Zone 5 Gardening: What Vegetables to Plant in May
Here’s your guide to what vegetables to plant in Zone 5 in May, including what to direct sow from seed and what to start from transplants.
Spring is finally in full swing here in Zone 5, and May is one of the most exciting months for gardeners! The ground has thawed, the risk of frost is nearly behind us, and it’s time to get serious about planting that garden.
What vegetables to plant in Zone 5 in May
Whether you’re working with raised beds, traditional rows, or a cozy backyard homestead garden, knowing what to plant—and when—is key to a thriving harvest.
I don’t know about you, but as soon as the weather is sunny and warm, I want to play in the garden! But, I’ve learned throughout the years of growing in zone 5 here in Nebraska that I must be patient! If I want all of my warm season crops to survive, I must wait until the end of May to plant.
And that usually means to wait until Memorial Day or the week after.
🌱 Direct Sow These Seeds in May
Many vegetables grow best when planted straight into the garden. As the soil warms in May, it’s the perfect time to sow these hardy crops. Here’s a quick guide to what you should direct sow this month…
Cool-Season Crops (Early May)
These veggies can handle cooler soil and are best planted early in the month:
- Carrots
- Beets
- Radishes
- Turnips
- Parsnips
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Swiss chard
- Peas (best planted early May)
- Kale
- Mustard greens
- Arugula
💡 Tip: Sow leafy greens every 2 weeks for a steady harvest through early summer.
Bonus tip—direct sow these flower seeds in May:
- sunflowers
- zinnias
- cosmos
- marigolds
- common poppy
- nasturtium
- calendula
- cornflowers
🌻 Related: Creating a Cut Flower Garden (in a raised bed)
Warm-Season Crops (Mid to Late May)
Once the soil warms to about 60°F and frost is no longer a threat, it’s time for the heat-lovers:
- Bush beans & pole beans
- Corn
- Cucumbers
- Zucchini & summer squash
- Pumpkins
- Melons (like cantaloupe & watermelon)
- Winter squash
These crops don’t like cold feet, so wait until after your last frost date—usually mid-May for most Zone 5 gardeners.
🌿 Best Vegetables to Plant from Transplants in May
Some veggies need a head start indoors because they take longer to mature or are sensitive to cold. These are best grown from transplants and set out in May:
Warm-Season Transplants (Mid to Late May)
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplant
- Celery
🕓 Wait until nighttime temps are consistently above 50°F to transplant tender crops like tomatoes and peppers.
Cool-Season Transplants (Early May)
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Onions (from sets or starts)
- Leeks
These crops can be planted earlier in May while it’s still a bit cool, especially if you’re growing under row covers or in raised beds.
👩🌾 May Garden Tips for Zone 5
- Harden off transplants before planting by gradually exposing them to outdoor weather over 5–7 days.
- Add compost or aged manure before planting to enrich your soil.
- Mulch around seedlings to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Keep watering consistent, especially during germination and transplanting.
- Use succession planting for salad greens and radishes to extend your harvest.
Start Your Garden Strong
Planting your Zone 5 garden in May is the start of an abundant season of homegrown food and simple living. Whether you’re just starting your homestead journey or expanding your vegetable garden this year, use this guide to help you grow confidently.
→ Looking for more help planning your garden? Leave a comment below and let us know!
Happy planting!
