May gardening: what to plant and when - An overview of the most important planting and care tasks
May is one of the most exciting and important months for gardening. The spring frosts are over and the ground has warmed up, making it the ideal time for beginners and advanced gardeners alike to get started with planting vegetables, flowers and tending the garden. In this detailed, expert yet accessible article, we guide you through May gardening, what to plant and when, and how to care for your plants to keep your garden beautiful and productive all summer long.
Why is May important in the garden?
By May, nature is in full swing, with soil temperatures reaching an ideal level of around 15°C, allowing heat-sensitive plants to be planted safely. This is one of the most important times in the life of the nursery and ornamental garden, when, with proper planting and care, we can enjoy the fruits and beauty of our gardens all summer long.
Overview of May garden tasks
1. Soil preparation
Successful planting depends on well-prepared soil. In May it is important to loosen, weed and replenish the soil.
Digging and hoeing: loosen the soil so that the roots can spread easily.
Compost or organic fertiliser: Apply plenty to ensure that plants get enough nutrients.
Mulching: spread mulch, such as wood chips or straw, to conserve soil moisture and reduce weeds.
2. What to plant in May?
Vegetables
May is an ideal time for sowing and planting many vegetables, especially those that need warmth.
Tomatoes, peppers, aubergines: these plants can be planted outdoors from mid-May. It is important to get the seedlings acclimatised to the outdoor conditions beforehand and to choose a shady, sheltered spot.
Cucumber, courgette, pumpkin: Plant in late May or early June in nutrient-rich, well-drained soil.
Green beans: can be sown from late April to mid-May in a sunny spot.
Carrots, radishes, parsley: These root vegetables can be sown continuously in May, so you'll have fresh crops all summer long.
Lettuce, spinach, arugula: Fast-growing, cooler weather tolerant plants that can be sown in May.
Herbs
Dill, parsley, basil, rosemary: These herbs can be planted or sown in May for fresh use throughout the summer.
Flowers
Annual flowers: petunias, geraniums, begonias - planted in May, they bloom all summer.
Perennials: lavender, sunflowers, May lilac - transplanting and planting them is also ideal at this time.
3. Training and planting of seedlings
It is important to gradually acclimatise seedlings grown in early May to the conditions outside. Put them outdoors during the day and in a sheltered place at night to avoid cold stress.
Planting time: from mid-May, when soil and air temperatures are stable and warm.
Planting depth: plant the seedlings so that the root neck is above the soil surface, except for tomatoes, which can be planted deeper for stronger root development.
Support system: place stakes or support systems next to tall plants (e.g. tomatoes, peppers).
4. Irrigation and nutrient replenishment
Regular watering: in May, plants start to grow rapidly, so it is particularly important to ensure a good water supply. Water in the morning or evening to minimise evaporation.
Nutrient supplementation: every two weeks, give liquid nutrient solution, especially to seedlings and vegetables that produce abundant crops.
5. Weeding and mulching
Weeds grow rapidly in May, so regular weeding is necessary.
Mulching can reduce weeds, preserve soil moisture and improve soil structure.
6. Pest and disease control
In May the first pests appear, such as aphids, thrips and mites.
Use biological control methods (e.g. planting ladybirds) or, if necessary, environmentally friendly pesticides.
Also watch out for fungal diseases, especially in wet periods.
7. Pruning and thinning
In May, you can do shaping pruning of fruit trees and ornamental shrubs.
Thin out overly dense stands of plants to allow air to circulate through the plants, reducing the chance of disease.
8. Garden decoration and other tasks
In May, it's time to plant your balcony boxes and terraces with flowers to keep them colourful all summer long.
It is also important to look after the lawn: regular mowing, aeration and fertilisation are necessary.
Common mistakes in May and how to avoid them
Planting too early: if there is still a risk of frost, seedlings may be damaged.
Improper watering: overwatering leads to root rot and underwatering leads to stress.
Neglect of weeds: they compete with plants for nutrients and water.
Inadequate soil preparation: compact, nutrient-poor soil slows down plant growth.
Summary
May is one of the most important months for gardening, when with the right planting, soil preparation, watering and protection you can have a beautiful and productive garden all summer long. Plant tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, green beans, lettuce and other vegetables, take regular care of the plants, control pests and don't forget to weed. This will ensure successful gardening and a bountiful harvest.
Don't have the time or inclination for gardening? Leave it to us!
The Green Garden Budapest team can help you keep your garden looking its best in May with professional garden care, planting and seasonal garden maintenance - without spending hours digging, planting or weeding. Whether it's a vegetable garden, ornamental garden or balcony garden, we'll make sure your garden is not only beautiful, but healthy and productive all summer long.