What Are May Garden Tasks?
How Does Your Garden Grow?
May is when the garden really takes off. Get ready to roll up your sleeves, get plants growing, and enjoy some of the best gardening weather of the year.
Vast Varieties of Veggies
Finish getting warm-season veggies in the ground. Now is the perfect time to plant okra, black-eyed peas, squash and melons.
Houseplant Check-In
As light and heat increase, plants may need a bit more water. Check soil moisture regularly with your finger or a soil probe, and water when needed rather than sticking to a set schedule.
Plant For The Heat
Add warm‑weather favorites like trailing lantana, million bells, verbena and more—color options that will take the Texas heat. Swing by the nursery to check out these beauties and more.
Lawn Care
Turn your attention to lawn care. Mow a little higher to protect roots, keep blades sharp, and spot‑treat weeds before they set seed.
Invite Birds In
Clean and refill bird feeders, especially hummingbird feeders, to attract birds that help with pollination and keep pesky insects like aphids in check while adding life and movement to your garden.
Water Smarter
Water smarter, not more. As temperatures rise, switch to deeper, less frequent watering and give your irrigation system a quick tune‑up by checking for leaks, clogged emitters, and proper coverage.
Other Timely Tasks for May
- Plant hanging baskets before summer heat arrives. Hanging baskets can add color in both sunny and shady areas, bring a bold pop to the garden, and place flowers right where pollinators like butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees can easily find them.
- Plant herbs now. Warm soil helps herbs establish quickly, giving you fresh flavor for cooking, fragrant foliage for the garden, and blooms that attract beneficial pollinators all season long.
- Refresh your color beds and pots. It’s the perfect time to plant summer annuals like marigolds, petunias, and zinnia—to add instant color and invite pollinators all season long.
- Houseplant pest patrol. As temperatures warm, keep an eye out for spider mites, aphids, and fungus gnats. If you spot trouble, check in with our houseplant gurus.
- Mulch for moisture. Apply 2”–3” of organic mulch or compost to lock in moisture and protect healthy soil life. Keep mulch a few inches away from tree trunks and plant crowns to avoid rot.
