A Florists Garden What to do in May
May is a truly magical month in the garden – everything seems to burst into life! As the days get longer and warmer, there's so much to enjoy and plenty to do to keep your garden looking its best. Whether you're growing flowers, veggies, or just want your green space to be a peaceful retreat, here are our top tips for getting your garden May-ready.
1. Plant Summer Flowers
Now’s the perfect time to plant summer-flowering annuals like cosmos, zinnias, and nasturtiums. You can also start planting out dahlias and cannas once the risk of frost has passed. Pop in some cosmos or sweet peas near a fence or trellis for a low-effort wow factor.
2. Deadhead Spring Bulbs
As your tulips and daffodils fade, snip off the spent flower heads, leaving the foliage to die back naturally. This helps the bulbs store energy for next year.
3. Tidy Up & Mulch
Clear away any leftover leaves or weeds, and top up beds with a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. It also gives everything a fresh, polished look!
4. Feed Your Plants
Give your plants a boost with an all-purpose plant food – roses, shrubs, and container plants will thank you for the extra nutrients as they get into their growth stride.
5. Support Climbing Plants
Install supports for clematis, sweet peas, and climbing roses. A few minutes now will save a tangle later!
6. Sow Salad & Herbs
If you’re dreaming of fresh garden-to-plate meals, now’s the time to sow lettuce, rocket, basil, parsley, and coriander. These grow beautifully in containers, too.
7. Attract Pollinators
May is a key month for bees and butterflies – fill your garden with pollinator-friendly plants like lavender, alliums, foxgloves, and peonies. You’ll enjoy a buzzing, blooming paradise.
8. Treat Your Lawn
Now that your grass is actively growing, give it a good feed and regular mow (leaving some areas wild if you can to support insects). May is known as No Mow May – and although this can be seen as a great way to support biodiversity, you really want to create a safe haven all year round for bugs and wildlife, rather than lulling them in to a false sense of security and then chopping it all down on the 1st of June!
9: Get Creative with Garden Decor
Add a touch of whimsy with vintage pots, floral wreaths on garden gates, or even a small DIY flower press station for your blooms – perfect for slow, mindful moments in nature.
Gardening in May is all about setting your space up for a glorious summer ahead. Take time to enjoy the scents, colours, and sense of accomplishment – and don’t forget to share your floral triumphs with us on Instagram!
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