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May Seed Sowing: A Guide for Beginners
Introduction
May is an exciting time in the garden, as the weather warms and the soil is ready for planting. This month, you can start seeds for a wide variety of flowers and vegetables that will bloom and bear fruit throughout the summer and fall.
Flowers to Sow in May
- Poppies: These cheerful flowers are easy to grow from seed and come in a wide range of colors. Sow seeds directly in the garden after the last frost.
- Marigolds: Marigolds are popular companion plants that help to repel pests. They are also easy to grow from seed and bloom profusely all summer long.
- Aquilegia: Also known as columbine, aquilegias are beautiful, short-lived perennials that bloom in a variety of colors. Sow seeds indoors or outdoors in early spring.
- Strawflowers: These unique flowers have papery blooms that last indefinitely when dried. They are perfect for arrangements and crafts.
- Other flowers to sow in May: Achillea, anchusa, foxglove, quaking grass, larkspur, sunflowers, nasturtiums, cornflowers, nigella, zinnia, cosmos, nicotiana, brachyscome, annual salvia, annual rudbeckia, calendula
Vegetables to Sow in May
- Cucumber: Greenhouse cucumbers can be sown indoors now, while outdoor varieties can be sown in late May.
- Beetroot: Beetroot is a fast-growing vegetable that is easy to grow from seed. Sow seeds directly in the garden in early May.
- Turnips: Turnips can be sown in early May for a summer harvest of sweet roots and nutritious greens.
- Other vegetables to sow in May: French beans, runner beans, peas, carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, winter cabbage, cauliflower, kale, kohlrabi, sprouting broccoli, Swiss chard, chicory, lettuce, spring onion, radish, spinach, sweetcorn, courgette
- Herbs to sow in May: Rocket, parsley, dill, basil, coriander
Tips for Sowing Seeds in May
- Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
- Sow seeds at the correct depth and spacing.
- Keep the soil moist during germination.
- Thin seedlings to the correct spacing once they have emerged.
- Protect seedlings from frost and pests.
Growing Greener
One of the best ways to reduce your environmental impact while gardening is to avoid using unnecessary plastic. Here are a few tips:
- Reuse pots and trays as much as possible.
- Recycle plastic pots and trays when they are no longer reusable.
- Choose natural twine and fiber pots instead of plastic alternatives.
- Make soil blocks for seeds or use toilet roll inners instead of sowing in plastic modules.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a beautiful and productive garden while also protecting the environment.
