Planting calendar
May Planting Guide for Philadelphia, PA: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground Gardens
May is an ideal month to plant warm-season vegetables and flowers in Philadelphia, PA. You can transplant seedlings outdoors and sow heat-loving crops directly in raised beds, containers, or in-ground gardens. Focus on sun-loving plants while keeping an eye on late spring frosts.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Beans (bush and pole), Cucumbers, Squash (summer and winter), Corn, Basil
Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Beans (bush and pole)
- Cucumbers
- Squash (summer and winter)
- Corn
- Basil
- Marigolds
- Zinnias
Start indoors
- Pumpkins
- Melons
- Broccoli (for fall harvest)
- Cabbage (for fall harvest)
- Cauliflower
- Brussels sprouts
- Celery
- Herbs like parsley and cilantro
Avoid
- Leafy greens like lettuce and spinach (bolt risk in heat)
- Peas (best planted early spring)
- Potatoes (late planting reduces yield)
- Root crops like carrots and beets (wait cooler soil)
- Delicate seedlings without hardening off
Next 2 weeks
- Harden off indoor seedlings before transplanting
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture
- Monitor for pests like aphids and flea beetles
- Water consistently, especially containers
- Stake tall plants like tomatoes and beans
- Thin seedlings to avoid overcrowding
- Apply balanced fertilizer as needed
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes directly in the ground in May in Philadelphia?
Yes, May is generally safe to transplant tomatoes outdoors after the last frost date, provided soil temperatures are warm enough.
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 days.
Is it necessary to harden off seedlings before planting outside?
Yes, gradually exposing seedlings to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days reduces transplant shock.
What vegetables should I avoid planting in May in Philadelphia?
Avoid cool-season crops like peas and leafy greens, which bolt quickly in warm weather, and root crops that prefer cooler soil.
Can I start pumpkins indoors in May for a fall harvest?
Yes, starting pumpkins indoors mid-May allows transplanting in late May or early June for a successful fall harvest.
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