May is a magical month in the gardening world—it’s the perfect time to start planting for that dreamy summer garden! The weather is warm but not too hot, and the last frost is safely behind us in most regions, so you can start going wild with your plant choices. From vibrant flowers to delicious vegetables, there are so many options to choose from. But let’s be honest: with so many plants ready to thrive in May, it can be hard to know where to start.
So, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting to get your hands dirty, here’s a guide to the best plants to plant in May. We’ll discuss what makes them perfect for the season, their key characteristics, and the common mistakes you should avoid. Let’s dig in (pun intended)!
Best Plants to Plant in May
1. Zucchini
Zucchini is a summer squash that practically begs to be planted in May. As soon as the ground is warm enough, this plant thrives. Direct sow seeds straight into your garden; in just a few weeks, young plants start popping up. To flourish truly, zucchini needs full sun and well-drained soil. Ensure you give it enough space because zucchini can spread as it grows.
A common mistake gardeners make is planting zucchini too close together. This results in poor airflow, which invites mildew. Leave at least a few feet between plants to avoid overcrowding. Also, be sure to mulch around your plants to help retain moisture in the soil.
2. Marigolds
Looking for a splash of color in your yard? Marigolds are a vibrant addition to any flower garden and do wonders for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Their bright yellow and orange flowers bloom throughout the summer, making them a perfect companion for vegetable gardens, as they also repel pests like aphids and nematodes.
The key to success with marigolds is planting them in well-drained soil with plenty of sun. One mistake gardeners often make is over-watering, which can cause root rot. Instead, water them deeply but less frequently to keep them happy. Also, deadheading (removing spent flowers) encourages more blooms.
3. Pumpkins
Want to grow your very own pumpkins for fall? May is the perfect time to plant pumpkins, giving them enough time to mature before the colder months. Pumpkins need space to sprawl, so be sure to plant them in your garden’s large, sunny area. Once your pumpkin seeds are in the ground, you’ll notice quick growth if you keep the soil moist and weed-free.
Common mistakes: Overwatering pumpkins can lead to soggy soil, so be mindful of that balance. Also, be patient—pumpkins take their time to ripen and need consistent warmth to flourish, so don’t rush the harvest!
4. Lantana
This colorful flowering shrub thrives in warmer climates, making it an excellent choice for mid-May planting. Lantana produces vibrant blooms in shades of pink, red, orange, and yellow, adding a tropical feel to any lawn. The best part? It’s a magnet for butterflies, making your lawn a lively hub of activity.
Plant lantana in a sunny spot and water it regularly during its initial growth. A common mistake is not pruning the plant; lantana can get leggy if left unattended. Trim back the stems to encourage fuller growth and more seasonal blooms.
5. Tomatoes
Few things scream “summer garden” more than juicy, home-grown tomatoes. Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to grow, and May is the ideal month to start. Whether growing them from young plants or transplanting seedlings, plant them deeply in nutrient-rich soil and give them plenty of sun.
A standard error with tomatoes is over-fertilizing, which leads to lush foliage but fewer fruits. Use a balanced fertilizer and keep an eye on watering—tomatoes like consistent moisture but hate having wet feet. And don’t forget to stake them early on to support their growth!
6. Beets
Beets are another excellent vegetable to plant in May. They don’t occupy much space, so they’re perfect for gardens with limited room. Direct sow seeds in rows, and you’ll have fresh beets ready for harvest by mid-summer. They love cool weather, but by planting in May, you’ll get a jump on the heat of the season.
Watch out for overcrowding, as they need space to grow. Thin them out early for better bulb development. Regular watering and a layer of mulch will help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.
7. Purple Echinacea
Purple Echinacea is a must if you’re looking for a long-lasting flower that also benefits the ecosystem. These cone-shaped flowers add color to your lawn and are perfect for attracting pollinators like butterflies and bees. They’re low-maintenance and can thrive in poor soil, making them ideal for the beginner gardener.
When planting, be sure to give them enough space to spread. They can be prone to overcrowding, leading to poor airflow and fungal issues. Keep them in full light for the best results, and water them regularly but sparingly. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooming.
8. Asters
For late-season color, Asters are your go-to. These lovely perennials bloom in late summer, adding beauty to your yard when many other plants are winding down. They come in various colors like purple, blue, and pink, making them a versatile addition to any yard.
Asters need full sun to grow and benefit from regular watering. However, avoid soggy surface—well-drained soil is crucial. People often forget to divide Asters every couple of years, which can lead to overcrowding and smaller blooms.
9. Cabbage
Cabbage is a cool-weather crop, so planting it in May ensures it matures before the extreme summer heat kicks in. Mid-May is the perfect time to transplant young cabbage into your garden. They love fertile soil, so work in some compost before planting.
Be careful not to plant cabbage too close together, as good air circulation prevents diseases like mildew. Keep the ground consistently moist, but don’t let it become waterlogged, which can damage the roots. Harvest in early summer for the freshest, crunchiest cabbage.
10. Melon
If you dream of biting into fresh, juicy melon straight from your yard, May is the time to start planting. Melons flourish in warm weather, so once the ground has warmed up, plant them in bright light and give them plenty of room to sprawl.
One mistake gardeners make is over-watering melons, which can lead to poor fruit development. Be patient, and allow the ground to dry out between waterings. Fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer will help your melons grow big and sweet!
Conclusion
May is the perfect month for getting a head start on your summer yard. Whether you’re planting vegetables, flowers, or shrubs, a whole world of possibilities is waiting for you. From tomatoes and pumpkins to colorful marigolds and fragrant lantanas, the variety of plants you can grow in May is endless.
So, grab your gardening gloves and start planting! With some care, attention, and the right conditions, your garden will thrive quickly. Happy planting!
