May in the garden: growth, gaps and keeping on top of things

Protect tender plants

There can still be the odd cold night early in the month, so tender plants are worth protecting. Dahlias, summer bedding and other frost-sensitive plants are better planted once that risk has passed.

Keep borders in shape

Weeds are growing just as quickly as everything else. Getting on top of them now is much easier than dealing with them once they have flowered and seeded.

This is also a useful month for spotting gaps. Once the existing plants have filled out, it becomes much easier to see where a border needs more height, colour or structure.

Care for lawns and wildlife

Lawns can be cut regularly, although they do not all need to look like a bowling green. Leaving an area slightly longer gives insects somewhere to feed and can make a larger garden feel softer and more natural.

Before cutting hedges, check carefully for nesting birds.

Water new planting well

New planting will need more water as temperatures rise. A proper soak every few days is better than a quick splash each evening because the water needs to reach the roots.

May rewards small, regular jobs. Keep on top of things now and the garden heads into summer looking full rather than overgrown.