Seeds to Sow in May
May is one of the most generous months for sowing. The soil is warming, the light is strong, and for the first time in the year, you can sow freely outdoors without too much worry.
It’s a lovely moment to lean into, spending time scattering seeds, filling gaps, and starting things that will carry you right through summer. A little and often approach works best, letting the garden unfold steadily rather than all at once.
Sowing
Vegetables to Direct Sow Outdoors: No protection needed in most areas once conditions are mild:
Carrots
Beetroot
Lettuce & mixed salad leaves
Spinach
Radish
Spring onions
Turnips
Swiss chard
Peas
French beans & runner beans
Sweetcorn (late May)
Courgettes and squash (late May, in warmer soil)
Flowers to Sow Outdoors:
Sunflowers
Calendula
Cosmos
Nigella
Cornflowers
Marigolds
Nasturtiums
Sow Indoors or Under Cover:
Cucumbers
Courgettes and squash
Pumpkins
Sweetcorn
Basil and other tender herbs
Planting Out AKA The Big Move
Once frost risk has passed and plants are hardened off you can get these outside:
Tomatoes
Peppers & chillies
Courgettes, pumpkins & squash
Sweetcorn
Beans (runner & French)
Cucumbers
Basil and tender herbs
Pro Tip: Even in May, keep some fleece handy. Those late cold nights can still surprise you.
A Gentle May Reminder
Things grow fast now! Check in little and often rather than trying to do everything at once.
Don’t get carried away and plant everything on the first warm day. Timing still matters.
Enjoy yourself! May is one of the most rewarding months to be outside.
Not everything needs to go in at once. Sow in small batches and let the season stretch out ahead of you. With warmth, light and a bit of patience, these small beginnings will soon turn into something magical!
