The Ultimate May Planting Guide for Zone 8b

May 5

3 min read

From Your Friends at Manning’s Feed and Seed

May is a magical time for gardeners in Zone 8b. The soil is warm, the days are long, and nature is bursting with life. Whether you’re a beginner sowing your first seeds or a seasoned homesteader expanding your beds, May offers a golden window to plant crops that will thrive all summer long.

We’ve rounded up everything you need to know to make the most of your garden this month—including what to plant, how to plant it, and the products you can find right here at Manning’s Feed and Seed to help your garden flourish.

Vegetables to Plant in May

Direct Sow or Transplant:In May, you can both direct sow seeds into the ground and transplant young seedlings—depending on the crop.

Direct Sow Seeds:

Okra – Loves hot soil. Soak seeds overnight to help with germination.
Cucumbers – Direct sow into moist soil. Trellis for space-saving and air circulation.
Summer Squash & Zucchini – Plant 1" deep in hills or rows. Leave room—they grow fast!
Southern Peas (Black-eyed, Crowder, Cream Peas) – Ideal for hot climates and low-maintenance.
Corn – Plant in blocks (not rows) for best pollination. Needs plenty of water and nitrogen.
Green Beans (Bush or Pole) – Plant every 2–3 weeks through June for a steady harvest.

Transplant Now:

Tomatoes – Use sturdy transplants. Bury deeply (up to first set of leaves) for strong roots.
Peppers – Bell, banana, or hot peppers should go in with support to avoid toppling.
Eggplant – Loves full sun. Space plants at least 18" apart.

Root Crops You Can Still Sneak In

Sweet Potatoes – Plant slips, not seeds. They love sandy, loose soil and full sun.
Beets & Carrots – Early May is your last window. Sow thickly and thin seedlings for best growth.
Radishes – Fast-growing. Great for filling space between slower crops.

Herbs to Plant in May

Most herbs do well in warm weather and are perfect for raised beds, containers, or garden borders.

Basil – Needs sun and warmth. Pinch blooms to keep leaves tender.
Cilantro – Plant in a shadier area—it bolts fast in the heat!
Dill – Great for pollinators and pickling.
Parsley – Prefers moist, fertile soil. Slow to start but worth it.
Oregano, Thyme, Sage, Lemongrass – Perennial herbs that love sun and do great in pots or borders.

Flowers to Plant Now (for Beauty & Pollinators)

Zinnias – Easy to direct sow. Blooms all summer and attracts butterflies.
Sunflowers – Choose dwarf for containers or mammoth for the wow factor.
Marigolds – Companion plant with tomatoes and peppers to deter pests.
Cosmos – Thrive in poor soil. Blooms until frost.
Nasturtiums – Edible flowers that repel aphids and add color to salads.

Companion Planting Ideas for a Healthier Garden

Pairing plants together can deter pests, improve flavor, and maximize space.

Tomatoes + Basil + Marigolds – Boost flavor and reduce hornworms and aphids.
Cucumbers + Dill + Sunflowers – Dill deters pests; sunflowers provide partial shade.
Beans + Corn + Squash (Three Sisters Method) – A Native American technique where each plant supports the other.

Soil, Fertilizer, & Mulch Tips

Soil Temperature: Aim for 65–75°F for most warm-season crops.
Fertilizer Needs: Heavy feeders (like tomatoes and corn) benefit from compost or a slow-release balanced fertilizer. Stop by Manning’s for locally trusted organic and conventional options.
Mulching: Add straw, leaves, or pine bark to retain moisture and reduce weeds.
Watering: Deeply 2–3 times a week depending on rainfall. Avoid shallow, daily watering.

May Maintenance Tips

Watch for Pests: Aphids, squash bugs, and cutworms are active now. We carry trusted organic pest control solutions.
Weed Early: Don't let weeds compete for water and nutrients.
Succession Plant: Keep planting every 2–3 weeks for consistent harvests of beans, greens, and herbs.