{"id":954,"date":"2025-04-27T18:50:03","date_gmt":"2025-04-27T17:50:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gardenadvice.co.uk\/marketa\/?p=954"},"modified":"2025-04-27T18:57:33","modified_gmt":"2025-04-27T17:57:33","slug":"what-to-sow-and-grow-in-may-a-complete-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gardenadvice.co.uk\/marketa\/what-to-sow-and-grow-in-may-a-complete-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"What to Sow and Grow in May: A Complete Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"434\" src=\"https:\/\/gardenadvice.co.uk\/marketa\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/153\/2025\/04\/salad-crops2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-956\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gardenadvice.co.uk\/marketa\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/153\/2025\/04\/salad-crops2.jpg 650w, https:\/\/gardenadvice.co.uk\/marketa\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/153\/2025\/04\/salad-crops2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/gardenadvice.co.uk\/marketa\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/153\/2025\/04\/salad-crops2-520x347.jpg 520w, https:\/\/gardenadvice.co.uk\/marketa\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/153\/2025\/04\/salad-crops2-320x214.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">May is a fantastic month for gardeners, with warmer soil and longer days providing perfect conditions to sow seeds and plant young plants. Below, we\u2019ve put together a detailed guide on what you can sow and grow right now. <strong>Seeds are available from<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wholesale.molesseeds.co.uk\/\"><strong>molesseeds.co.uk<\/strong><\/a> and <strong>young plants can be purchased from<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gardenerskitchen.co.uk\"><strong> gardenerskitchen.co.uk<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each entry includes handy gardening tips and notes on pests and diseases to watch out for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Vegetables to Sow from Seed in May:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Carrots<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Sow thinly in well-drained soil. Thin seedlings early to avoid overcrowding.<br><em>Pests:<\/em> Watch for carrot fly \u2014 use fine mesh or fleece.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chilies<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Sow indoors in warmth. They love heat and light!<br><em>Pests:<\/em> Aphids can be a problem; check leaves regularly.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Courgettes<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Sow directly outdoors after the last frost or start inside for earlier crops.<br><em>Diseases:<\/em> Powdery mildew is common in dry weather \u2014 water at the base, not the leaves.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cucumbers<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Grow in a greenhouse or sheltered spot. Feed regularly once fruiting starts.<br><em>Pests:<\/em> Keep an eye out for red spider mites.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fennel<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Sow directly and thin carefully. Prefers cool, moist conditions.<br><em>Pests:<\/em> Slugs and snails can damage young plants.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Garlic<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> You can still sow cloves in May for an autumn harvest in some areas.<br><em>Diseases:<\/em> Watch for rust on leaves.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Leeks<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Sow thinly and transplant when pencil-thick.<br><em>Pests:<\/em> Leek moth larvae can cause problems \u2014 use fleece.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Melons<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Sow under cover. They thrive in warmth and humidity.<br><em>Diseases:<\/em> Powdery mildew can affect growth \u2014 ensure good ventilation.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Onions<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Sow from seed or sets. Keep weeds down to prevent competition.<br><em>Pests:<\/em> Onion fly and downy mildew can be issues.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pak Choi<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Best sown in cooler weather to prevent bolting.<br><em>Pests:<\/em> Flea beetles love Pak Choi \u2014 protect seedlings with fleece.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Parsnips<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Sow fresh seed directly where they are to grow. Germination can be slow.<br><em>Diseases:<\/em> Canker can affect roots; rotate crops annually.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Peas<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Sow successively for continuous harvests. Support with pea sticks or netting.<br><em>Pests:<\/em> Birds love young shoots \u2014 net them early.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Peppers<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Sow under cover; they thrive with lots of sun and warmth.<br><em>Pests:<\/em> Aphids and spider mites can appear \u2014 inspect often.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Potatoes<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> May is good for second early and main crop varieties.<br><em>Diseases:<\/em> Blight is a risk in wet weather \u2014 choose resistant varieties if possible.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Spring Onions<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Sow thinly every few weeks for a continuous crop.<br><em>Pests:<\/em> Slugs and onion fly can attack young seedlings.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Aubergines<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Sow under cover in warmth. Stake plants as they grow.<br><em>Pests:<\/em> Aphids and red spider mites are common in greenhouses.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Capsicum Peppers<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Like chilies, they prefer warm conditions and regular feeding.<br><em>Pests:<\/em> Look out for aphid infestations.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gherkins<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Sow indoors and plant out after frost; train up supports.<br><em>Pests:<\/em> Watch for cucumber beetles and mildew.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sweet Potatoes<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Plant slips (young plants) in ridges in a sunny, sheltered spot.<br><em>Pests:<\/em> Keep an eye out for wireworms in the soil.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tomatoes<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Sow indoors; harden off before planting outside.<br><em>Diseases:<\/em> Blight is a risk \u2014 water the soil, not the leaves.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Broccoli<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Sow for an autumn harvest. Protect seedlings from pests.<br><em>Pests:<\/em> Cabbage white butterfly larvae can devastate crops.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chard<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Sow little and often for a continuous supply.<br><em>Pests:<\/em> Leaf miners can burrow into the leaves.<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Vegetables to Grow from Young Plants in May:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Beetroot<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Transplant carefully to avoid disturbing roots.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Broad Beans<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Support plants and pinch out tops to deter blackfly.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Brussels Sprouts<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Firm in well to avoid wind rock; they need a long growing season.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cabbage<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Plant deeply and firm in well. Net against pigeons.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Celery<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Keep soil moist for crisp stems; water regularly.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Celeriac<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Needs consistent watering and regular feeding.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kale<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Very hardy. Harvest young leaves for a tender crop.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lettuce<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Plant in part-shade to avoid bolting in hot weather.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Spinach<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Needs plenty of water; sow bolt-resistant varieties if hot weather is expected.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sweetcorn<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Plant in blocks for good pollination.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Horseradish<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Plant in a pot to contain its vigorous roots.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Asparagus<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Plant crowns now for future harvests; it takes patience but is worth it!<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Herbs to Grow from Seed in May:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Basil<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Loves warmth; perfect for windowsills or greenhouses.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Angelica<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> A large plant \u2014 allow plenty of space.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Borage<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Self-seeds easily; great for bees.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chives<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Grow in clumps and divide every few years.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Coriander<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Best sown direct; bolt-resistant varieties available.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dill<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Needs shelter from strong winds; dislikes being transplanted.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Echinacea<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Needs good drainage and full sun.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Garlic Chives<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Similar care to ordinary chives; very ornamental.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lavender<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Sow in sandy, free-draining soil.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Marjoram<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Perfect for pots and containers; loves sun.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mint (Moroccan)<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Grow in pots to contain its spread.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Oregano<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Needs full sun and well-drained soil.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Parsley<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Takes time to germinate; soak seeds overnight before sowing.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rosemary<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Loves a sunny, sheltered position with well-draining soil.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sage<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong> <em>Tip:<\/em> Prune after flowering to keep plants bushy.<br><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Seeds for Continuous Crops from May Onwards:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To keep your garden productive through the summer, continue sowing the following every few weeks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Lettuce<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Spinach<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Spring Onions<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Peas<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chard<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sowing little and often ensures a constant supply of fresh produce!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you&#8217;re sowing from seed or planting young plants, May offers endless opportunities to grow something delicious. For seeds, head over to<a href=\"https:\/\/www.molesseeds.co.uk\"> molesseeds.co.uk<\/a>, and for strong, healthy young plants, visit<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gardenerskitchen.co.uk\"> gardenerskitchen.co.uk<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Happy gardening!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>May is a fantastic month for gardeners, with warmer soil and longer days providing perfect conditions to sow seeds and plant young plants. Below, we\u2019ve put together a detailed guide on what you can&#46;&#46;&#46;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":956,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"ngg_post_thumbnail":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-954","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-gardening-notes"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardenadvice.co.uk\/marketa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/954","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardenadvice.co.uk\/marketa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardenadvice.co.uk\/marketa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenadvice.co.uk\/marketa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenadvice.co.uk\/marketa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=954"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/gardenadvice.co.uk\/marketa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/954\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenadvice.co.uk\/marketa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/956"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gardenadvice.co.uk\/marketa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=954"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenadvice.co.uk\/marketa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=954"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gardenadvice.co.uk\/marketa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=954"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}