Planting calendar
May Planting Guide for Los Angeles Gardens: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In May, Los Angeles gardeners can confidently plant warm-season vegetables and herbs in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. This is an ideal time to sow heat-tolerant crops and transplant seedlings as the risk of frost is minimal. Focus on sun-loving plants that thrive in the region's Mediterranean climate.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Basil, Zucchini, Cucumbers, Green beans, Sweet potatoes
Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Basil
- Zucchini
- Cucumbers
- Green beans
- Sweet potatoes
- Melons
- Okra
Start indoors
- Winter squash
- Pumpkins
- Broccoli (for fall transplant)
- Cauliflower (for fall transplant)
- Cabbage (for fall transplant)
- Kale (for fall transplant)
- Brussels sprouts (for fall transplant)
- Herbs like parsley and cilantro
- Chard
- Lettuce (for fall transplant)
Avoid
- Cool-season crops like peas and spinach (may bolt quickly)
- Root crops that prefer cooler soil like carrots
- Leafy greens that bolt in heat such as arugula
- Potatoes (best planted earlier in spring)
- Radishes (may become woody in heat)
- Beets (slow growth in warm soil)
- Broccoli and cauliflower direct sow (better started indoors now)
- Garlic (harvested in late spring, avoid planting now)
- Strawberries (best planted in late winter or early spring)
- Asparagus (best planted earlier in the year)
Next 2 weeks
- Transplant warm-season seedlings outdoors
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture
- Start monitoring for pests like aphids and whiteflies
- Begin regular watering schedules, especially in containers
- Fertilize tomatoes and peppers with balanced fertilizer
- Thin seedlings in raised beds for proper spacing
- Prune early-season herbs to encourage growth
- Stake tall plants like tomatoes and beans
- Prepare trellises for cucumbers and melons
- Keep soil moist but avoid waterlogging
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes directly in the ground in May in Los Angeles?
Yes, May is an ideal time to transplant tomato seedlings outdoors in Los Angeles as the risk of frost is minimal and soil temperatures are warm.
Should I water my container plants daily in May?
Containers dry out faster, so check soil moisture daily and water when the top inch feels dry, especially as temperatures rise in May.
Is it too late to start cool-season crops in May?
Cool-season crops generally do not perform well when planted in May due to increasing heat; it’s best to start them indoors now for fall planting.
How can I prevent my plants from overheating in May?
Use shade cloth during peak afternoon sun, mulch to retain soil moisture, and water early in the morning or late in the evening.
What pests should I watch for in May in Los Angeles gardens?
Common pests include aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites; inspect plants regularly and use organic controls as needed.
Next steps
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