Planting calendar
May Planting Guide for Washington, DC: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In May, Washington, DC gardeners can confidently plant warm-season vegetables and flowers outdoors in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. This is the ideal time to transplant seedlings and sow heat-loving crops after the last frost risk has passed. Focus on tomatoes, peppers, beans, and herbs for a productive growing season.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Beans (bush and pole), Cucumbers, Squash, Eggplant, Basil, Marigolds
Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Beans (bush and pole)
- Cucumbers
- Squash
- Eggplant
- Basil
- Marigolds
- Zinnias
- Sweet potatoes
Start indoors
- Fall broccoli
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Brussels sprouts
- Kale
- Collards
- Leeks
- Celery
- Herbs like parsley and cilantro
Avoid
- Leafy greens like lettuce and spinach (bolt risk in heat)
- Peas (prefer cooler temps)
- Root crops like carrots and beets (late planting reduces yield)
- Potatoes (best planted earlier in spring)
- Corn (wait until soil warms consistently)
Next 2 weeks
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture
- Harden off any remaining seedlings before transplanting
- Monitor for pests like aphids and caterpillars
- Water consistently, especially in containers
- Support tall plants with stakes or cages
- Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding
- Start succession planting of beans and cucumbers
- Fertilize tomatoes and peppers with balanced feed
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes directly in the ground in May in DC?
Yes, by May the risk of frost has passed in Washington, DC, making it safe to transplant tomatoes outdoors.
Should I water raised beds differently than containers in May?
Containers dry out faster than raised beds, so water them more frequently, ideally daily during warm spells.
Is it too late to start cool-season crops in May?
Generally yes; cool-season crops like lettuce and peas bolt quickly in warm weather, so it's better to avoid planting them now.
How can I protect my plants from late spring pests?
Regularly inspect plants for pests, use row covers if needed, and encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs.
What soil preparation is best for May planting?
Ensure soil is well-drained and enriched with compost; raised beds and containers benefit from fresh potting mix or amended soil.
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