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May

Sow maize (sweetcorn), runner beans and french beans indoors/greenhouse in modules ready for planting when risk of frost has passed. Maize should be planted out as a block of at least 12 plants for good wind pollination.
Sow pumpkin, squash, courgette and cucumber, seeds under cover.
Plant greenhouse tomato plants in beds or growing bags.
Sow beetroot, chard, carrot, broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts and calabrese seeds directly into the ground.
Remove strawberry runners so that plants invest in fruit rather than offsets.
Prune spring flowering shrubs, such as Japanese quince (Chaenomeles) and forsythia once the flowers have dropped.
Plant out dahlia tubers after risk of frost has passed.
Harden off tender plants raised indoors or under glass.
Remember to check for birds nests before you start any hedge cutting or pruning.

JeffIf you think there is something that should be added to this month's events or to-do list, please let me know.

Maize seedlings (Zea mays)

For the Upper Nar area, there is usually a risk of frost up until the end of April (source).

Join legions of gardeners and say “no” to the mow this May to help our bees, butterflies, wildlife and us! More information at Plantlife.

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