Jobs in the Garden: May 2024

1. Plant summer-flowering bulbs such as dahlias and gladioli.
2. Sow annual flower seeds directly into the soil or containers for summer blooms.
3. Divide overcrowded clumps of perennials to maintain their vigor and promote healthy growth.
4. Prune spring-flowering shrubs like forsythia and lilac once they have finished flowering.
5. Keep on top of weeding to prevent weeds from taking over and competing with your plants for nutrients.
6. Mulch beds and borders to suppress weeds, conserve moisture, and regulate soil temperature.
7. Feed container plants with a balanced liquid fertilizer to support their growth throughout the growing season.
8. Train and tie in climbers and rambling roses to their supports to encourage growth in the desired direction.
9. Monitor plants for pests and diseases, taking appropriate action to control any outbreaks.
10. Keep an eye on watering needs, particularly for newly planted or container-grown plants, ensuring they receive adequate moisture during dry spells.
11. Regularly deadhead flowering plants to prolong the blooming period and encourage further flower production.
12. Gradually harden off any indoor-sown plants before planting them out in their final positions in the garden.
13. Start harvesting early crops such as salad leaves, radishes, and spring onions as they become ready for picking.
14. Prune back any frost-damaged growth on tender plants, but avoid pruning those that are still at risk of late frosts.
15. Prepare the ground and sow seeds or plant seedlings of warm-season vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and courgettes.

These tasks should keep you busy and your garden flourishing throughout the month of May!