May is prime warm-season planting time in mild-winter zones, with soil temperatures rising and growth accelerating. This is the month to get main-season crops established outdoors, keep up with succession sowing, and set up supports before vines and tall plants take off. Watch moisture as days warm, mulch to hold soil moisture, and keep an eye out for the first big flush of pests as the garden hits its stride.

Indoors (fresh harvests):

• Microgreens: peas, broccoli, sunflowers, arugula
• Sprouts: alfalfa, broccoli, radish, mung
• Herbs & greens under lights: chives, parsley, mint

Transplants to move outdoors (harden first): pepper, tomato, eggplant, melons, basil, okra — these should go out early May if not already in the ground

Crops that can be directly sown outdoors in May: beans, corn, cucumber, squash, melons, okra, sunflower, basil, dill, sweet potato slips. Succession sow beets, carrots, and radishes early in the month before heat sets in.

Cover crops: buckwheat, cowpeas, sorghum-sudangrass

Note: Warm-season crops should be going directly outdoors now, not starting under lights.

Tip: An Olympia, WA zone 8 is very different from a Jackson, MS zone 8. Consider checking with your state Extension Service office for more specific recommendations and guidelines.

Use your USDA zone as a guide. Microclimates matter — coastal/urban spots run warmer; high elevation runs colder.