Planting calendar
May Planting Guide for Los Angeles Gardens: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
May in Los Angeles is ideal for planting warm-season vegetables and herbs in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. Focus on heat-tolerant crops and start some late-season plants indoors for a fall harvest. Avoid frost-sensitive plants early in the month and prepare for warmer weather.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Basil, Zucchini, Cucumbers, Sweet potatoes, Green beans
Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Basil
- Zucchini
- Cucumbers
- Sweet potatoes
- Green beans
- Sunflowers
- Marigolds
Start indoors
- Winter squash
- Pumpkins
- Melons
- Corn
- Late-season tomatoes
- Chili peppers
- Okra
- Basil (for succession planting)
Avoid
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Lettuce (heat sensitive varieties)
- Spinach
- Peas
- Radishes
- Carrots (slow to mature in heat)
Next 2 weeks
- Monitor soil moisture closely as temperatures rise
- Apply mulch to conserve water and reduce weeds
- Begin staking or caging tomatoes and peppers
- Thin seedlings in containers and raised beds
- Watch for pests like aphids and caterpillars
- Fertilize warm-season crops with balanced fertilizer
- Water deeply but less frequently to encourage strong roots
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes directly in the ground in May in Los Angeles?
Yes, May is a great time to transplant tomatoes outdoors as the risk of frost is minimal and temperatures are warming.
How often should I water raised beds and containers in May?
Water every 2-3 days, adjusting for heat and soil moisture. Containers dry out faster, so check daily.
Is it necessary to fertilize plants in May?
Yes, applying a balanced fertilizer supports vigorous growth during the warm growing season.
What pests should I watch for in May?
Look out for aphids, whiteflies, and caterpillars, which are common in warmer weather.
Can I plant cool-season crops in May in Los Angeles?
It's best to avoid cool-season crops in May as rising temperatures can cause them to bolt or struggle.
Next steps
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