Planting calendar
May Planting Guide for Austin, TX: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground Gardens
In May, Austin gardeners can focus on warm-season crops that thrive in heat and full sun. This is an ideal time to plant heat-tolerant vegetables and herbs directly in raised beds, containers, or in-ground. Avoid cool-season crops that struggle with rising temperatures.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Okra, Sweet potatoes, Basil, Cucumbers, Beans
Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes
- Basil
- Cucumbers
- Beans
- Melons
- Southern peas
Start indoors
- Winter squash
- Pumpkins
- Corn
- Sunflowers
- Malabar spinach
- Sweet corn
- Watermelon
- Gourds
Avoid
- Lettuce
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Spinach
- Peas
- Radishes
- Kale
- Carrots
Next 2 weeks
- Monitor soil moisture closely as temperatures rise
- Mulch raised beds and containers to conserve water
- Harden off any seedlings started indoors before transplanting
- Watch for pests like aphids and spider mites
- Fertilize warm-season crops with balanced fertilizer
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes directly in the ground in May in Austin?
Yes, May is a great time to transplant tomato seedlings into the ground as soil temperatures are warm enough for healthy growth.
Should I water raised beds differently than in-ground gardens in May?
Raised beds tend to dry out faster, so they may require more frequent watering compared to in-ground gardens during May's warmer weather.
Is it too hot to start lettuce in May in Austin?
Yes, lettuce prefers cooler temperatures and will bolt quickly in May’s heat, so it's best to avoid planting it now.
What are good container plants for May in Austin?
Heat-tolerant vegetables like peppers, eggplants, and herbs such as basil grow well in containers during May.
How can I protect my plants from pests in May?
Regularly inspect plants for pests like aphids and spider mites and use organic treatments or insecticidal soaps as needed.
Next steps
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