Planting calendar
May Planting Guide for Nashville, TN: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In May, Nashville gardeners can confidently plant warm-season vegetables and flowers in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. Focus on heat-tolerant crops and herbs as frost risk diminishes. This month is ideal for direct sowing and transplanting established seedlings outdoors.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Cucumbers, Beans, Squash, Sweet potatoes, Basil
Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Cucumbers
- Beans
- Squash
- Sweet potatoes
- Basil
- Okra
- Sunflowers
Start indoors
- Fall broccoli
- Fall cabbage
- Fall cauliflower
- Winter kale
- Winter spinach
- Winter lettuce
- Winter radishes
- Herbs like parsley and cilantro
Avoid
- Cool-season crops like peas
- Leafy greens sensitive to heat (e.g., arugula)
- Root crops that prefer cooler soil (e.g., carrots)
- Potatoes (harvest time approaching)
- Planting seeds that require cooler soil temperatures
Next 2 weeks
- Monitor soil moisture carefully in containers
- Harden off any seedlings started indoors before transplanting
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Watch for pests like aphids and caterpillars
- Begin regular fertilization for heavy feeders like tomatoes
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes directly in the ground in May in Nashville?
Yes, May is a safe time to transplant tomato seedlings outdoors after the last frost risk has passed.
Are raised beds better than containers for warm-season crops in May?
Both work well; raised beds warm up faster and drain well, while containers offer flexibility and control over soil quality.
How often should I water container plants in May?
Containers typically need daily watering in warm weather, but always check soil moisture before watering.
When should I start seeds indoors for fall crops in Nashville?
Start fall crop seeds indoors in May to early June to transplant outdoors in late summer.
What are common pests to watch for in May?
Look out for aphids, flea beetles, and caterpillars, especially on young leafy greens and tomatoes.
Next steps
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