Fruit and veg to plant in May for a big summer garden harvest

As spring is now upon us, gardeners across the country are eagerly preparing their plots for a season of abundant growth and fruitful harvests. We will soon be in May, which is a pivotal moment in the gardening calendar, offering prime conditions for planting a diverse array of fruit and vegetables that thrive in mild temperatures and longer daylight hours.

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a novice enthusiast, now is the perfect time to roll up your sleeves and get planting in order to have beautiful fresh homegrown seasonal produce come summer and autumn. To guide gardeners in their May planting endeavours, experts at the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) have curated a selection of fruits and vegetables ideally suited for this time of year.

From leafy greens to succulent berries, these recommended varieties promise to flourish in spring's gentle embrace and provide gardeners with a bounty of fresh produce to enjoy for weeks, or even months, to come. Below there is advice on growing peppers, tomatoes, lettuce, strawberries, herbs, carrots and more besides.

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How to grow tomatoes

No summer garden is complete without the iconic tomato plant. May is the optimal time to transplant tomato seedlings into the garden, providing them with ample sunlight and well-drained soil.

Choose from a variety of tomato cultivars, including beefsteak, cherry, and heirloom varieties, and watch as they flourish and bear fruit in the warm summer months ahead.

How to grow peppers

Whether sweet or spicy, peppers thrive in the warm temperatures of late spring and summer. Plant pepper seedlings in nutrient-rich soil and provide them with plenty of sunlight to encourage healthy growth and prolific fruiting. With proper care and attention, pepper plants will reward gardeners with a colourful and flavourful harvest.

How to grow lettuce and leafy greens

Leafy greens, such as lettuce, spinach, and kale, are well-suited for May planting, offering a nutritious and versatile addition to the garden. Sow seeds directly into the soil or transplant seedlings into well-amended beds, ensuring they receive consistent moisture and partial shade to prevent bolting in the summer heat.

How to grow strawberries

Nothing captures the essence of spring quite like the sweet, juicy flavour of freshly picked strawberries. Plant strawberry crowns or runners in well-drained soil with ample sunlight, spacing them according to their specific variety. Regular watering and mulching will help maintain soil moisture and promote healthy fruit development throughout the season.

How to grow herbs

May is an excellent time to establish a herb garden, providing fresh flavours and aromas to enhance culinary creations all summer long. Plant a variety of herbs, including basil, cilantro, and parsley, in containers or directly in the garden, ensuring they receive adequate sunlight and moisture for optimal growth. Remember too that some are more aggressive than others. Rosemary, for example, may take over your herb garden.

How to grow radishes and carrots

Quick-growing root vegetables like radishes and carrots are perfect for May planting, offering a satisfying harvest in just a few weeks. Sow seeds directly into well-prepared soil and thin seedlings as they grow to ensure proper spacing. With consistent watering and attention to soil health, these crunchy vegetables will thrive in the spring garden.