May is a month of lush growth and early summer colour in the garden. Days are long and warm, the soil is ready, and everything is growing at pace. Borders are full and vibrant, with flowers coming thick and fast; it’s one of the most rewarding and active times to be outside.

Planting and Sowing
This is a key month for planting and filling your garden:
Vegetables outdoors: Sow carrots, beetroot, lettuce, beans, courgettes and sweetcorn directly.
Tender crops: Plant out tomatoes, peppers and squash once ready.
Herbs: Sow or plant basil, parsley and coriander.
Flowers: Sow and plant annuals for summer displays, and fill containers and baskets.

Soil Care and Mulching

• Keep beds mulched to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  
• Hoe regularly to stay on top of fast-growing weeds.
  
• Feed soil and containers with compost or liquid fertiliser.
  

Plant Care and Maintenance

• Tie in climbers such as clematis and sweet peas.
  
• Deadhead spring flowers to encourage more blooms.
  
• Stake taller plants like delphiniums and lupins.
  
• Water regularly, especially newly planted areas and containers.
  

Lawn Care

• Mow frequently as growth speeds up.
  
• Feed lawns to keep them green and healthy.
  
• Repair any worn or patchy areas.
  

Fruit and Vegetable Maintenance

• Support climbing crops like beans and peas.
  
• Feed fruit trees and bushes as they develop.
  
• Thin out seedlings where needed.
  
• Harvest early crops such as salads, radishes and herbs.
  

Pests, Diseases, and Greenhouse Care

• Keep an eye out for slugs, snails and aphids.
  
• Ventilate greenhouses and water regularly.
  
• Continue potting on young plants.
  

Garden Structures and Planning

• Put supports in place early for climbers and tall plants.
  
• Check watering systems and keep hoses ready.
  
• Fill gaps in borders as planting continues.
  

Final Thoughts

May is full of energy and growth. With regular care; watering, feeding and supporting plants; your garden will quickly become lush, colourful and ready to enjoy through the summer months ahead.