In May, the weather in Wisconsin starts to warm up, but it can still be a bit cool. This makes it a great time to plant cool-weather crops that thrive in these conditions. Some crops that you can plant in Wisconsin in May include lettuce, spinach, chard, parsnip, onion sets, beets, carrots, kohlrabi, mustard, turnips, radishes, peas, parsley, and potatoes.
When planting these cool-weather crops, it’s important to ensure that the soil temperatures are at least 45 degrees. This will provide the optimal conditions for germination and growth. You can use a soil thermometer to check the temperature before planting.
Before planting, it’s a good idea to prepare the soil by removing any weeds and adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. This will help improve the soil structure and provide essential nutrients for the plants.
When planting lettuce, spinach, and chard, you can sow the seeds directly into the soil. Make sure to follow the recommended spacing and planting depth for each crop. It’s also a good idea to water the soil before planting to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
For crops like parsnips, beets, carrots, kohlrabi, mustard, turnips, radishes, and peas, you can sow the seeds directly into the soil as well. These crops prefer well-drained soil, so make sure to remove any rocks or debris that could impede root growth.
Onion sets can also be planted in May. These are small onion bulbs that have been started from seed and are ready to be planted. You can plant them directly into the soil, spacing them according to the recommended guidelines.
If you prefer, you can also plant onion plants, which are young onion seedlings that have been grown in containers. These can be planted in mid-May, along with crops like snap beans, pole beans, and sweet corn. These crops prefer warmer soil temperatures, so it’s best to wait until the soil has had a chance to warm up a bit.
When planting snap beans, pole beans, and sweet corn, make sure to provide support for the plants as they grow. This can be done with trellises or stakes to keep the plants upright and prevent them from falling over.
May is a great time to start planting a variety of crops in Wisconsin. The cool temperatures provide ideal conditions for cool-weather crops, while the slightly warmer weather allows for the planting of warmer-weather crops like beans and corn. By following the recommended planting guidelines and providing the necessary care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest throughout the season.
