Advertorial: May in the Garden: A Month of Momentum and Magic

May is when the garden seems to surge forward with confidence. Borders swell, lawns thicken, and there is the unmistakable mix of warmth, moisture, and possibility. May is a month that rewards attention and effort, but also suggests you should pause and simply enjoy the show.

One of the defining features of this magical month is growth. Rapid, almost urgent growth. Plants that have seemed static in April will suddenly stretch upwards and outwards, filling gaps and softening edges. Perennials such as geraniums, delphiniums, and lupins begin to form strong clumps, while climbers such as clematis and honeysuckle rush to cover fences and trellises. The gardener’s task is now keeping up with this burst of energy… Tie-in climbers, and stake taller plants regularly to help prevent wind damage. And, manage your displays to look intentional rather than unruly!

Now is the time when colour just bursts into the garden. Some tulips may still be lingering in cooler spots, but they can be joined, by alliums, irises, and the early flush of roses. With the richer, more varied tones on display, it is a good to take note of colour combinations that work well, and those that clash, while everything is fresh in your mind.

The warmth and occasional rain in May means that lawns are also becoming more demanding. The grass will grow vigorously and may need mowing once a week. Keeping the mower blades sharp, and avoiding cutting too short, will maintain a healthy, resilient lawn. Mid-to-late May is also the perfect time to apply a spring lawn feed to further encourage lush, green, healthy growth. However, the edges can quickly blur at this time of year, so invest in a good edging tool to give a crisp trim. It will make a surprising difference to the overall appearance of the garden.

Vegetable patches will now herald a month of action as the soil has warmed sufficiently to sow a wide range of crops directly outdoors. Carrots, beetroot, lettuce, and beans can all go in now, while tender plants such as courgettes, tomatoes, and squash can be planted out towards the end of the month, depending on the risk of late frosts.

Of course, with the strong growth explosion, comes the maintenance of weeds that thrive under the same conditions as cultivated plants. Staying on top of them now will save you hours later. Try to spend a little time hoeing on dry days; it can be remarkably effective!

Importantly, remember to feed your garden plants in May to help replenish the nutrients in the soil that may have been depleted or washed away by spring rains. Plants now need maximum nutrients to support their rapid growth, establish strong roots, and prepare for summer flowering and fruiting. Use a rose feed in early to mid-May to support and encourage the first big blooms; and a granular slow release fertilizer will assist with the overall growth of perennials and shrubs.

Watering becomes more important in May, and especially for your newly planted specimens and containers. While the month still brings some rain, dry spells are not uncommon. Early morning or evening watering is best as it allows the plants to absorb moisture, before the heat of the day causes it to evaporate. Planted containers can dry out especially quickly, so check on them daily.

As you take more time in the garden you will notice the increasingly active wildlife, as it brings another exciting layer of life to the garden. Enjoy watching the bees moving busily from flower to flower, birds gather nesting materials, and the first broods of fledglings starting to test their wings. Encouraging this activity by planting pollinator-friendly flowers, or providing fresh water can enhance the health of the garden and support its sense of vitality too.

But, for all the many tasks this month brings, remember to take time to slow down and appreciate your own green oasis. With the longer lighter evenings, sit out after the day’s work and enjoy watching the subtle changes from one day to the next. Experience your garden not just as a project, but as a living, evolving space.

For more ideas, visit www.capitalgardens.co.uk

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