Waikato Garden Guide: Vegetables To Plant In May

Waikato Garden Guide: Vegetables To Plant In May

May marks the perfect time to get cool-season crops into the ground here in the Waikato. The soil still holds a bit of warmth, giving seeds a chance to establish themselves before winter really kicks in. This guide is made for Waikato growers keen to make the most of their garden beds over the colder months. Whether you're sowing from seed, transplanting seedlings, or planting out established sprouts, here's your go-to list for what to grow this May in the Waikato.

Greens:

Bok Choi: From seed sow directly into well-drained soil. Space seeds about 20cm apart and thin out once they germinate. From seedlings, plant in full sun or partial shade. Keep well-watered, especially during dry spells. Bok choi is a quick grower, so you can expect harvest in 6-8 weeks. Tip: Protect from slugs and snails.

Kale: From seed sow into seed trays or directly into the garden. Space 40-50cm apart. From seedlings, transplant once they have at least 4 true leaves. Mulch well and feed monthly with a balanced organic fertiliser. Tip: Frost actually sweetens the flavour.

Lettuce: From seed so directly into soil or start in trays. From seedlings, transplant when 4-5cm tall, spacing 15-20cm apart. Regular watering is key to stop lettuce from going bitter. Partial shade can help prevent bolting.

Rocket: From seed sow directly into beds or pots. Sow in rows 15cm apart. From seedlings, transplant gently, as rocket doesn’t like root disturbance. Rocket grows fast and is usually ready to harvest in as little as 4 weeks. Tip: Pick leaves young for best flavour.

Silverbeet & Spinach: From seed sow directly into the ground or in trays. Thin to 30cm spacing. From seedlings, transplant when established, water well after planting. Continue to water regularly and mulch to keep soil moisture even. Tip: Harvest outer leaves to keep plants producing.

Root Veg:

Carrot: From seed sow direct into light, loose soil. Don’t transplant, carrots don’t like root disturbance. Keep soil moist during germination (can take 2-3 weeks). Thin seedlings early to avoid forked roots.

Radish: From seed sow direct in shallow drills. Germinates quickly in cool soil. Harvest young for crisp, sweet roots. Best grown in quick cycles.

Garlic: May is garlic month! Plant individual cloves pointy side up, 5-8cm deep and 15cm apart. Garlic prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Avoid overwatering.

Onions & Leeks: Start seeds in trays now for spring transplanting. From seedlings, transplant carefully with good root contact, spacing 10-15cm apart. Weed regularly and mulch around the base to retain moisture. Feed with a high-potash fertiliser.

Brassicas:

Brussels Sprout: Start in trays early in the month. From seedlings, transplant to a sunny, firm bed with good drainage. Space 50-60cm apart. Stake if needed. Harvest sprouts from the base upward once firm.

Cabbage: From seed sow in trays and transplant after 4-6 weeks. From seedlings, plant in firm soil, spacing 40–60cm depending on variety. Keep soil moist and weed-free. Cover with netting to deter white butterflies.

Cauliflower: From seed start in trays and keep in a sheltered spot. From seedlings, plant 45cm apart in well-prepared beds. Cauliflower needs consistent moisture and feeding to prevent buttoning. Protect from caterpillars.

Herbs:

Parsley: From seed it can be slow to germinate, soak seeds overnight to speed up. From seedlings, transplant to a partly shaded, well-drained area. Water regularly. Will keep growing all winter if kept picked.

Legumes:

Peas: From seed sow directly into the garden 3-5cm deep. Space plants 5-8cm apart. Provide stakes or trellis for climbing varieties. Keep well-watered and weed-free.

Final Tips for May Gardening in the Waikato:

• Soil prep: Add compost or manure to beds before planting.

• Mulching: Helps retain warmth and moisture – especially important as frosts approach.

• Frost protection: Frost cloths, or even a DIY tunnel will help protect tender crops like lettuce and bok choi from the elements.

• Watering: Even in cooler weather, keep an eye on soil moisture. Water in the morning to avoid overnight dampness.

Wrap up:

May is all about setting your garden up for strong winter growth and hearty cold-season harvests. If you put in a bit of effort now, you’ll be rewarded with crisp greens and robust root veg. Happy planting and as always, feel free to reach out for a quote if you need a helping hand.