a partially shaded spot.
- Dill: Sow dill seeds directly into the garden soil. Dill attracts beneficial insects and can be harvested for culinary use or for making pickles.
- Parsley: Start parsley seeds indoors or sow them directly into the garden. Parsley is a versatile herb used in various culinary dishes.
By planting these vegetables, flowers, and herbs in May, you'll be well on your way to enjoying a vibrant and productive summer garden. Remember to provide adequate water, sunlight, and care according to the specific needs of each plant. And remember to use your Red Garden Shovel and Potting Scoop to make the process more enjoyable! Happy gardening!