May in the Garden
May is full of momentum, with longer days, warmer soil and rapid growth throughout the garden. Blossom, fresh foliage and productive vegetable beds make it an exciting month, but frost has not necessarily finished everywhere. The timing of the final frost varies greatly by region and site. Have fleece and cloches ready, and wait for settled conditions before leaving tender crops outdoors permanently.
What to sow & plant in May
Sow salad leaves, beetroot, carrots, peas, French beans and runner beans at intervals for continued picking. Towards the end of the month, once local frost risk has passed, plant out hardened-off tomatoes, courgettes, squashes, sweetcorn, aubergines and peppers. Plant tomatoes deeply, then provide canes or strings for cordon tomatoes. Sow basil under cover or in a warm sheltered spot. Set out leeks and brassicas, firming soil around the roots. Fill gaps with annual flowers and herbs to attract pollinators and make productive spaces more colourful.
Garden jobs for May
Earth up potatoes as they grow, using soil to protect developing tubers from light. Support peas, beans and cordon tomatoes, tying stems gently as they lengthen. Water newly planted crops thoroughly, then mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Net brassicas against pigeons and check young plants frequently for slug damage. Keep greenhouse doors and vents open on warm days, but close them if cold nights are forecast. Feed container crops as growth gathers pace. Mow lawns regularly and trim edges for a tidy finish.
Northern England & Scotland
Cooler northern and Scottish plots often retain frost risk well into May, especially in valleys and inland areas. Keep tomatoes, courgettes, beans and sweetcorn under cover until nights are reliably mild, often planting towards the end of the month or later. Use fleece after planting and choose sheltered positions. Direct sow hardy crops in batches so cold weather does not leave you with gaps.
Southern England
In milder southern England, many tender crops can be planted out earlier in sheltered gardens, although a forecast check remains essential. Warm soil supports quick bean and courgette establishment. Begin regular watering sooner on light soils and in containers, as dry spells can arrive quickly. Sow another row of salads or beetroot every few weeks to maintain a generous, continuous harvest.
Gardening in May: frequently asked questions
What can I sow or plant in May in the UK?
Sow salad leaves, beetroot, carrots, peas, French beans and runner beans at intervals for continued picking.
What garden jobs are there in May?
Earth up potatoes as they grow, using soil to protect developing tubers from light.
What is different in northern Britain in May?
Cooler northern and Scottish plots often retain frost risk well into May, especially in valleys and inland areas.
Timing varies with the season and your local conditions; the RHS or a local garden centre can advise. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.