Planting calendar
May Planting Guide for San Antonio, TX: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In May, San Antonio gardeners can plant heat-tolerant vegetables and herbs in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. Focus on crops that thrive in warm weather while avoiding frost-sensitive plants. This month is ideal for tomatoes, peppers, and beans.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Okra, Sweet potatoes, Beans (bush and pole), Basil, Cucumbers
Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes
- Beans (bush and pole)
- Basil
- Cucumbers
- Squash
- Malabar spinach
Start indoors
- Pumpkins
- Winter squash
- Melons
- Corn
- Sunflowers
- Watermelon
- Sweet corn
- Okra (if not planted directly)
- Herbs like dill and cilantro
- Tomatillos
Avoid
- Cool-season crops like broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Brussels sprouts
- Spinach
- Lettuce
- Peas
- Radishes
- Carrots (late plantings)
- Potatoes
- Kale
Next 2 weeks
- Monitor soil moisture closely to prevent heat stress
- Mulch raised beds and containers to retain moisture
- Start trellising beans and cucumbers
- Fertilize tomatoes and peppers with balanced fertilizer
- Thin seedlings in containers and raised beds
- Watch for pests like aphids and caterpillars
- Water early in the morning or late evening
- Harden off any indoor seedlings before transplanting
- Rotate crops to prevent soil-borne diseases
- Keep an eye on weather forecasts for heat waves
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes directly in the ground in May in San Antonio?
Yes, May is ideal for transplanting tomatoes outdoors as the risk of frost is minimal and temperatures are warming.
How often should I water raised beds and containers during May?
Water daily or as needed to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during hot spells.
Are there any vegetables I should avoid planting in May?
Avoid cool-season crops like broccoli and lettuce as they will struggle in the warming soil and air temperatures.
When should I start seeds indoors for fall crops?
In May, start seeds indoors for fall crops like pumpkins and winter squash to transplant later in summer.
What are common pests to watch for in May?
Look out for aphids, caterpillars, and spider mites, which can increase with warmer weather.
Next steps
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