May Planting Guide: What Vegetables and Fruits to Plant for a Summer Bounty

As the days grow longer and the warmth of summer beckons, May presents the perfect opportunity to expand your garden and sow a variety of vegetables and fruits that thrive in the summer heat. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a novice with a green thumb, planting in May sets the stage for a bountiful harvest in the months to come. In this guide, we'll explore some of the top vegetables and fruits to plant in May, ensuring a summer filled with fresh flavors and homegrown goodness.

1. Tomatoes: May is prime time for planting tomatoes in most regions. Choose from a diverse array of heirloom and hybrid varieties, from juicy beefsteaks to sweet cherry tomatoes. Plant them in well-draining soil and provide support structures like cages or stakes to keep the vines upright as they grow.

2. Peppers: Whether you prefer the mild sweetness of bell peppers or the fiery kick of jalapeños, May is the perfect time to plant peppers. Start with transplants from your local nursery or sow seeds directly into warm, fertile soil. Peppers love heat, so be sure to choose a sunny spot for optimal growth.

3. Cucumbers: Cool, crisp cucumbers are a refreshing addition to summer salads and sandwiches. Plant cucumber seeds or transplants in late May once the soil has warmed up. Provide ample space for sprawling vines or consider training them up a trellis to save space in the garden.

4. Zucchini and Squash: These prolific summer squash thrive in warm weather, making May an ideal time to plant them. Choose from varieties like zucchini, yellow squash, and pattypan squash. Plant seeds or transplants in well-amended soil and watch them flourish with regular watering and feeding.

5. Beans: Whether you prefer bush beans or pole beans, May is the perfect time to sow these versatile legumes. Plant seeds directly into the garden once the soil has warmed to around 60°F (15°C). Provide support for pole beans or allow bush beans to sprawl along the ground.

6. Melons: Get ready for sweet, juicy melons by planting seeds or transplants in May. Watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew thrive in warm, sunny conditions. Give them plenty of space to spread out, and provide consistent moisture to ensure sweet, flavorful fruit development.

7. Corn: There's nothing quite like the taste of freshly picked corn on the cob. Plant corn seeds in blocks rather than single rows to ensure proper pollination. Choose a sunny, wind-sheltered spot with well-draining soil and provide ample water throughout the growing season.

8. Herbs: Don't forget about herbs! Plant basil, cilantro, dill, and other favorite herbs in May for a steady supply of fresh flavors all summer long. Herbs thrive in containers or garden beds and are a perfect complement to home-cooked meals.

9. Berries: If you're dreaming of fresh-picked berries, consider planting strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries in May. These perennial fruits require well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight to thrive. Plant them in raised beds or containers for easy maintenance and harvesting.

10. Lettuce and Greens: While some leafy greens prefer cooler temperatures, varieties like heat-tolerant lettuce, Swiss chard, and kale can be planted in May for a summer harvest. Sow seeds directly into the garden or start transplants indoors for a head start.

With a bit of planning and preparation, May offers an abundance of opportunities to expand your garden and cultivate a summer bounty of fresh, homegrown produce. Whether you're filling raised beds, containers, or traditional garden plots, there's something for every gardener to enjoy in the warm days ahead. So roll up your sleeves, grab your gardening tools, and get ready to sow the seeds of a fruitful summer harvest! Happy planting!