Vegetable Seeds to Sow in May

May is one of the vegetable garden’s busiest and most rewarding months. Warmer soil, longer days, and more reliable weather make it ideal for sowing various crops. Whether you’re growing in beds, borders, or containers, there are plenty of vegetable seeds to sow in May that will thrive in these conditions.

From quick-growing salad leaves to warm-season staples like courgettes and beans, there’s still time to fill any gaps in your plot. With average temperatures often sitting between 10–20°C (50–68°F), most seeds germinate quickly if kept moist and sheltered from cold winds.

May is the perfect month to grow for both summer and autumn harvests. You can stay on top of watering, remove weeds early, and thin out overcrowded seedlings. With regular sowings and a little care, you’ll enjoy fresh, homegrown produce straight through the summer and into the autumn months.

Broad Beans

Planting broad beans in May is a rewarding way to extend their growing season. Choose a sunny, well-drained spot in your garden or use large containers. Sow seeds 5-7.5 cm deep, spacing them 15-23 cm apart. Broad beans thrive with assistance, so add some support like canes or netting. Water them regularly, especially during flowering, to ensure healthy pods. Pick the pods while young and tender for the sweetest taste as they fatten. They boast a rich, nutty flavour and are terrific in salads, stews, or simply steamed with a knob of butter for a delightful spring-summer dish.

Climbing French Beans

Sow climbing French beans in May to enjoy a bountiful summer harvest. Select a sunny spot with well-drained soil, and erect a trellis or canes for your beans to ascend. Plant seeds 5 cm deep and 15 cm apart, leaving plenty of room for their vigorous growth. Consistent watering promotes rapid development and profuse flowering. As the plants mature, they’ll offer slender, flavourful pods perfect for stir-fries or salads. Harvest beans regularly to encourage continual production. Their crisp texture and subtle taste make them a versatile addition to various culinary creations.

Dwarf French Beans

May is ideal for sowing dwarf French beans, a versatile crop for small spaces or containers. These compact plants suit any sunny, well-drained spot. Sow seeds 5 cm deep and space them 10-15 cm apart for bushy growth. You’ll enjoy tender, stringless pods that develop quickly, perfect for fresh eating or cooking. Regular watering and a bit of mulch help retain moisture and keep plants healthy. With attentive care, you’ll harvest delicious beans to toss into salads and side dishes or freeze for later use. Enjoy their crunch and mild flavour throughout the summer.

Runner Beans

Sow runner beans in May for a plentiful summer and autumn crop. You can opt for a sunny, sheltered site, providing tall canes or a trellis for these vigorous climbers. Plant seeds 5 cm deep, ideally at the base of supports, spacing them 20-30 cm apart. Consistent watering and mulching promote growth and pod development. Once flowers bloom, prepare for an abundant yield of long, flavourful beans. Pick regularly to extend the harvest period. With their firm texture and sweet taste, runner beans are delightful sautéed, steamed, or added to casseroles, making them a garden staple.

Beetroot

May is an excellent month for sowing beetroot seeds. Find a sunny patch with well-drained, loose soil. Sow seeds thinly in rows 2.5 cm deep, and space rows about 30 cm apart. As seedlings sprout, thin them to about 10 cm apart to allow room for growth. Regular watering ensures sweet, juicy roots. Beetroot is incredibly versatile—enjoy it roasted, pickled, or raw in salads. Its lovely, earthy flavour and vibrant colour add a distinctive touch to many dishes, packed with nutrients and flavour. Beetroot makes a fantastic addition to your vegetable patch.

Broccoli – Autumn

May delivers prime conditions to sow autumn broccoli, offering a delicious, nutrient-rich vegetable with hearty growth through cooler months. Use seed trays or sow directly into prepared ground in well-draining, fertile soil. Space seedlings approximately 60 cm apart to support sprawling heads. You can keep them well-watered and watch out for common pests. Broccoli provides endless versatility in the kitchen, whether steamed, roasted, or incorporated into stir-fries. This nutritious brassica serves as a healthy addition to your diet, ensuring a rich bounty well into autumn, complementing an array of meals from family dinners to sophisticated culinary experiences.

Broccoli – Spring

Spring broccoli in May sets your garden up for a bountiful harvest in the coming months. Sow seeds in trays or beds in enriched, well-drained soil, ensuring ample sunlight exposure. Transplant seedlings to their final position after they’ve sprouted, spacing them about 45 cm apart. Regular watering fosters robust growth. This crop yields crisp, tender florets perfect for steaming, sautéing, or incorporating into dishes. The mild flavour and nutritional punch make spring broccoli an excellent choice for inspiring fresh, wholesome meals, delighting both casual cooks and adventurous food enthusiasts alike.

Brussel Sprouts

May is a fine time to plant Brussels sprouts and prepare your garden for winter’s hearty harvest. Sow seeds in seed trays or directly into rich, well-draining soil, ensuring they receive plenty of sunlight. Once seedlings are established, space them about 60 cm apart for ample growth. Water regularly to prevent bitterness. These miniature cabbages deliver dense, nutty flavours, offering versatility— delicious roasted, sautéed, or tossed in salads. By nurturing your Brussels sprouts through the summer, you’ll enjoy hearty produce through autumn and winter, providing comfort and nutrition in colder months.

Cabbage Summer/Autumn

May is perfect for sowing summer and autumn cabbages, promising an abundant supply of these leafy greens. Sow seeds in modules or directly in a sunny, fertile site. Once seedlings are sturdy, transplant them with generous spacing, about 45 cm apart to accommodate mature heads. Consistent watering and pest management ensure healthy growth. Cabbage is a staple in many cuisines—enjoy it sautéed, stuffed, or fresh in coleslaws. This nutrient-rich vegetable is an excellent source of vitamins. You’ll relish a wealth of crunchy, delicious cabbage with the proper care throughout the growing season.

Cabbage Winter

May offers an excellent opportunity to sow winter cabbages, setting up a harvest to reap the garden’s rewards through chillier months. Start seeds indoors or directly in fertilised beds, under cover if needed. After seedlings reach sturdy enough heights, space them 60 cm apart in rows for unencumbered heads. Regular care ensures robust growth and protects them through seasonal transitions. Winter cabbages produce thick, crunchy heads bursting with flavours ideal for soups, stews, and pickling. Their vibrant presence among garden beds preempts cold-weather lulls, providing richness and sustenance through winter’s heart.

Carrot

Sowing carrots in May invigorates your garden with the promise of vibrant, sweet roots come summer. Select a sunny, well-drained plot for your carrots; sow seeds thinly about 1 cm deep directly into the soil. Space rows approximately 20 cm apart. Ensure regular watering, but be cautious not to overwater, which can cause forked roots. As seedlings emerge, thin them to allow space for full development. Home-grown carrots captivate with their sweetness and crunch, perfect for salads, stews, or roasting. Their versatility and freshness make them a treasured staple in the home kitchen.

Cauliflower Summer/Autumn

May creates an ideal window to sow summer/autumn cauliflower, promising flavourful and nutritious curds for harvest later in the year. Use seed trays or plant seeds directly in sunny plots enriched with compost. Place seedlings around 45 cm apart outdoors to allow space for dense heads to form. Regular watering and pest control ensure their full potential. Delight in preparing cauliflower steamed, roasted, or pureed—its adaptability enhances a wide array of culinary delights. This valuable source of vitamins brings continuous garden yields and captures meal inspirations throughout summer and autumn.

Cauliflower Winter

Sowing winter cauliflower in May prepares you for a fresh, homegrown harvest during the colder months. Choose a sunny spot with fertile, well-drained soil. Enrich the area with compost or well-rotted manure if needed. Sow seeds in trays or outdoors, spacing them about 60 cm apart for healthy growth. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and water regularly. Remove weeds and watch for pests to protect developing plants. The heads will be ready to pick by late autumn, just when other crops are fading. Winter cauliflower is easy to prepare and works well roasted, steamed, or added to warming dishes like soups and casseroles. Its mild, nutty flavour adds variety to your winter meals. Growing your own saves money and ensures a reliable supply of fresh vegetables when shop-bought options are limited. It’s a rewarding way to extend your harvest well beyond summer.

Cilantro

In May, introduce cilantro to your garden for a fresh, aromatic supply of this delicious herb throughout summer. Choose a sunny or partially shaded spot in well-drained soil. Sow seeds in rows, spaced 25-30 cm apart, and cover lightly with soil. Water regularly to prevent bolting. Cilantro leaves are ready to be harvested once they reach a healthy size, perfect for brightening up salsas, curries, and salads with their distinctive, fresh aroma. This versatile herb thrives with little maintenance, elevating your garden’s bounty and culinary creations.

Corn Salad

Sowing corn salad in May gives you a steady supply of fresh, tender greens through late spring and early summer. Also called lamb’s lettuce, this hardy crop prefers cooler weather and grows well in sun or partial shade. Choose well-drained soil and sow seeds directly into the ground, spacing them 10 cm apart in rows 20 cm apart. Water regularly to keep the soil moist, especially during dry spells. Corn salad grows quickly and is ready to pick in six to eight weeks. Harvest outer leaves as needed, allowing the centre to keep producing. Its mild, nutty flavour makes it a great addition to salads and sandwiches. As a cut-and-come-again crop, it offers multiple harvests from a single sowing. Easy to grow and rewarding to eat, corn salad is a brilliant way to enjoy home-grown greens with minimal effort. You’ll enjoy both the gardening and the flavourful results.

Courgette

In May, sow courgette seeds to enjoy a summer of plentiful, home-grown produce. Use pots or plant directly into well-drained soil in a sunny position. Space plants about 90 cm apart for optimal growth. Regular watering and occasional feeding ensure robust plants and abundant fruiting. Pick courgettes when young and tender to encourage further production. Enjoy them sliced in salads, grilled on the barbecue, or even baked into delicious breads and cakes. Courgettes are versatile, nutritious, and a great way to make the most of the summer season’s fresh flavours.

Cucumber

May is perfect for sowing cucumbers and bringing fresh, juicy bites soon afterwards. Use pots to start seeds indoors or plant directly outdoors in rich, well-drained soil. When seedlings have developed robustly and the last frost has passed, space them generously, with ample sunlight exposure and moist, supportive conditions. Train climbing varieties up trellises to save space and encourage healthy growth. With care, vining cucumbers provide crisp, mellow flavour enhancements adaptable for fresh salads, sandwiches, or tangy pickles. Experience refreshing coolness and gentle zest from each garden harvest even before temperatures peak.

Endive

Sowing endive in May gives you a steady crop of crisp, slightly bitter leaves—ideal for summer salads. Choose a sunny spot with rich, moisture-retentive soil and mix in compost before sowing. Directly sow seeds, spacing them about 25 cm apart in rows 20–30 cm apart. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist and help reduce leaf bitterness. Blanch the plants by tying outer leaves together or covering with a pot to make the inner leaves more tender. Harvest individual leaves as needed or cut the whole head when mature. Endive adds texture and a subtle tang to salads and is easy to grow with just a bit of care. A reliable addition to your garden, it delivers flavour and freshness throughout the warmer months.

Florence Fennel

May is the perfect window to plant Florence fennel, setting the stage for a flavourful and wide-ranging harvest. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot in well-drained soil, and sow seeds directly, spacing them about 30 cm apart. Regular watering produces tender bulbs and prevents any bolting. The aniseed-flavoured bulbs can be sliced raw into salads for a crisp bite or cooked to bring out their sweet, mellow undertones. Terrestrial foliage enhances flavourings outright, allowing this attractive plant to become a multi-use crop, integrating beautifully into diverse meals.

Kale

Plant kale in May to enjoy nutrient-rich, flavourful leaves as the season progresses. Choose a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-drained soil. Sow seeds sparsely in rows, about 45 cm apart. Regular watering and occasional feeding promote vigorous growth. Harvest young leaves from the outer edges for a tender, mild addition to salads or sautés. Enjoy a robust array of vitamins and minerals as you continue picking through late autumn or winter. Whether used for smoothies, chips, or soups, kale’s versatility and nutrition make it an excellent garden staple.

Kohl Rabi

May is a favourable moment to introduce Kohl Rabi into your garden, leading to crisp, flavourful bulbs later. Sow seeds in well-drained soil with ample sunlight. Space seedlings about 25-30 cm apart to accommodate their broad growth. Maintain regular watering and care to bolster their progress—harvest when bulbs reach tennis ball size for the most tender texture. Whether roasted, boiled, or grated raw into salads, Kohl Rabi brings adaptability and subtle, slightly peppery tang to myriad culinary delights, adding intrigue to your kitchen creations.

Leaf Beet

May is prime time to plant leaf beet, which will invigorate your plot. Choose a sunny or partially shaded site with well-drained soil. Sow seeds in rows spaced 45 cm apart, about 2 cm deep. Water regularly to encourage lush growth. With its vibrant colours and earthy taste, leaf beet shines as an ingredient in salads or lightly cooked as a nutrient-rich side dish. This robust plant delivers leaves and stems throughout the season, providing continuous harvests and various meal opportunities. Gardeners will find it a rewarding, easy-to-maintain addition.

Lettuce – Summer

Sow summer lettuce in May to ensure fresh, crisp salads are only a short step away. Select a well-drained sunny spot in the garden and sow seeds thinly, about 1 cm deep. Water regularly to ensure healthy, vigorous growth. Space rows approximately 20-30 cm apart to allow lettuces to spread. Depending on the variety, you’ll enjoy gentle buttery leaves or hearty crisp textures. Pick young leaves for continuous regrowth. Lettuces provide versatility and flavour, dressing up salads with an intrinsic crunchy delight, perfect for a refreshing summer meal.

Marrow

May is the time to sow marrow seeds for summer crops. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot with rich, well-drained soil. Sow seeds in pots or directly into the ground, spacing them about 90 cm apart. Keep the soil moist, and apply mulch to prevent drying. These prolific plants produce large, mild-flavoured fruits, ideal for stuffing, baking, or adding to stews and casseroles—harvest marrows when they reach 20-30 cm for the best texture and taste. July sees marrows producing bounteous yields across gardens and allotments, embodying rustic charm encountered via cuisine.

Melon

May is an ideal time to plant melons for a sweet, juicy harvest later in summer. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained, fertile soil. Sow seeds indoors first or directly outside once all frost risk has passed—space seeds in mounds about 1.5 metres apart to accommodate their spreading habit. Water regularly but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. As vines grow, look for fruit forming and feed with a balanced fertiliser to boost flavour and size. Harvest when the fruit smells sweet and slips easily from the stem. Melons are perfect sliced fresh, in smoothies, or added to fruit salads—bringing a burst of summer freshness from your garden to the table.

Onion – Spring

May is a great time to sow spring onion seeds for fresh, zesty harvests throughout summer. You can pick a sunny spot with loose, well-drained soil. Clear weeds and enrich the area with compost before sowing. Sow seeds thinly, about 1 cm deep, in rows spaced 20 cm apart. Keep the soil moist with regular watering to support germination. Spring onions grow quickly and are ready to harvest when they reach pencil thickness, usually in 8–12 weeks. Their crisp texture and mild flavour make them ideal for salads, stir-fries, and garnishes. To extend your harvest, sow small batches every few weeks. Spring onions are low-maintenance and perfect for gardeners of all levels. Growing your own gives you quick, tasty results straight from the garden.

Parsley

May is a fantastic time to sow parsley seeds, providing a year-round supply of this versatile herb. Pick a sunny or partially shaded site with well-drained soil in your garden. Pre-soak the seeds in warm water to speed up germination, then sow them thinly in rows about 25 cm apart. Water the plants regularly to keep the soil moist, as parsley thrives in damp conditions. Harvest the outer leaves once your plants have established to encourage new growth. Parsley’s fresh, slightly peppery flavour adds freshness to salads, soups, and sauces, making it a staple in the kitchen. You can just grow your parsley to have a ready supply of this essential herb at your fingertips.

Parsnip

Plant parsnip seeds in May to set the stage for a hearty winter harvest. Choose a sunny area with deep, fertile, well-drained soil, and remove any stones to prevent forked roots. Sow seeds directly into the soil, spacing them about 10 cm apart in rows 30 cm apart. Water regularly to keep the soil moist. Parsnips take time to grow but reward patience with their sweet, nutty flavour. Enjoy them roasted, mashed, or in soups and stews. By sowing in May, you ensure a continuous supply of this versatile root vegetable to enhance your autumn and winter menus.

Pumpkin

Planting pumpkin seeds in May sets up a glorious autumn harvest. Choose a sunny, spacious area with rich, well-drained soil. Sow seeds directly into the ground, spacing them about 1.5 metres apart to accommodate their sprawling vines. Water regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Feed the pumpkins with a balanced fertiliser to promote healthy development as they grow. Harvest your pumpkins when their skin hardens, and they sound hollow when tapped. Whether carving them for Halloween or using them in soups, pies, or roasting, home-grown pumpkins offer delightful culinary possibilities.

Radicchio

Sow radicchio in May to enjoy its distinctive, slightly bitter leaves. Pick a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-drained, fertile soil. Sow seeds directly into the ground in rows, spacing them about 30 cm apart. Water regularly to maintain soil moisture, which helps to reduce bitterness. Radicchio matures quickly, allowing you to enjoy its crunchy texture and vibrant colour throughout salads and other dishes. By harvesting the outer leaves first, you can encourage the plant to produce new growth. Radicchio’s unique flavour profile makes it an excellent addition to various culinary creations, offering taste and nutrition.

Radish

Sowing radish seeds in May offers a quick-growing, rewarding crop. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil and sow seeds thinly in rows, spacing them about 1 cm apart. Keep the soil moist to support rapid growth, and you’ll have crunchy radishes ready to harvest in just a few weeks. Their vibrant colour and peppery flavour make them a fantastic addition to salads and sandwiches. Radishes add flavour and crunch to your meals, and you can sow them successively for a constant supply. Easy to grow and versatile in the kitchen, radishes are a perfect way to enhance your garden and table.

Rocket

Plant rocket seeds in May for a fresh and peppery addition to your summer salads. Choose a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-drained soil. Sow the seeds thinly and cover lightly with soil, spacing rows about 20 cm apart. Rocket grows quickly and requires regular watering to promote lush, tender leaves. Harvest when the leaves are large enough to pick, encouraging continuous growth. With its distinctive flavour, rocket adds a lively touch to salads, sandwiches, and garnishes. It’s an essential green for those who enjoy a bold, peppery punch to their dishes.

Salsify

May is an ideal time to plant salsify, a unique vegetable often called the ‘oyster plant’ for its subtle seafood-like flavour. Choose a sunny spot with light, well-drained soil and sow seeds directly into the ground. Allow about 30 cm between rows. Water regularly to maintain moisture, supporting long, slender root development. Salsify’s mild taste makes it versatile in soups or roasted as a side dish. It takes patience to reach maturity, but salsify’s unique flavour and texture will elevate your culinary repertoire.

Scorzonera

In May, sow scorzonera to explore this lesser-known yet versatile root vegetable. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Sow seeds directly into the ground, spacing them about 30 cm apart in rows. Regularly water to encourage root growth and minimise fibrous development. With its oyster-like flavour, Scorzonera transforms your culinary creations—whether roasted, boiled, or sautéed. This resilient crop will yield nutritious and delicious roots into late autumn. Scorzonera diversifies your vegetable patch, providing distinct tastes for diverse dining options.

Spinach

May offers an optimal sowing period for spinach, yielding nutritious, leafy greens through late spring into summer. Choose a partially shaded spot with well-drained, rich soil. Sow thinly in rows about 30 cm apart, covering them lightly with soil. Water regularly to keep the soil moist and support rapid growth. Harvest leaves as required, encouraging continuous production. Spinach’s vibrant green colour and mild flavour make it a versatile addition to smoothies, salads, or cooked dishes. Home-grown spinach is a rewarding and straightforward crop that adds excellent nutrition to your meals.

Spinach

Plant spinach and leaf beet seeds in May to enjoy a vibrant selection of leafy greens. Choose a sunny or partially shaded location with nutrient-rich, well-drained soil. Sow seeds thinly in rows about 30 cm apart and water them consistently. Harvest the outer leaves regularly to encourage new growth. Its various colours, leaf beet, or chard, enhance garden aesthetics and culinary offerings. It’s equally suited to salads, sautés, or use in stews. Nutritious, versatile, and easy to grow, spinach and leaf beet make a substantial addition to any vegetable garden.

Swede

Sow swede seeds in May for a hearty winter crop. These versatile root vegetables prefer a sunny spot with deep, fertile soil. Sow seeds directly into the ground, spacing them evenly in rows about 30 cm apart. Swedes develop slowly, so keep the soil moist and free from weeds to allow proper root growth. Known for their sweet, earthy flavour, swedes work well roasted, mashed, or added to stews. Growing swedes ensures a winter backup of nutritious options while fulfilling diverse culinary aspects noted across traditional menus visited time and again.

Sweet Corn

Plant sweet corn in May to enjoy golden, sweet-tasting cobs each summer. You can select a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil, and sow seeds in blocks rather than rows. This block planting helps with pollination. Space seeds about 45 cm apart and water regularly to nourish the plants. Sweet corn requires warmth and consistent water to develop whole cobs, bursting with flavour. Grill the cobs on the barbecue, or simply boil and enjoy with butter for a classic treat. Sweet corn offers the best summer flavours, whether fresh from the garden or served hot from the pot.

Swiss Chard

Swiss chard is a versatile, colourful vegetable perfect for sowing in May. It thrives in well-drained soil and can flourish in sunny or partially shaded locations. Sow seeds thinly in rows about 30 cm apart, covering them lightly. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the plants healthy. Harvest outer leaves continuously to encourage new growth throughout the season. Swiss chard’s earthy flavour enhances various dishes, from salads to sautés or baked dishes. Its nutritional profile and vibrant stalks make Swiss chard a vibrant, worthwhile addition to your garden and kitchen.

Turnip

Sow turnip seeds in May for a quick-growing, versatile crop. These hardy vegetables thrive in sunny, well-drained soil. Sow seeds directly into the ground, spacing them 10 cm apart in rows 30 cm apart. Maintain steady moisture to support rapid growth and tender roots. Turnips offer a delicate, earthy flavour that complements soups, roasts, or salads. The origins and the leafy tops can be harvested, providing dual culinary uses. Easy to cultivate and quick to mature, turnips add delightful texture and taste to your meals, making them a reliable choice for kitchen gardens.

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May is truly one of my favourite months in the garden. While I don’t grow everything on the list, I always make sure to sow broad beans, courgettes, and a good mix of salad leaves—they’re reliable, quick to harvest, and perfect for keeping fresh greens on the table all summer. The warmer soil and longer days make sowing much easier and more rewarding. I also find this is the ideal time to fill any gaps in my beds or containers, giving me a steady supply of veggies from summer to autumn. Keeping an eye on watering and thinning seedlings makes a big difference, too. It’s all about nurturing your garden steadily during May, and the results—homegrown produce bursting with flavour—are well worth the effort.