In May, the frosty mornings are finally over and the ground is warming up, making it ideal for planting vegetable seedlings. Find out which vegetables to plant in May, how to prepare the soil and planting techniques for a successful kitchen garden.

Why is May ideal for planting kitchen gardens?

• Frost-free period: From mid-May, there will be no more night frosts in Budapest and Pest County.
• Adequate soil temperature: Soil above 15 °C promotes germination and rooting.
• Long growing season: Plants will be abundant throughout the summer.
• Favourable weather: Spring rains and increasing sunshine provide optimal conditions.

What vegetables should we plant in May?

Frost-sensitive plants to be planted

• Tomatoes (60-80 cm row spacing, with support system)
• Peppers (50-60 cm row spacing, in sunny place)
• Cucumber (100-120 cm row spacing, with support system)
• Courgettes (100-120 cm row spacing)
• Aubergines (only from May, warm and sun-loving)
• Basil (good companion plant, repels pests)

Vegetables to sow in May

• Carrots
• Retek
• Green beans
• Salad vegetables (iceberg lettuce, arugula)
• Spinach
• Coriander, dill

How to plant the seedlings?

Soil preparation

• Loosen up the soil with a spade or tiller.
• Work in compost or mature manure.
• If necessary, carry out a soil test.

Planting technique

• Make a pit, fill it with water, let it soak in.
• Sprinkle natural manure (e.g. granulated chicken or sheep manure) on the bottom.
• Position the seedling so that the root does not bend.
• Compact the soil, then water.

Recommended planting distances

Useful tips for the kitchen garden

Kitchen garden plant splices

• Tomatoes + basil: natural protection against pests
• Carrot + onion: provide mutual protection
• Cabbage + celery: celery helps the growth of brassica

Irrigation and care

• Regular but not excessive watering
• Preserving soil moisture by mulching (straw, grass clippings)
• Natural pest control (e.g. spraying with nettle juice)
• Installing an automatic irrigation system can save time and energy

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

• Planting too early: frost danger can damage seedlings
• Lack of education: a few days of "training" before planting
• Nutrient-poor or compacted soil: without preparation and fertilisation, growth will be slow

Expert help in and around Budapest

If you're not sure, ask the experts for help!
Green Garden Budapest also undertakes planting of seedlings, installation of irrigation systems, soil improvement, fertilization and complete kitchen gardens.