May Notes from the Potting Shed
with Gardening Expert Chris Milborne
May is a wonderful month in the garden, perhaps marking the end of spring and the start of summer. As the seasons change, gardens develop and evolve, and the countryside is full to bursting with fresh young leaves in many shades of green. Each day brings the welcome sight of new flowers and blossom opening. The garden looks young and fresh, with everything growing in abundance.
Spring has produced glorious flowers. The Cherry Blossom, although seemingly flowering earlier than normal, has been delightful, with trees turning into domes of white and sugary pink. The flowers have lasted longer than usual, thanks to weeks without strong winds or rain. Magnolias and Forsythias have also flowered for weeks. There is the excitement and beauty of Apple Blossom and Bluebells making their colourful impact in woodlands and shady spots, while late Tulips in borders and containers add further colour.
Rhododendrons are coming into flower - mainly evergreen plants available in a vast range of sizes and colours, including lilacs, pinks, magentas, purples, apricots, and creamy whites. They need well-drained, humus-rich acid soil in dappled shade where the soil stays moist in summer. They look fantastic when grown with Japanese Acers, Hostas, Ferns, Brunneras, Vincas, and Pulmonarias. If soil conditions are unsuitable, grow dwarf Rhododendrons or Rhodo Yakushianum in containers with ericaceous compost. Deciduous Rhododendrons offer striking yellow or orange flowers, often scented, with rich autumn colour.
Clematis Montana produces scented flowers in shades of pink and white against bronzy foliage - a stunning plant for trellis, walls, or trees.
May is one of the busiest months in the garden. With longer evenings and warmer weather, it’s time to tidy spring plants and plant beds and borders with summer shrubs, Roses, and herbaceous plants. These look best grown in groups. Plant climbers for sun or shade, and keep the vegetable plot in full swing.
Plant summer containers and hanging baskets using fresh compost and regular feeding. Choose colours and styles to suit your taste - formal single-colour schemes, soft pastels, or bold tropical combinations. Mediterranean-style pots with Olives, Bay, Lavender, Rosemary, and Thyme also work beautifully.
Support tall herbaceous plants before they collapse, using twigs or wire supports. Tie in climbing Roses horizontally to encourage more blooms. Plant Sweet Peas for colour and scent. Continue deadheading and feeding spring bulbs with liquid potash. Leave foliage to die back naturally to feed next year’s growth.
Herbs and Vegetables
Sow Lettuce little and often. May is ideal for sowing Beetroot, Carrots, Cabbage, Spinach, Chard, Turnips, Peas, and Beans. Plant Marrows, Squashes, Pumpkins, and Courgettes in rich, moist soil. Plant Sweetcorn in blocks for pollination, and grow Beans alongside Sweet Peas to attract insects. Plant Tomatoes and Peppers in a warm, sunny spot.
Look Ahead
Now is a great time to take photos of your garden as it grows and changes, helping with ideas for next year. With planting, sowing, and weeding, May is busy - but your efforts will be rewarded in summer. The Chelsea Flower Show also offers inspiration for new ideas, so keep a look out for the Blue Diamond exhibit, with plenty of practical ideas you can put into practice.
