Some May garden habits are a trap — luring you in with good intentions , then sabotaging your entire summertime . You think you ’re helping . You ’re pruning like a professional , overwatering with love , scattering mulch like confetti . And all the while , your garden is mutely screaming , “ Please stop . ” This calendar month is tricky . What work in April might wreck your blooms now . And what seems helpful today might stalk you in July . But do n’t panic . With a few small trade — and a willingness to break up with outdated advice — you may put off the equipment casualty and keep your garden glowing . Here ’s what to skip in May , what to try instead , and how to stay one footstep ahead of garden ruefulness .

Avoid Overwatering

lacrimation is a must , but too much can swim your industrial plant . First - fourth dimension gardeners often think more water means more emergence . Think again ! Soggy ascendent are dysphoric roots , leading to rot and decay . rather , let your plants rest by irrigate deeply but less frequently . assure the soil with your fingers ; if it ’s moist an column inch down , hold off on the lachrymation can for a bit . This method mimics nature ’s rhythm , maintain your garden goodish and thriving . glad theme , glad shoot !

Don’t Prune Spring-Flowering Shrubs

It might seem alluring to snaffle those pruners and shape your garden . However , pruning spring - flowering bush in May peril cut off bud that have yet to bloom . Wait until after their showy display to prune back any wild growth . Let nature ’s spectacle blossom first . This forbearance compensate off in a splendid floral presentation , adding semblance and beauty to your garden . Trust the process , and let your bush shine in all their natural glory . Then , when the time is right , you’re able to shape them to your substance ’s content !

Skip Fertilizing Newly Planted Seeds

Fertilizing new seeds might seem like a rise , but it ’s a rookie mistake . Young seedlings need time to establish roots before handling extra nutrient . Over - fertilizing can burn these tender sprout . Instead , provide them with nutrient - rich territory from the start , and countenance them to develop naturally for a few weeks . Watch them sprout and debase towards the sun , embrace their environment without extra helper . Once they ’re established , you’re able to consider dim - freeing fertilizer to support their ongoing ontogeny . Let nature nurture first !

Avoid Planting Too Early

Ah , the excitement of planting ! But beware of stand out the gun . Early May can still host a rogue frost , prejudicious tender plant . Check your local frost dates , and plant tender - time of year crop only when the threat has passed . Use rowing covers if you ’re eager to get start ahead of time , protecting those precious seedling from unexpected chills . There ’s knockout in patience , ensuring that your garden will flourish without the risk of frostbite . programme wisely , and let your garden bloom in its perfect prison term .

Don’t Ignore Pest Control

Pests , the uninvited guests in your garden political party ! Ignoring them can lead to catastrophe . observe for signs of infestation , like masticate leaves or unusual muck . Introduce beneficial insects or instinctive roadblock to keep the pest at bay . Companion planting is another efficacious method , produce a garden ecosystem that deters pests naturally . supervise often to catch problem ahead of time . A little watchfulness goes a recollective means in protecting your precious plants , ensuring a bountiful harvest without the creepy crawlies !

Skip Mowing Wet Grass

The lawn ’s vocation , but look — mowing loaded locoweed is a no - go . moisture blades clump together , leading to uneven cut and possible fungus . give up the grass to dry after a rain cascade or morning dew , then mow to your heart and soul ’s content . This recitation go on your lawn goodly , looking lush and inviting . The smell of freshly cut grass is a reward , and your lawn will thank you with vibrant green blade . Keep it keen but retrieve , patience is a chastity in lawn care too !

Avoid Using Pesticides in Windy Weather

Spraying pesticides on a airy day is like switch caution to the wind — literally ! The chemicals can tramp , feign areas you did n’t intend . await for a calm twenty-four hours to target your plague problem directly . This method ensures that you ’re treating the ripe field , preserve your garden sizable and the surroundings safe . Precision is cardinal , and so is value your neighbors ’ gardens . The right day will number , and your careful approach will make all the difference . well-chosen , sizeable horticulture awaits !

Don’t Neglect Mulching

Mulching is more than just a fetch up touching ; it ’s a protective stratum for your garden . ignore this footmark can run to moisture red and sess invasion . Add a stratum of organic mulch , like wood cow chip or drinking straw , to keep wet and keep those pestiferous weeds at bay . This nurturing blanket isolate the land , maintaining a stable environment for roots . It ’s like tuck your plants in for a snug nap , promote them to develop warm and healthy . Your garden will give thanks you !

Don’t Forget to Deadhead Flowers

Deadheading — it ’s not just a gardening chore , it ’s a rejuvenation ritual for your efflorescence . Forgetting this can lead to less vibrant prime . By dispatch spent prime , you encourage new growth and prolong the flowering time period . This simple act of care keep your garden lively and coloured throughout the season . espouse the cycle of lifetime , and honour your garden with the care it deserve . It ’s a satisfying task that link up you to the calendar method of birth control of outgrowth and renewal .

Avoid Planting in Wet Soil

Wet soil and newfangled plants are a mucky equal . plant in such conditions can press the stain , hindering root development . Wait for the soil to dry out a bit , ensuring it crumbles nicely in your deal . This allow roots to spread with ease , giving your works a strong start . The right planting conditions are key to a palmy garden . Remember , patience is part of the nurseryman ’s toolkit , ensuring that every plant life gets the upright start possible . Your garden will flourish with this aware access .

What Not to Do in Your Garden This May (And What to Do Instead)

Avoid Overwatering

© Southern Living

Avoid Overwatering

Don’t Prune Spring-Flowering Shrubs

© Southern Living

Don’t Prune Spring-Flowering Shrubs

Skip Fertilizing Newly Planted Seeds

© Gardening Know How

Skip Fertilizing Newly Planted Seeds

Avoid Planting Too Early

© Better Homes & Gardens

Avoid Planting Too Early

Don’t Ignore Pest Control

© Alabama Cooperative Extension System –

Don’t Ignore Pest Control

Skip Mowing Wet Grass

© My Home Turf

Skip Mowing Wet Grass

Avoid Using Pesticides in Windy Weather

© Tom’s Guide

Avoid Using Pesticides in Windy Weather

Don’t Neglect Mulching

© Swan Hose

Don’t Neglect Mulching

Don’t Forget to Deadhead Flowers

© STIHL Blog

Don’t Forget to Deadhead Flowers

Avoid Planting in Wet Soil

© RHS

Avoid Planting in Wet Soil