What to Plant in May in the UK

May is one of the most active months in the UK vegetable garden. Warmer temperatures and longer days mean many vegetables can now be planted outdoors safely.

In most parts of the UK, the risk of frost begins to pass during May, which allows tender vegetables to be planted outside.

It’s a busy but rewarding time in the gardening year.

Vegetables to sow outdoors in May

Many vegetables grow well when planted directly into the soil in May.

These include:

  • carrots

  • beetroot

  • lettuce

  • radishes

  • spring onions

  • peas

  • runner beans

  • French beans

The warmer soil helps seeds germinate more quickly than earlier in spring.

Planting tender vegetables outdoors

After the risk of frost has passed, tender vegetables can be planted outside.

These include:

  • tomatoes

  • courgettes

  • cucumbers

  • squash

  • sweetcorn

Choose a sunny, sheltered position and water plants well after planting.

If nights are still cold, temporary protection can help young plants settle in.

Container planting in May

May is a great time to fill containers with vegetables.

Good container crops include:

  • tomatoes

  • lettuce

  • herbs

  • potatoes in grow bags

  • carrots in deep pots

Warmer weather helps container plants establish quickly.

Supporting climbing plants

Some vegetables planted in May need support as they grow.

You can set up:

  • canes for runner beans

  • trellises

  • simple frames

Adding supports early prevents damage later.

Keeping up with watering

As temperatures rise, vegetables may need more frequent watering.

Check soil regularly and keep it:

  • moist

  • not waterlogged

Containers may need watering daily during warm periods.

A key month in the growing season

May often feels like the true start of the vegetable gardening season in the UK.

With many crops now planted, the garden begins to fill with new growth.

Small, regular gardening tasks throughout the month help keep everything healthy.

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