With warmer temperatures and longer days, May is a crucial month for gardeners, as plants spring back to life and the outdoor space becomes a hub for relaxation and entertainment. Experts at Cherry Lane Garden Centres have highlighted several key jobs to tackle this month to guarantee a colourful display throughout summer.
Hanging baskets should be planted now with summer favourites such as petunias, fuchsias and geraniums. After planting, keep them in a sheltered spot for a short period to help them establish before moving them to a sunny location. Warmer soil temperatures also make May an ideal time to sow French beans and climbing beans directly into the ground, choosing a sunny, sheltered spot with well-prepared soil.
Bedding plants like begonias, marigolds and petunias can be planted out as the risk of frost diminishes. These will quickly add vibrant colour to borders, pots and containers. However, as temperatures rise, pests such as aphids and slugs become more active, so regular inspection and prompt action are essential to keep plants healthy.
Houseplants growing more actively in May should be repotted if they have outgrown their containers, using fresh compost and a gentle feed to support summer growth. For those with ponds, adding aquatic plants helps create a balanced ecosystem, providing shelter for wildlife and improving water quality.
Dahlia and canna tubers can be planted out in a sunny, well-drained spot, rewarding gardeners with bold blooms all summer. Even shady areas can be filled with colour using ferns and hostas, which thrive in low-light conditions. Completing these tasks now will ensure a vibrant and thriving garden throughout the warmer months.
