Are you in a hot or cold climate?
Before diving into planting, it’s crucial to understand your climate zone. This will significantly influence which plants will thrive in your garden. Consider these broad categories:
- Cold Climates: Characterized by short growing seasons, cold winters, and potential for frost. Focus on hardy plants that can tolerate these conditions.
- Hot Climates: Long, hot summers with mild winters. Select heat-tolerant and drought-resistant varieties.
You can easily enter your zip code on the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map site to get the exact zone number that you are in. Click here to check your zone.
What to Plant in Cold Climates
May is a prime planting month for cold climate gardens. The risk of frost is decreasing, and the soil is warming up. Here are some excellent choices:
- Leafy Greens: Lettuce, spinach, kale, Swiss chard
- Root Vegetables: Carrots, radishes, beets
- Brassicas: Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage
- Peas: Snap peas, snow peas, garden peas
- Potatoes
What to Plant in Hot Climates
May is ideal for planting heat-loving crops in hot climate gardens. Here are some top picks:
Peppers
Eggplant
Cucumbers
Zucchini
Southern Peas
Okra
Sweet Potatoes
Tropical Greens
With careful planning and the right techniques, you can cultivate a vibrant and productive garden in May, regardless of your climate. Remember to choose plants that are well-suited to your local conditions and provide them with proper care throughout the growing season. Happy gardening!
