Although the spring is approaching the end, the planting season in Lithuania has not yet ended. May is one of the most important months for both beginners and experienced gardeners, especially those planning vegetable growing in open ground. Even after the traditional sowing period, many plants can still be successfully planted by the end of May. The key is to consider the temperature of the soil, the prevailing weather conditions and choose the right, earlier or fast maturing varieties.
When to start sowing and planting?
The most important indicator is the soil temperature. Most heat -loving plants require at least +10-15 ° C, while frost -resistant plants can be sown earlier when the soil warms up to +5-8 ° C.
Although at the beginning of May there are still individual night frost in some places in Lithuania, the weather is favorable for even more sensitive cultures – especially in southern, middle and Samogitian regions.
What else can be planted by the end of May?
Below are a list of main vegetables and herbs, which can be sown or planted in open ground at the end of May.
Cucumbers
Heat -loving culture. Cucumbers are not recommended to sow in cold soil – the seeds may not only germinate but also rot. Planting should only be used when the soil temperature reaches at least +15 ° C. Early to medium early varieties are recommended, especially if planted in late May.
Zucchini, pumpkins
Warming up is a good time to plant zucchini and edible pumpkins. Both zucchini and pumpkins germinate quickly in warm weather. Early varieties allow you to expect harvest before the beginning of autumn.
Melons and watermelons
Although it is not traditional to grow these cultures in Lithuania, they are increasingly planted in amateur gardens, especially in the southern part of the country. Before sowing or planting sprouts, it is necessary to ensure that the soil is sufficiently warmed and the coming weather will be steadily warm.
Beetroot
Traditional Lithuanian culture, which is perfect for sowing in May. In the past, beets started to sow in collective farms only from May 9th. It is recommended to sow varieties that are distinguished during the shorter vegetation period if the harvest is desired at the end of the summer.
Carrots
It is not only early spring that can be sown – the second proper term is mid -May or end. Early varieties should be selected and sufficient moisture germination.
Radishes
Radishes are sown in several stages from early spring to early summer. They can still be sown at the end of May, especially if the fast -maturing hybrids are selected.
Onions
If not planting earlier – onions can still be planted by the end of May. It is advisable to soak the onions before planting in water for 10 to 12 hours, which stimulates germination.
Salad, dill, parsley, coriander, sorrel
It is a culture that does not require high temperatures. At least +5 ° C for soil temperatures and sufficient moisture, they germinate successfully even when sown. It is recommended to mulch or cover with agrofilm to preserve moisture and help the seedlings develop.
Early cabbage
By the end of May, early cabbage sprouts can be planted in the open soil. Planting later than usual, the harvest can be harvested in July or August.
Tomatoes and peppers
These cultures are planted only with sprouts. Lithuania often has to wait until the end of May or even early June, until the likelihood of frost is reduced. It is recommended to plant sprouts at warmer microclimate or use coverings – tunnels, film or agrofilm.
Basil
Basil is extremely sensitive to cold. Seeds can only be sown when the weather is completely thawed and the nights become steadily warm – about +18-20 ° C. Early sowing is rarely successful because the basil is rapidly disappearing at low temperatures.
Although the end of May is considered to be in the late period for sowing or planting some cultures, properly selected species and varieties and, according to soil and weather conditions, can be expected to be expected. At the moment, it is especially important to use early, rapidly maturing varieties and keep in mind the need to water – the soil often dries quickly in May, especially in lightweight soils.
Late spring is not the end, but the ability to supplement the garden with fertile cultures. If you haven’t been able to sow yet, it is really too late to act.
Photo @canva
I am Jovita, one of the authors of Hitas.lt articles. From an early age, I like to cook and I am glad that my mother allowed me to experiment in the kitchen. Favorite dishes are undoubtedly desserts. I also like to “spin” at home, so I try to give readers not only fun recipes, but also useful tips for housework.
