Gardening Jobs for May

May 6, 2026 |Ella Dooly

May is when the garden finds its rhythm. Growth is steady, colour is building, and everything feels a little more certain.

There is a sense of momentum now. What was planted earlier in spring is beginning to establish, and new planting can settle quickly as the soil warms. It is a rewarding month, but it also asks for consistency. Small, regular jobs will keep everything balanced as the season moves forward.

If you have recently sent or received a tree or plant gift, May is where that gift begins to feel real. With a little care now, it will settle in and grow with confidence through the months ahead.

May garden tips at a glance

Plant trees, roses and summer containers.
Water regularly, especially new plants.
Mulch to retain moisture as temperatures rise.
Prune after spring flowering where needed.
Keep on top of weeds and early pests.

Native trees and new growth

By May, native trees are fully waking. Leaves are unfurling, and soft new growth is beginning to stretch outwards.

If you have received a tree gift, it is best to plant it as soon as possible so roots can establish before summer. Choose a sunny or lightly sheltered spot and ensure good drainage. Trees can be planted directly into the ground or into a deep container, depending on your space.

Explore suitable options in our tree gifts collection, chosen to grow well in UK gardens and spaces.

Rose bushes in May

Roses begin to move quickly now. New shoots appear, and the structure you shaped earlier in spring starts to fill out.

Plant your rose into a sunny, open position where air can move freely. Whether in a border or container, give it space to settle and grow.

You can explore suitable options within our rose bush gifts collection.

Regular garden care

Keep things moving

Mow lawns regularly, keeping the height slightly higher in dry spells.
Remove weeds early before they take hold.
Open greenhouse vents on warm days to allow airflow.

Consistency matters more than intensity in May. A little attention each week keeps everything balanced.

Soil care and mulching

Hold on to moisture

Add compost or well-rotted manure to boost soil health.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and reduce weeds.
Keep mulch clear of stems to avoid rot.

As temperatures rise, soil can dry more quickly. Mulching now helps carry that moisture forward into summer.

Watering wisely

Water early in the morning or later in the evening.
Use rainwater where possible.
Keep newly planted trees and shrubs well watered.

New plants are still establishing their roots. Consistent watering now makes all the difference later.

Pruning in May

Shape after flowering

Prune spring flowering shrubs once blooms fade.
Trim evergreen hedges lightly to maintain shape.
Cut back lavender lightly to encourage bushy growth.

Fruit trees such as those in our fruit trees collection can be gently pruned after flowering to maintain structure and airflow.

Potted plants and containers

Check pots daily in warm weather as they dry out quickly.
Top up compost or repot if roots are tight.
Add mulch to retain moisture.

Raising pots slightly off the ground can help improve drainage during heavy rain.

Managing pests naturally

Check new growth for aphids and remove early.
Encourage birds and beneficial insects into the garden.
Avoid chemical treatments where possible.

A healthy garden tends to balance itself when given time and care.

What to plant in May

May is ideal for planting summer beds, borders and containers.

Plant summer flowering varieties once frost risk has passed.
Sow wildflower seeds to support pollinators.
Establish new container displays for patios and balconies.

If you are looking for something long lasting, evergreen options from our evergreen trees collection provide structure all year round.

What’s looking good

May is full of fresh colour and scent. Early roses begin to form buds, and many trees settle into strong, leafy growth.

Lavender is beginning to establish and will soon bring fragrance and calm to outdoor spaces. You can explore more in our May Tree of the Month feature.