Jobs to do in the Garden in May
As May draws to a close, the threat of frost should be behind us across the UK, and the first hints of summer become increasingly apparent. As spring enters its final stretch, the garden comes alive with tasks awaiting our attention. With the anticipation of spending more time outdoors as temperatures rise, here’s a list of tasks to tackle in your garden this month.
– Ensure greenhouse doors and vents are open on warm, sunny days to promote air circulation and minimize humidity levels.
– Maintain weekly lawn mowing, considering treatment with a high nitrogen fertilizer like Spring & Summer Lawn 12-3-9 for lush green growth. Adjust mower blades to the usual summer cut height.
– Harden off half-hardy plants and outdoor tomatoes, courgettes, and pumpkins toward the month’s end for early next month’s planting. Gradually expose plants outdoors during dry, still days, bringing them indoors at night for seven to ten days before planting.
– Revitalize permanent container plants with balanced liquid feed like Liquid Growmore, feeding them every two to four weeks for vibrant growth.
– Trim hedges carefully (checking for nesting birds) and prune spring flowering shrubs post-bloom.
– Although now warmer and brighter, be wary of late frosts, especially for young plants and new growth. Shield vulnerable plants with frost fleece during frost warnings.
– Persist with weeding borders, beds, and veg patches to curb competition for water, nutrients, and light.
– After spring bulbs finish flowering, deadhead them and let the foliage wither naturally. Apply a high-potassium liquid feed like Magic Grow Tomato Food around spent stems for enhanced growth next spring.
– Monitor plants for pest signs and employ early prevention measures. Utilize various Pest Control Solutions available, including bug spray, pyrethrum, and bird and insect netting.
– “Earth up” potato plants by adding soil around them to shield shoots from frost and prevent potatoes from turning green.
– Transplant seedlings after their first true leaves appear to avoid overcrowding and fungal issues.
– Support indoor tomatoes, cucumbers, and aubergines by tying stems to bamboo canes as they grow.
– Safeguard against injuries by covering bamboo canes with cane caps.
– Plant summer bedding and hanging baskets (in warmer areas) toward month’s end. Consider colorful options like Colour Hanging Baskets filled with Fuchsia, Petunia, Osteospermum, Creeping Jenny, and Verbena for vibrant displays. Alternatively, opt for a classic look with rattan or wire Hanging Baskets adorned with Lobelia, Begonia, Strawberry, and Ivy. Replace tired or rusty wall brackets as needed and keep baskets sheltered until frost risks subside.
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