May To Do List For The Garden
May is a great month for gardening, as the weather starts to warm up and plants begin to bloom. It’s the perfect time to get out into the garden and start preparing for the summer months ahead. Here is a May checklist for gardening to help you get started:
Above: Directly seeding cool weather crops here at the Rows for the Hungry
Start planting your annuals: May is the perfect time to start planting your hardy annuals such as petunias, marigolds, snapdragons, pansies, and impatiens. All do well in the ground or in containers. Make sure you choose plants that are suited for the amount of sunlight your garden gets. Here in New Jersey our last frost date is May 15th, so it’s generally safe to plant directly outdoors in late May.
Check your soil: This will help you determine what amendments your soil needs for optimal plant growth. Rutgers University offer soil testing kits, check it out here.
Keep weeding! Weeds are much easier to remove early in the season.
Prune spring-flowering shrubs: If you have spring-flowering shrubs like lilacs or forsythia, prune them after they finish blooming. This will help promote healthy growth for next year’s blooms. Prune rose bushes before blooms start to show. Divide summer and fall blooming perennials before they reach 6 inches (15 cm.). Remove faded flowers from spring blooming bulbs, but don’t remove the foliage until it wilts and turns brown.
Plant vegetables: May is the perfect time to plant your vegetable garden. Choose vegetables that thrive in your climate, and make sure to plant them in an area that gets at least six hours of sunlight per day. There is an excellent list of vegetables to choose from here. Consider cool-season crops such as lettuce, spinach, kale, and peas. These vegetables thrive in cooler temperatures and can withstand a light frost. Sow the seeds directly into the prepared soil according to the instructions on the seed packet. Keep the soil moist and watch for the seeds to sprout. Consider high tunnels for these spring crops to keep off pests and provide added protection from frost.
Above: Spinach that was planted in May grows well!
6. Mulch your garden beds: Mulching helps to conserve moisture in your soil and prevent weed growth. Apply a layer of mulch to your garden beds to help your plants stay healthy and strong. 2-3 inches of mulch is recommended.
7. Fertilize your plants: Use a slow-release fertilizer to give your plants the nutrients they need to thrive. Follow the instructions on the packaging for the best results.
8. Water regularly: As the weather gets warmer, it’s important to make sure your plants are getting enough water. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells. It is best to water early in the morning while it is still cool and at the base of the plant.
9. Keep an eye out for pests: Check your plants regularly for signs of pests like aphids or spider mites. If you notice any issues, take action immediately to prevent further damage. Often, physically removing the bugs (hands, water, …) at first arrival is effective.
10. Deadhead spent flowers: Removing spent flowers from your plants can help promote new growth and keep your garden looking tidy.
11. Consider adding some new perennials: May is a great time to add some new perennials to your garden. Choose plants that are suited for your climate and that will add color and interest to your garden.
Above: Here at the Rows For The Hungry, we planted tomatoes seedlings in the garden next to stakes which are ready for the “Florida Weave” trellis.
