Summer's Coming: What to Plant in May
Vegetables, Flowers, and Summer Prep for All Zones
As the days grow longer and temperatures rise, May is a month of opportunity in the garden.
Whether you're starting fresh or building on your spring efforts, knowing what to plant in May can set you up for a productive and vibrant summer garden. This guide breaks down what to plant by zone, how to prepare your garden for summer heat, and practical tips for success.
Why May Is a Critical Month for Gardeners
Understanding what to plant in May means capitalizing on warm soil, favorable weather, and long daylight hours. However, your choices will still vary depending on your USDA growing zone, average temperatures, and rainfall.
In most regions, May is the final month to plant summer crops before the heat intensifies. It’s also the right time to transition your garden care routine to focus on hydration, pest control, and heat resilience.
Know Your Zone Before You Plant
Before choosing what to plant in May, check your USDA Hardiness Zone. This tells you your frost dates, temperature ranges, and what plants thrive in your area.
Zones 3–5 (Cooler Climates): You’re just getting started! May is your prime planting month.
Zones 6–8 (Mild Climates): Warm-season crops are ready to go into the ground.
Zones 9–11 (Hotter Climates): Focus on heat-tolerant plants and preparing for summer stress.
🥕 Vegetables
Here’s what to plant in May to make the most of your vegetable garden:
Warm-Season Vegetables (Zones 3–10)
May is the perfect time to plant these sun-loving crops:
Tomatoes – Stake or cage early and plant deeply.
Peppers (bell, jalapeño, chili) – Thrive in warm soil and full sun.
Corn – Plant in blocks for better pollination.
Beans (pole and bush) – Fast growers and high yield.
Cucumbers – Give them space or vertical support.
Zucchini and Summer Squash – Prolific and easy to grow.
Eggplant – Needs heat to thrive; mulch for moisture.
Okra – Ideal for southern zones and drought-tolerant.
Greens & Fast Crops
Even in May, quick-growing greens can thrive:
Lettuce (heat-tolerant varieties) – Plant in partial shade.
Swiss Chard – Handles heat better than spinach.
Arugula & Mustard Greens – Best grown in cooler May climates.
🍓 Fruits
May is a great time to establish perennial fruits and warm-season annuals.
Fruit Options:
Strawberries – Bare roots or young plants will produce this season.
Melons (cantaloupe, watermelon) – Need heat, sun, and space.
Blueberries – Plant in acidic, well-drained soil.
Figs & Citrus Trees – May planting helps establish roots before summer heat.
🌸 Flowers
Flower gardens are in full swing in May. Whether you’re planting for pollinators or aesthetics, choose annuals and perennials wisely.
Annual Flowers to Plant:
Marigolds – Great for pest control and beds.
Zinnias – Bright, hardy, and drought-tolerant.
Sunflowers – Quick-growing and great for kids.
Cosmos – Perfect for pollinators.
Petunias – Ideal for containers and borders.
Perennials to Plant Now:
Lavender – Drought-tolerant and fragrant.
Black-eyed Susan – Summer bloomers that come back every year.
Daylilies – Colorful and low-maintenance.
🌱 Herbs
Herbs thrive in warmer weather and can grow well in both garden beds and containers.
Basil – Loves heat and goes great with tomatoes.
Cilantro – Plant in cooler zones before it bolts.
Parsley – Grows in both sun and partial shade.
Dill – Great for pickling and companion planting.
Mint – Best grown in containers to prevent spreading.
😎 Summer Garden Preparation Tips
As you decide what to plant in May, also start preparing for summer’s challenges:
1. Mulch Everything
Add 2–3 inches of organic mulch around plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
2. Install Drip Irrigation
Drip systems reduce water waste and deliver moisture directly to plant roots—a lifesaver in hot months.
3. Feed Your Soil
Apply compost or a slow-release organic fertilizer to support mid- and late-season growth.
4. Provide Shade
Use shade cloth or companion planting to shield sensitive crops like lettuce from scorching sun.
5. Pest Patrol
Warm weather brings pests. Inspect plants regularly and use neem oil or insecticidal soap for control.
Bonus Tips for May
Start a garden journal to track planting dates and progress.
Plant succession crops (like carrots or lettuce) every 2–3 weeks for a continual harvest.
Support climbing plants like beans and cucumbers with trellises or cages.
Deadhead flowers to encourage continuous blooms.
Compost kitchen scraps to build your own nutrient-rich soil.
Knowing what to plant in May can maximize your garden's productivity and help you stay ahead of summer's challenges. Whether you're growing vegetables, fruits, herbs, or flowers, this month offers the perfect window to sow seeds, transplant seedlings, and boost your soil for the long season ahead.
Start strong, water wisely, and prep for the heat—your garden will thank you with vibrant blooms, lush growth, and a summer harvest worth celebrating. 🌞🌻🍅
Happy gardening!
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Read our Gardener’s Journal for more tips