NYT Strands: Your Guide to Today's Tricky Garden Puzzle (May 22, 2026)

Ah, the daily Strands puzzle from The New York Times! Isn't it just a delightful little brain-teaser to kick off the day, or perhaps to unwind with in the evening? We've all been there, staring at the grid, convinced we're just one word away from cracking the whole thing wide open, only to find ourselves hopelessly stuck. It's a rite of passage for any true word puzzle enthusiast, wouldn't you agree?

Well, if you're tackling today's challenge – that's May 22, 2026, for those keeping track – and finding yourself a bit stumped, you've landed in the right spot. This isn't about giving up; it's about getting a friendly nudge in the right direction, a little bit of help to keep the fun flowing. Because, let's be honest, sometimes all it takes is one perfectly placed hint to make everything click.

For the uninitiated, or if you just need a quick refresher, Strands is a unique word-find game where you're looking for words that all connect to a specific, hidden theme. The kicker? One special word, the "spangram," touches two opposite sides of the board and is the theme itself. It's clever, it's challenging, and it certainly keeps us coming back for more.

So, let's talk about today's puzzle. If you've been scanning the letters and feeling like you're digging through dirt without a clear direction, you're not alone. The theme today, for May 22, 2026, revolves around something many of us find both relaxing and a little bit laborious. Think green thumbs, fresh air, and perhaps a touch of soil under your fingernails. Got a flicker of an idea?

General Tips to Help You Along

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty hints, here are a few general strategies I always fall back on when I'm feeling truly stumped. First, look for common prefixes or suffixes – things like "-ing," "re-", "un-". Sometimes a familiar ending or beginning will jump out and lead you to a word. Second, try to visualize the shape of the words. Are there any long diagonal runs, or maybe a cluster of consonants that look like they're just waiting to be connected? Lastly, and this is a big one: if you're utterly lost, try to spot words that seem completely unrelated to each other but might fit into a broader, more abstract category. It's funny how that works!

Ready for a Hint? The Spangram Awaits!

Okay, let's get down to business with that all-important spangram. Remember, this word touches two opposite edges of the board and literally is the theme. If you're looking for a broad hint, think about the primary activity that encompasses cultivating plants and maintaining outdoor spaces. It's a pastime for many, a chore for some, and a profession for others.

Still need a clearer picture? Alright, let's put it this way: the spangram for May 22, 2026, describes the act of tending to a plot of land to grow things. You know, planting, weeding, watering. It's something you do with tools and patience.

And the spangram is... GARDENING.

The Themed Words: Hints for Today's Puzzle

Now that you know the spangram is GARDENING, the rest of the words should start falling into place, right? They're all items or tools directly associated with this lovely activity. Don't worry, I won't just list them yet! Here are some gentle nudges for the remaining six words:

• Think about what you use to dig holes or scoop soil. It often has a long handle and a flat blade.
• What do you use to clear leaves or smooth out dirt? It's got many tines.
• These tiny things are what you plant to grow new plants. They're the very beginning!
• This flexible tube is essential for giving your plants a drink.
• You wear these to protect your hands from thorns and dirt.
• This device spins to spread water evenly over an area.

The Grand Reveal: All the Answers for May 22, 2026

If you've given it your best shot and just want to see the solutions, no judgment here! Sometimes you just need to put the puzzle to bed. Here are all the words, including the spangram, for today's NYT Strands puzzle:

Spangram: GARDENING

Theme Words:

• SHOVEL
• RAKE
• SEEDS
• HOSE
• GLOVES
• SPRINKLER

Phew! Another day, another Strands puzzle conquered (or at least, revealed!). I hope these hints and answers helped you enjoy the challenge a little more, and maybe even learned a new strategy or two. Keep those brains sharp, and we'll see you back here for the next one. Happy puzzling!