The 12 Best Crops to Plant in May

May is your garden’s green light to grow big. The days are longer, the soil is finally warming up, and the risk of frost is mostly gone—making this month one of the best times to plant a variety of crops. In this guide, we’ll explore the best crops to plant in May, from quick growers to flavorful favorites like Italian Red of Florence and White Lisbon onions

So, what should you be planting? Here’s your ultimate guide to the 12 best crops to sow in May—with a special spotlight on some flavorful favorites like Italian Red of Florence and White Lisbon onions.

1. Italian Red of Florence & White Lisbon Onions

• These flavorful bunching onions are perfect for beginners.
  Buy Italian Red of Florence Onion Seeds on Amazon
• Buy White Lisbon Bunching Onion Seeds on Amazon

These bunching onions are not your average kitchen staple. Italian Red of Florence delivers a sweet, mild flavor perfect for grilling, while White Lisbon offers a crisp bite ideal for salads and garnishes.

Planting Tips:

• Sow seeds 1–2 inches deep in fertile, well-drained soil (pH 6.0–7.0).
• Space plants 4–6 inches apart in rows 12–18 inches apart.
• Keep soil moist (not soggy) to avoid root rot.
• Full sun is essential—aim for 6–8 hours daily.
• Fertilize at planting and side-dress with nitrogen every 4–6 weeks.

2. 2. French Beans: Quick and Continuous Harvest

Climbing and dwarf French beans grow rapidly in May, especially when planted in warm soil. They’re great for gardeners who love repeat harvests.

Browse French Bean Seed Varieties on Amazon

Tips:

• Sow seeds 2 inches deep, with 2 per cane (climbers) or 4 inches apart (bush types).
• Pre-soak seeds to speed up germination.
• Use nitrogen-fixing inoculants to boost soil health.
• Companion plant with marigolds to deter pests.

3. Swiss Chard: Colorful and Nutritious

With its bright stems and leafy greens, Swiss chard adds a splash of color to your garden and nutrients to your plate.

Planting Tips:

• Direct-sow in soil warmed to 50°F+.
• Sow 2–4 inches apart; thin seedlings to 6 inches apart.
• Harvest baby leaves or wait 35–60 days for full growth.

4. Melons: Sweet Treats for Short Seasons

Short-season melons like ‘Minnesota Midget’ and ‘Hearts of Gold’ are perfect for May, especially in cooler regions.

Tips:

• Plant in raised beds enriched with compost.
• Allow vines to trail to keep fruit off the soil.
• Transplant gently—roots are sensitive.

5. Leeks: Long-Harvest Vegetables

Leeks can be transplanted or sown directly in May and offer months of harvesting.

Tips:

• Plant in deep holes to blanch and sweeten stems.
• Thin seedlings for optimal airflow.
• Keep soil rich and evenly moist.

6. Parsnips: Sweet Roots for Fall

Often overlooked, parsnips are perfect for planting in May if you’re planning a hearty autumn table.

Tips:

• Use fresh seeds only (they lose viability quickly).
• Sow in drills and thin to 6-inch spacing.
• Keep soil moist for even germination.

7. Pumpkins: Last Chance for Fall Harvest

Want homegrown jack-o’-lanterns or pie filling? Plant your pumpkins now!

Tips:

• Sow indoors or directly in warm soil (68°F+).
• Space at least 6 feet apart—these need room!
• Thin to strongest seedling per hill.
• Protect with cloches or row covers if nights get cool.

8. Rutabaga: Hardy and Sweet

This underappreciated root veg thrives when sown in late May for a robust fall harvest.

Tips:

• Sow ½ inch deep in rows 15–18 inches apart.
• Thin to 8 inches for best root development.
• Consistent moisture prevents cracking.

9. Beetroot: Easy and Versatile

Beets are a beginner-friendly crop, offering colorful harvests with earthy flavor.

Tips:

• Direct sow in shallow drills.
• Thin to 3–4 inches apart.
• Try varieties like ‘Chioggia’ or ‘Touchstone Gold’ for variety.

10. Sweetcorn: Warm-Season Favorite

If you want fresh, homegrown corn on the cob, May is your last call.

Tips:

• Start in trays and transplant after frost danger.
• Plant in blocks, not rows, to aid pollination.
• Water deeply and frequently in hot weather.

11. Cabbage: Cool-Season Crop That Loves May

Cabbage planted in May can yield large, dense heads by mid-summer or fall.

Tips:

• Use hardy transplants and space them well.
• Mulch to retain moisture and deter weeds.
• Cover with mesh to protect from cabbage moths.

12. Herbs: Basil, Dill, Oregano, and More

Fragrant and Practical

Fresh herbs take your garden (and your kitchen) to the next level. May is the ideal time to start most annual and perennial herbs.

Tips:

• Sow directly or transplant into well-drained soil.
• Provide full sun and regular watering (without overwatering).
• Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth.

Practical Takeaways for Your May Garden

• Soil Matters: Mix in compost and check drainage before planting.
• Sunlight Rules: Most plants need 6–8 hours daily.
• Spacing Counts: Overcrowding invites pests and disease.
• Water Wisely: Keep soil evenly moist—especially for seedlings.
• Companion Plant: Add marigolds, nasturtiums, or dill to attract beneficial insects and deter pests.
• Stagger Your Plantings: Sow crops like lettuce or beans every 2–3 weeks for extended harvests.

Ready to Plant Your May Garden?

May offers a fantastic window to grow a diverse and productive garden. From the flavorful Italian Red of Florence onions to sweet melons and hearty root vegetables, there’s a crop for every gardener’s taste and climate. What will you be planting this May? Share your plans or questions in the comments below – let’s grow together!

Whether you’re planting flavorful Italian Red onions or sweet summer melons, May gives you a golden opportunity to grow a lush, diverse garden. From leafy greens to root crops and fragrant herbs, this is your month to dig in—literally.

So, what will you plant this May?
Drop a comment below and share your gardening goals or ask questions—we’d love to grow together!