Five good things to plant in Melbourne this May

If you're a Melbourne gardener wondering what to plant in May, you’re in luck. Autumn in Melbourne is a prime time to plant cool-season crops that thrive in our climate. Whether you’ve got a backyard veggie bed, a few pots on the balcony, or access to a community garden, there’s plenty to grow right now.

Here are five great things to plant in Melbourne this May:

1. Broad Beans

Why plant them now?Broad beans love Melbourne’s cool autumn soil. Sown in May, they’ll establish over winter and reward you with a spring harvest. They’re hardy, easy to grow, and even improve your soil by fixing nitrogen.

Growing tip:Sow directly into the ground in a sunny spot. Support them with stakes as they grow taller.

2. Onions

Why plant them now?May is a great time to plant onions in Melbourne—especially brown, white, or red varieties. Onions grow slowly and need a long, cool season, so get them in now for a late spring or early summer harvest.

Growing tip:Plant onion seedlings or sets in full sun and well-drained soil. Space them out to give bulbs room to grow.

3. Peas

Why plant them now?Snow peas and shelling peas love autumn in Melbourne. They grow best in the cooler months and reward you with crisp, sweet pods that are perfect straight from the vine.

Growing tip:Give them something to climb—like a trellis or mesh—and plant in well-drained soil with a bit of compost worked in.

4. Silverbeet (Swiss Chard)

Why plant it now?Silverbeet is a resilient leafy green that produces through winter and into spring. It’s super versatile—great for pies, soups and stir-fries—and adds colour to your veggie patch.

Growing tip:Plant in a sunny or part-shade spot. Harvest the outer leaves first to keep the plant producing.

5. Coriander

Why plant it now?Unlike in summer (when it bolts), coriander thrives in cooler weather. May is the perfect time to grow this fragrant herb in Melbourne for fresh, homegrown flavour in your cooking.

Growing tip:Grow from seed in a sunny spot and keep the soil moist. Sow new seeds every few weeks for a steady supply.

Bonus Tip: Autumn Leaves Are Compost Gold

Take advantage of Melbourne’s autumn leaf drop! Dry leaves are rich in carbon and ideal for compost. Mix with kitchen scraps or grass clippings to feed your soil and future crops.

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