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Writer's pictureKerri Cuthbert

Essential Tips for Gardening in May

Updated: Jun 21


Planting Guide May

1. Container Gardening

Embrace the versatility of container gardening to bring a burst of colour and life to your outdoor space this May. Container gardening is not only a great way to maximise limited garden space but also allows for easy customisation and flexibility. By planting a variety of trees and vibrant annuals in pots, you can create stunning displays that brighten up any patio or balcony. May is the perfect time to start container gardening as the warmer weather provides optimal growing conditions for both trees and annuals. Compact trees such as Flowering cherries or Japanese maples can add height and structure, while colourful annuals like petunias, marigolds, and geraniums provide a pop of colour. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, container gardening offers endless possibilities for creating a beautiful and thriving outdoor oasis right at home.


2. Herb Haven

Plant your garden with a variety of aromatic herbs such as basil, coriander, dill, parsley, and rosemary. These herbs thrive in the warmth of the season and are perfect additions to any culinary garden. Begin by selecting a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil for optimal growth. When planting, ensure to space the herbs appropriately to allow for proper airflow and avoid overcrowding. Consider planting in raised beds or containers if space is limited. After planting, water the herbs thoroughly and regularly, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. With proper care and attention, your herb haven will flourish, providing you with an abundant supply of fresh and flavourful herbs for all your culinary creations.


3. Vertical Gardening

Make the most of your garden space by incorporating vertical gardening techniques. By adding trellises, arbours, or hanging baskets, you can create stunning vertical gardens that not only maximise space but also add visual interest to your outdoor area. Plant climbing vegetables such as beans and cucumbers, which will happily grow upwards, saving valuable ground space while still providing a bountiful harvest. Additionally, consider adding flowering vines like morning glories and clematis to add a splash of colour and attract pollinators to your garden. With vertical gardening, you can transform even the smallest garden into a lush and productive oasis.

Vertically growing plants

4. Water Savings

Contribute to water conservation efforts by harnessing the power of rainwater in your garden. Harvest rainwater using barrels or natural systems to reduce reliance on municipal water supplies and conserve this precious resource. This eco-friendly practice not only nourishes your garden but also helps to mitigate the impact of drought and water scarcity. By capturing rainwater, you can ensure that your plants receive a consistent and sustainable source of hydration, even during dry spells. Additionally, reducing your dependence on municipal water supplies helps to alleviate pressure on water sources and reduce the energy required for water treatment and distribution. Embrace water-saving practices in your garden to promote sustainability and resilience in the face of climate change.


5. Bulb Maintenance

After the colourful display of tulips and daffodils has faded, it's time to turn your attention to bulb maintenance. Gently remove spent flowers, known as deadheading, to prevent the plant from expending energy on seed production. Allow the foliage to naturally wither and turn yellow before trimming it back to ground level. This process allows the bulbs to redirect their energy towards storing nutrients for next year's growth, ensuring healthy and vigorous blooms in the seasons to come. Proper bulb maintenance not only prolongs the life of your bulbs but also promotes their resilience and longevity in your garden.

Dying Daffodil

6. Wildlife Sanctuary

Embark on a journey to create a haven for wildlife in your garden through the art of wildflower seeding. Scatter a tapestry of vibrant native blooms like cornflowers, poppies, chamomile, and oxeye daisies, beckoning bees and butterflies to explore and flourish in your outdoor sanctuary. By sowing these diverse wildflowers, you not only infuse beauty into your landscape but also provide essential nectar sources for local pollinators, nurturing biodiversity and ecosystem health. Embrace natural pest control methods to maintain balance without harming beneficial insects, fostering a harmonious coexistence between flora and fauna. Consider integrating water sources like birdbaths or shallow dishes, offering vital drinking and bathing spots for birds and small creatures. With thoughtful planning and dedication, transform your garden into a thriving wildlife sanctuary, alive with the buzz of pollinators and the flutter of wings.



As June unfolds, witness the flourishing of vibrant flowers, the verdant foliage reaching its peak, and the ever-changing landscape transforming into a haven of life and colour. Embrace the warmth of the season as your outdoor sanctuary becomes a bustling hub of activity, promising endless moments of joy and relaxation in the days to come.

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