Planting calendar
May Planting Guide for Boston, MA: Raised Beds, Containers, and In-Ground Gardens
May is an ideal month in Boston to plant warm-season vegetables and flowers outdoors in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. With the risk of frost mostly past, you can confidently sow seeds and transplant seedlings for a productive summer garden. Focus on tomatoes, peppers, beans, herbs, and flowers suited for full sun and well-drained soil.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes (transplants), Peppers (transplants), Bush beans (direct sow), Cucumbers (direct sow), Zucchini (direct sow), Basil (transplants or direct sow), Marigolds (transplants), Sunflowers (direct sow)
Plant now
- Tomatoes (transplants)
- Peppers (transplants)
- Bush beans (direct sow)
- Cucumbers (direct sow)
- Zucchini (direct sow)
- Basil (transplants or direct sow)
- Marigolds (transplants)
- Sunflowers (direct sow)
- Lettuce (heat-tolerant varieties, direct sow)
- Swiss chard (direct sow)
Start indoors
- Eggplants (if not already started)
- Winter squash
- Pumpkins
- Brussels sprouts
- Broccoli (for fall transplant)
Avoid
- Potatoes (best planted earlier in spring)
- Peas (prefer cooler weather, plant earlier)
- Spinach (bolts quickly in heat)
- Cool-season leafy greens (may bolt)
- Root crops like carrots and parsnips (best planted earlier)
Next 2 weeks
- Monitor soil moisture to prevent drying in containers
- Harden off any indoor-started seedlings before transplanting
- Apply mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Start staking or caging tomatoes and peppers
- Watch for pests like aphids and flea beetles
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes directly from seed in May in Boston?
It's best to start tomatoes indoors and transplant in May, as direct sowing outdoors is less reliable due to cooler soil temperatures.
When is the last frost date for Boston, MA?
The average last frost date is typically in mid to late April, so May planting is generally safe for warm-season crops.
How often should I water container plants in May?
Containers dry out faster; water daily or when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during warm spells.
What vegetables grow well in raised beds in May?
Raised beds warm up quickly; plant tomatoes, peppers, beans, cucumbers, and herbs for best results.
Should I fertilize newly planted vegetables in May?
Yes, use a balanced fertilizer or compost to support healthy growth after transplanting or direct sowing.
Next steps
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