Is it too late to start a garden in May?
Written by
Paul Reynolds
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.May planting is one of the best opportunities to plant warm-season crops like bush beans and zucchini. After a late start, I assisted a client with picking cucumbers by July, demonstrating that planting dates weren't as important as relative timing. Your crops should be focused on crops that grow well and thrive in warm weather. Cool-weather crops like spinach are quick to bolt, but the benefit of transplants is that they dwarf the spring growth season.
Warm-Season Stars
- Bush beans: 50-60 days to harvest
- Zucchini: Produces within 45 days
- Cucumbers: Use trellises for space efficiency
Avoid These Crops
- Spinach: Bolts above 75°F (24°C)
- Peas: Struggles in summer heat
- Kale: Attracts aphids in warm weather
Starter Plant Advantage
- Tomato transplants yield 3 weeks faster
- Pepper starts resist early pest damage
- Herbs like basil establish quicker
Soil temperature holds more significance than air temperature. For testing, I use a meat thermometer. I planted my squash last week when the soil temperature reached 60°F or 15.5°C. Regarding moisture, I apply straw mulch to the beds. I water 3 times a week deeply and try to water somewhat within the root zone of the seedlings. I find that shallow watering just stresses the plant and I have struggled with drought stress.
Soil Readiness
- Test temps at 6-inch depth
- Mix in compost for drainage
- Avoid tilling wet soil
Watering Depth
- Soak 8-12 inches for tomatoes
- Use drip irrigation at dawn
- Check moisture with a screwdriver
Consistency leads to success. A client's garden planted in May surpassed her neighbor's garden, planted in April because she used starter plants and monitored for pests. Start small in a 4x4 foot section for beans and zucchini. Next year, utilize what you learned this season to adjust. Even in an unexpected late spring, things can grow because of intention.
Read the full article: Spring Garden Preparation: 10 Expert Tasks for Success
