May Gardens
May is often when gardens begin to reveal the direction they'll take for the rest of the year. Spring bulbs are still providing colour, herbaceous perennials are gathering momentum and shrubs are putting on fresh growth, making it much easier to appreciate how the different layers of planting are beginning to work together.
With so much happening at once, May is also one of the busiest months in the gardening calendar so there are plenty of May gardening jobs to be thinking about. A little timely attention now – from supporting emerging growth to keeping weeds in check – will help your garden continue to develop well into summer.
Updated for May 2026
Late frosts can still catch us out
Although May usually feels like the start of summer, the occasional late frost can still catch gardeners by surprise. Tender perennials and soft new growth are particularly vulnerable, so it's worth keeping an eye on the forecast before packing away the fleece completely.
Fresh hosta shoots are especially susceptible to frost damage, while newly emerging foliage on other herbaceous perennials may also benefit from a little temporary protection on colder nights.
Tulips and spring bulbs
Tulips are usually at their best during May, bringing colour and structure to borders and containers.
Tulips, and other bulbs, often provide an important bridge between spring and early summer planting. Allowing the foliage to die back naturally helps replenish the bulbs, ensuring strong displays in future years and supporting long-term seasonal interest.
Lawns begin growing quickly
Grass growth usually accelerates during May, meaning many lawns benefit from more frequent mowing. Avoid cutting too short, particularly during dry spells, as slightly longer grass generally stays healthier and provides an attractive backdrop to surrounding planting.
If bulbs are naturalised in the lawn, avoid mowing until the foliage has yellowed.
Containers and pots
As spring planting begins to fade, refresh containers with carefully chosen perennials, herbs or compact shrubs that provide interest over a much longer season. Regular watering becomes increasingly important at this time of year, particularly during warm or windy weather when compost can dry out surprisingly quickly.
May garden jobs
Planting and borders
- Protect tender plants if frost is forecast.
- Harden off hanging baskets and bedding plants before planting outside.
- Stake tall or floppy perennials before they need it.
- Deadhead flowers regularly.
- Lift tulip bulbs once foliage has died back (if you routinely lift them).
- Keep weeds under control.
Fruit and vegetables
- Sow vegetables every couple of weeks for continuous crops.
- Thin seedlings.
- Place straw beneath strawberries.
- Protect carrots from carrot fly.
- Keep crops well watered during dry spells.
Lawn care
- Mow regularly on a higher setting.
- Scarify areas affected by moss if conditions are suitable.
- Delay mowing over naturalised bulbs until foliage has died back.
Greenhouse
- Increase ventilation during warm days.
- Check regularly for aphids, whitefly and other pests.
- Water consistently as temperatures rise.
Looking Ahead
The work you put into your garden during May pays dividends throughout summer. By keeping on top of maintenance now, supporting vigorous new growth and dealing with weeds early, you'll spend less time firefighting later and more time enjoying your garden as it reaches its peak.