With May now here, many gardeners will be preparing their outdoor spaces for warmer weather and the summer season.

This month, gardeners should concentrate on pruning, refreshing their containers, planting and sowing seeds.

It’s also the perfect time to give gardens a refresh after weeks of wet, cold weather.

With this in mind, Dobbies’ plant buyer, Nigel Lawton, has outlined his top gardening tips for May including what to sow and plant.

What to grow in May

Summer bedding

Nigel said May is the best month for planting summer bedding plants which includes patio containers and hanging baskets, beds and borders.

Planting these key areas up now will ensure you have a “vibrant display that will last right through summer”, according to Nigel.

Nigel suggested planting geraniums as they are both vibrant and low maintenance.

Seeds to sow

This month, gardeners should sow cornflowers, sunflowers and daisies.

He also suggested sowing seeds for crops such as cucumbers, broccoli, peas, spring onions, and courgettes.

Now is also an ideal time to sow quick-growing crops such as salads and spinach which can be sown every 10 days for a continuous supply of leaves.

Flowers to plant

Roses, peonies, and gladiolus are some of the best flowers to plant in May.

Nigel explains: “Roses and peonies will fill your garden with sweet summer fragrances, while gladiolus is ideal for adding to your cut flower bouquets.”

Those living in cooler areas in Northern England and Scotland will need to keep an eye out for late frosts.

Frost can affect many plants and damage tender plants, in particular.