What to Grow in May: A Gardener’s Guide to Sowing, Transplanting, and Spring Success

May is one of the most exciting months for gardeners in the UK. With warmer temperatures, longer days, and fewer frosts, it's a perfect time to get growing. Whether you're sowing seeds, transplanting young plants, or simply sprucing up your outdoor space, gardening in May is all about preparing for a productive summer ahead.

From juicy strawberries to vibrant wildflowers, here’s your go-to guide for what to grow—and how Hortiwool Garden Pads can help you get the best from your plants.

What to Sow or Transplant in May

May is ideal for sowing a wide variety of crops directly into well-prepared soil:

• Vegetables: Beetroot, carrots, parsnips, spring onions, turnips, radishes, lettuce, spinach, and Swiss chard.

• Climbing beans: French beans and runner beans can now be sown directly once the risk of frost has passed.

• Sweetcorn: Sow in blocks for good pollination.

• Courgettes, pumpkins & squashes: These can go in after mid-May in warmer areas, or under cloches elsewhere.

Flowers:

• Hardy annuals like calendula, cornflowers, and poppies can be sown directly outdoors.

• Wildflower mixes are great for attracting pollinators - perfect to pair with Hortiwool Garden Pads to help the soil retain moisture and suppress weeds around seedlings.

Sow Indoors:

Still a bit chilly? No problem. You can start the following indoors for transplanting later in the month.

• Tender vegetables: Tomatoes, aubergines, cucumbers, and chillies.

• Basil and coriander: Ideal for windowsills or greenhouse trays.

• Sunflowers and nasturtiums: Get them going inside and transplant them outdoors for a bright summer display.

Using Hortiwool Garden Pads underneath trays or pots helps insulate seedlings and provides a natural buffer that supports healthy root development - making using wool in the garden a simple yet sustainable choice.

Transplanting Seedlings Outdoors

Now is a good time to harden off and transplant earlier-sown seedlings, such as brassicas (cabbage, kale, broccoli) and leeks. When transplanting, place a small piece of Hortiwool Garden Pad under the plant to improve water retention and reduce competition from weeds - especially helpful during dry spells.

Other Gardening Jobs to Tackle in May

To create the perfect spring garden, there are a few key tasks that shouldn’t be overlooked:

• Mulch and feed: Use compost or well-rotted manure around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Or, use Hortiwool Garden Pads as a biodegradable, wool-based mulch alternative.

• Weed regularly: Young weeds grow fast in May. Keep on top of them to reduce competition for nutrients.

• Water wisely: Water in the morning or evening and focus on roots rather than leaves. Wool’s natural water-holding ability makes it a great tool for reducing watering frequency.

• Support climbing plants: Install canes or trellises for peas, beans, and sweet peas.

• Lawn care: Start mowing regularly, but leave some wild patches if you’re encouraging pollinators.

Why Use Hortiwool Garden Pads?

At this busy time of year, giving your plants the best start is essential. Hortiwool Garden Pads are made from natural British wool, offering a sustainable way to nurture your garden. Here’s why they’re a must for gardening:

• Retain moisture around seedlings and transplants

• Suppress weeds naturally without chemicals

• Insulate soil during cold snaps or sudden heat

• Completely biodegradable and safe for wildlife

Whether you're planting in raised beds, containers, or open ground, using wool in the garden can give your plants the edge they need.

Ready to grow? May is bursting with possibilities. Grab your trowel, unroll your Hortiwool Garden Pads, and let’s make this spring one to remember - lush, green, and buzzing with life.