May is a transitional month in the UK because of rising temperatures and a marked decline in the chance of frost, however it's still advisable to watch for late frosts, particularly in northern and higher elevation regions. By the end of May, spring has arrived in most areas of the UK, making it an excellent time to plant or relocate a variety of flowers, herbs, and vegetables. The following varieties are recommend to be sown in May:
Vegetables:
In the UK, May is one of the most exciting months for vegetable gardening because of the rising temperatures and much lower chance of frost. This is a great time to plant warm-season crops that do well in the rising temperatures as well as cool-season crops that can still withstand lower conditions. The best vegetables to grow in May include:
Cucumbers:
Plant seeds directly or transfer seedlings spaced 30–40 cm apart and 1-2 cm deep. Growing them in a greenhouse is beneficial. Especially during dry seasons, cucumbers require warm, healthy soil and frequent watering.
Courgettes:
Plant seeds 2cm deep in rich, well-draining soil or transplant seedlings. Plants should be spaced 60 cm apart. As the fruits start to form, courgettes require a lot of water, warmth, and full sun.
Summer and Winter Squash:
Plant seeds right after the final date of frost or transplant seedlings. For summer squash, space 45–60 cm apart, while for winter squash, space 90 cm apart.
Herbs:
In the UK, May is an excellent month to cultivate herbs because of the rising temperatures and longer days. The moderate springtime weather is ideal for growing many herbs, whether in containers or directly in the ground.
After the last frost date, which is usually in mid- to late-May in the UK, transplant basil seedlings into the garden or pots. Basil need warm weather and full sun to flourish. It favours soil that drains well and is rich. Don't overwater, but water frequently.
As soon as the soil has warmed up, direct plant seeds in May. The herb grows quickly. Plant seeds 15 cm apart and 1 cm deep. Coriander needs lots of sunlight and well-drained soil. Avoid water logging, but keep the soil damp.
Mint can be planted in May, but it's better to grow it in containers because it can become invasive. Mint thrives in soil that is wet, well-drained, and partially shaded. Make sure it has adequate room to spread and water it frequently (it will remain contained in containers). Although mint requires little maintenance, it should be periodically cut to avoid growing too long.
Flowers:
In the UK, May is the ideal month to plant flower seeds because of the decreased chance of frost and the warmer soil. There are many different types of flowers that may be started indoors and then moved outdoors, whether your goal is to attract pollinators or add colour to your landscape.
Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus):
After the last frost date, in late April or early May, sow immediately outside.
Cornflowers require well-drained soil and grow best in full sunlight. They require to be watered during dry seasons, but they can withstand drought.
(Helianthus annuus) Sunflowers:
When there is no longer a chance of frost, direct-sow sunflower seeds outside in May. Seeds should be sown 2.5 cm deep. Once established, sunflowers require little care and do well in full sunlight. To preserve moisture, cover around the base and water frequently, particularly during dry spells. Large, golden yellow flowers will begin to appear on tall sunflowers in the middle of July.
Echinacea The coneflower:
Directly sow outdoors after the last frost, or start seeds indoors in May.
Plant seeds in well-drained soil 0.5 cm deep. Full sun and well-drained, slightly sandy soil are ideal for echinacea. Once planted, it can withstand drought. By mid-summer, expect big, daisy-like flowers in pink, purple colours.
In the UK, May is a great month for vegetable, herb and flower seeds planting. It's time to plant a variety of crops, from sensitive warm-season kinds to hardy cool-season, as the temperatures are rising and the chance of frost decreasing. A rich and abundant garden can be yours all season long if you use the right planting methods and maintenance practices.