May Garden Tips – Getting Ready for Summer!

May is here, and the summer heat is just around the corner.  There is so much happening in our gardens this month. Here is a list of things to do in May.

1. Plant Vegetables: Plant warm-season vegetables and consider succession planting every two weeks for extended harvests.
2. Prevent Spider Mites: Take preventative measures such as adequate irrigation, daily misting of leaf undersides, reducing dustiness, and using horticultural oil sprays.
3. Fertilize Fruit Trees: Fruit trees are actively growing, so fertilize them accordingly, following directions and safety precautions provided with the fertilizer you choose. 
4. Prune Roses: Prune spent blooms weekly down to the first five-part leaf or slightly further for shaping. Lightly feed and water afterward.
5. Prune Sub-Tropical and Deciduous Fruit Trees: May is ideal for pruning trees like ficus, coral tree, avocado, citrus, etc. Avoid pruning sub-tropical trees in winter.
6. Plant Perennials: May is a great time to plant perennials; keep them well-watered as summer approaches.
7. Fertilize Dahlias: Regularly fertilize dahlias with a low nitrogen, high phosphorus organic fertilizer like fish bone meal throughout their growing and blooming period.
8. Turn on Automatic Timers: Now that the rainy season is over ensure your automatic timers are turned back on for watering. Water deeply and less frequently rather than with light, daily sprinkles
9. Check Drip System: Regularly check drip systems for clogs, leaks, and broken parts to ensure efficient watering.
10. Monitor for Pests: Visually survey plants weekly for pests and take action early to prevent high populations that are difficult to control.
11. Refresh Mulch: Maintain soil moisture by refreshing mulch around plants.
12. Weed Control: Remove weeds to reduce competition for water with your plants.

With this May garden checklist, you're well-equipped to embrace the season's abundance and nurture a thriving garden.

Ask your local UC Master Gardener Program.

Have a gardening question? UC Master Gardener volunteers are available to help. Click here to Find a Program and connect with your local UC Master Gardener Program. You will be redirected to your local county website and contact information. UC Master Gardener volunteers are available to help answer questions for FREE. Happy gardening! 

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