In May, especially during the long holiday weekend, the “hot season” begins in central Russia for all summer residents. The earth has already fully awakened and thawed, and the nights have become warm enough to plant seedlings and sow seeds without fear.
Many gardeners believe that the lunar calendar influences how plants take root and what the resulting harvest is.
Moon phases in May 2026
Here's how this month's highlights break down:
- May 1 – full moon (better to rest)
- May 2–15 — The moon is waning (it’s time for root vegetables and everything that grows “down”)
- May 16 – new moon (don't plant anything)
- May 17–30 — Waxing moon (great for crops that produce top to bottom yields)
- May 31 – full moon again (pause)
Favorable days for major crops
To make your planning easier, here is a list of good dates for the most popular vegetables:
- tomatoes – May 2, 11, 12, 19, 20, 28, 29, 30;
- pepper – May 2, 11, 12, 19, 20, 28, 29, 30;
- cucumbers – May 2, 11, 12, 19, 20, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30.
Advice
On unfavorable days, such as the full moon or new moon, it is better not to touch the plants at all. Do some weeding, mulching, or just take a day off. And if you can’t wait to tinker in the soil, devote this time to loosening or preparing the beds, but without planting.
