Why May Is the Most Important Month in Lawn and Garden

For retailers and vendors across the lawn and garden industry, May represents a defining moment in the season. It is the point where preparation turns into performance, and where early momentum is either captured or lost. 

Understanding what makes May so critical can help guide more informed decisions around inventory, merchandising, and customer engagement. 

Peak Demand Meets Ideal Conditions 

Across much of the country, May delivers the most favorable conditions for planting. Warmer soil temperatures, reduced risk of frost, and longer daylight hours all contribute to a noticeable increase in consumer activity. 

For retailers, this translates to: 

• Higher store traffic 

• Increased purchasing frequency 

• Larger average transaction sizes 

It is not simply a busy month. For many businesses, it is the most productive period of the entire season. 

A Unique Opportunity to Reach New Customers 

Seasonal moments such as Mother’s Day bring a broader range of shoppers into garden centers, including customers who may not typically engage with the category. 

This creates an opportunity to: 

• Introduce new customers to your business 

• Expand beyond core gardening audiences 

• Build long-term relationships through first-time visits 

The impact of these interactions often extends well beyond the month of May. 

The Shift from Planning to Action 

While early spring is often defined by preparation, May marks a clear transition to action. Consumers are actively planting, refreshing landscapes, and moving forward with outdoor projects. 

This shift drives demand across key categories: 

• Plants and garden essentials – Planters & Accessories / Watering / Seed Starting 

• Soil, mulch, and landscape materials – Landscape Supplies / Fertilizer / Growing Media 

• Tools and accessories – Garden Tools / Cutting Tools / Applicators & Equipment 

Retailers who are well-positioned with the right assortment and strong in-store presentation are better equipped to meet this demand. 

Growth in Project-Based Sales 

As the season progresses, consumers begin taking on larger outdoor projects, increasing demand for bulk materials and delivery services. 

This period often brings growth in: Landscape Supplies / Weed Control  

• Mulch, compost, and soil  

• Hardscaping materials 

• Landscaping services 

These higher-value purchases can have a meaningful impact on overall sales performance. 

Increased Focus on Garden Health 

May also marks the beginning of ongoing maintenance. Customers begin to think beyond planting and focus on long-term success. 

Key areas of interest include: 

• Fertilization and lawn care – Fertilizer / Grass Seed 

• Pest and disease management – Repellent / Fungicide / Insecticide 

• Pollinator-friendly planting – Planters & Accessories / Pollinator Planting 

This is an important time for retailers to provide guidance and support, helping customers achieve better outcomes while increasing basket size through complementary products.  

Expansion into Outdoor Living 

As weather conditions stabilize, outdoor living becomes a priority. Consumers begin investing in spaces designed for gathering, entertaining, and relaxation. 

This expands the role of the garden center into categories such as: 

• Outdoor décor and accents – Garden Accents 

• Grilling and fire features – Grills & Accessories / Outdoor Heating 

• Outdoor living & furniture – Outdoor Living 

Retailers who merchandise these categories effectively can extend sales beyond traditional plant offerings. 

A Month That Sets the Tone 

Performance in May often sets the trajectory for the remainder of the season. Strong execution during this window can lead to sustained momentum, while missed opportunities can be difficult to recover later. 

For many retailers, May is not just another month. It is the foundation for the year ahead. 

Staying Prepared for What’s Ahead 

As demand peaks and customer expectations rise, having access to the right products, programs, and support becomes increasingly important. 

To explore seasonal products, programs, industry resources, and tools designed to support your business throughout the season, visit Arett.com today. 

Final Thought 

May brings together the key drivers of success in lawn and garden: timing, demand, and opportunity. Retailers who remain prepared, informed, and responsive during this critical period are best positioned to carry that success through the rest of the season.