May · Late spring
What to sow in May in Philadelphia
53 crops are in their window this month in Philadelphia — timed to your local frost dates.
Last frost≈ 12 Apr
First frost≈ 11 Nov
Frost-free days194 days
May averages58°–76°F
Vegetables
39 in season
Amaranth Greens
Direct sow · pinch tips often for a steady flush of tender greens
Armenian Cucumber
Direct sow · wait for warm soil; trellis for straighter fruit
Artichoke
Start indoors · seedlings need a cold snap to set buds in year one
Arugula
Direct sow · sow every 2-3 weeks for a steady peppery harvest
Asparagus
Plant crowns · resist harvesting until the second or third spring
Herbs
9 in season
Basil
Start indoors · loves heat, don't rush it outside before frost
Cilantro
Direct sow · bolts fast in heat, sow small batches often
Dill
Direct sow · taproot resents transplanting, sow direct
Epazote
Direct sow · cut flower heads early or it self-seeds everywhere
Fenugreek (Methi)
Direct sow · ready to cut in under a month; sow again for more
Fruit
5 in season
Blueberries
Plant bushes · needs acidic soil and a second variety to pollinate
Ground Cherries
Transplant seedlings · let ripe fruit drop; husks turn tan and papery
Melon (Cantaloupe)
Direct sow · warm soil is key; try black plastic mulch to help
Strawberries
Plant runners · pinch off first-year flowers for stronger plants
Watermelon
Direct sow · give vines plenty of room and consistent water