Discover what to plant in spring with our comprehensive guide. From early vegetables to herbs and flowers, learn the best crops for your spring garden and when to start planting.
Spring is an exciting time for gardeners. As the ground thaws and the days grow longer, it’s time to start thinking about what to plant in spring. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, know what to grow in spring. It will help you get the most from your garden and yield a bountiful harvest.
This guide will cover the best plants to grow in spring. It will also discuss when to start your spring garden and what to plant for a thriving garden. From early spring vegetables to grow to the best veggies to grow in spring, we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive spring planting guide.
1. When to start your spring garden
One of the most common questions gardeners ask is, “When to start planting for spring?”. It depends on several factors. These include your local climate, the plants you want to grow, and whether to start seeds indoors or plant directly in the garden.
Generally, you can start your spring garden when the soil can be worked and is no longer frozen. This is typically a few weeks after the last frost date in your area. However, some cool weather crops can be planted even earlier.
Here’s a general timeline for starting your spring garden:
- 6-8 weeks before the last frost: Start seeds indoors for plants like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants.
- 4-6 weeks before the last frost: Begin planting cool-season crops outdoors, such as peas, lettuce, and spinach.
- 2-4 weeks before the last frost: Plant root crops like carrots and radishes directly in the garden.
- After the last frost: Transplant warm-season crops and direct sow heat-loving vegetables.
Remember, these are general guidelines. Always check the specific planting times of year for your region and the varieties of plants you’re growing.
2. Early spring vegetables to grow
When it comes to early spring veggies to grow, there are plenty of options that thrive in cooler temperatures. These plants are often referred to as “cool weather crops” and can germinate in soil temperatures as low as 40°F (4°C).
Here are some of the best vegetables to plant in spring:
- Leafy Greens: Lettuce, spinach, and Swiss chard are excellent choices for early spring planting. They grow quickly and can be harvested multiple times.
- Root Vegetables: Carrots, radishes, and turnips are great root crops to plant in early spring. They prefer cool soil and will be ready to harvest before the heat of summer.
- Brassicas: Broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage are hardy vegetables that can withstand light frosts. Start them indoors and transplant them into the garden a few weeks before the last frost date.
- Peas: Both snow peas and sugar snap peas are perfect for early spring planting. They grow quickly and can reach up to 6 feet tall, depending on the variety.
- Onions and Garlic: These alliums can be planted as soon as the ground thaws. They’re a great option for early spring crops and will be ready to harvest in early summer.
Many of these vegetables can be replanted in late summer for a fall harvest. They are versatile additions to your garden.
3. What to plant in early spring
As the soil begins to warm up, you can start planting a wider variety of vegetables. Here’s a guide on what to plant in early spring, including vegetables to plant in March and April. Discover more with Your Plant Growth now.
March:
- Potatoes: Once the soil temperature reaches 45°F (7°C), you can plant potato tubers.
- Asparagus: This perennial vegetable is best planted in early spring.
- Kale: A nutrient-dense leafy green that can withstand cold temperatures.
- Arugula: This peppery green germinates quickly and prefers cool weather.
April:
- Beets: These root vegetables grow well in cooler temperatures and can be harvested young for their greens.
- Carrots: Sow carrot seeds directly in the garden in well-drained soil.
- Celery: Start celery seeds indoors and transplant them outside in mid-April.
- Chard: This colorful leafy green is both nutritious and heat-tolerant.
In addition to vegetables, early spring is also a great time to plant herbs like cilantro, dill, and parsley. These herbs prefer cooler temperatures and can bolt (go to seed) when it gets too hot.
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4. Spring Herb Garden
A spring herb garden is a fantastic addition to any spring vegetable garden. Herbs not only add flavor to your meals but also attract beneficial insects to your garden. Here are some herbs that thrive in spring and tips for growing them:
Herbs to Plant in Spring:
- Cilantro: A cool-weather herb that’s perfect for early spring planting.
- Parsley: Both flat-leaf and curly varieties grow well in spring.
- Dill: Sow directly in the garden after the ground thaws.
- Chives: These perennial herbs are among the first to emerge in spring.
- Mint: A vigorous grower, best planted in containers to prevent spreading.
Tips for Growing Spring Herbs:
- Choose a sunny location: Most herbs need at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
- Ensure well-drained soil: Herbs prefer soil that doesn’t stay waterlogged.
- Start seeds indoors: For a head start, sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
- Harden off seedlings: Gradually expose indoor-started plants to outdoor conditions.
- Water regularly: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially for young plants.
Herbs are great options for what to plant in spring, as many are frost-tolerant and can be harvested throughout the growing season.
5. Spring flowers and ornamentals
Vegetables and herbs are great for spring planting. But, don’t forget to add some color with spring flowers and ornamentals. These plants not only beautify your space but also support pollinators. Here are some good plants to plant in spring:
- Pansies: These cool-weather flowers come in a variety of colors and can withstand light frosts.
- Snapdragons: Plant these tall, colorful flowers for a dramatic spring display.
- Sweet Peas: These fragrant climbers are perfect for trellises and can grow up to 6 feet tall, depending on the variety.
- Calendula: Also known as pot marigold, these cheery flowers are edible and attract beneficial insects.
- Dianthus: These low-growing flowers are perfect for borders and rock gardens.
When choosing spring garden plants, consider the following:
- Bloom time: Select a mix of early, mid, and late spring bloomers for continuous color.
- Height: Plant taller flowers at the back of beds and shorter ones in front.
- Color scheme: Choose complementary colors or a monochromatic scheme for a cohesive look.
- Growing conditions: Match plants to your garden’s sunlight and soil conditions.
Remember, many spring-flowering bulbs like tulips and daffodils should be planted in fall for spring blooms. However, you can plant them in early spring for summer flowering.
6. Spring vegetable garden planning
Planning your spring veggie garden is crucial for a successful growing season. Here’s how to create an efficient and productive spring vegetable garden:
- Choose Your Location:
- Select a spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.
- Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged soil.
- Consider proximity to a water source for easy irrigation.
- Prepare the Soil:
- Once the ground thaws and the soil can be worked, remove any weeds or debris.
- Add compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil.
- Test your soil pH and amend if necessary.
- Plan Your Layout:
- Group plants with similar needs together.
- Place taller plants on the north side to avoid shading shorter ones.
- Leave enough space between plants for growth and air circulation.
- Implement Companion Planting:
- Plant compatible vegetables together to maximize space and deter pests.
- For example, plant carrots with onions, or tomatoes with basil.
- Consider Succession Planting:
- Stagger plantings of quick-maturing crops like radishes and lettuce for continuous harvests.
- Plan to replace cool-weather crops with heat-loving vegetables as the season progresses.
- Install Support Structures:
- Set up trellises, cages, or stakes for climbing plants like peas and pole beans.
- Do this before planting to avoid disturbing roots later.
- Plan for Crop Rotation:
- Don’t plant the same family of vegetables in the same spot year after year. This prevents soil depletion and disease buildup.
When deciding what to grow in your spring garden, consider your family’s preferences, your climate, and the space available. A well-planned spring vegetable garden can provide fresh, nutritious produce throughout the growing season.
Remember, the key to a successful spring veggie garden is starting at the right time. Use a spring planting guide specific to your region to determine the best times to sow seeds or transplant seedlings. With proper planning and care, you can grow a bountiful spring garden. It will be filled with delicious vegetables, aromatic herbs, and beautiful flowers.
7. Spring planting guide
A comprehensive spring planting guide is essential for knowing when to start planting for spring and what vegetables to plant in spring. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Assess Your Frost Dates:
- Determine your area’s last expected frost date.
- Use this as a reference point for when to start planting your spring garden.
- Prepare Your Tools:
- Gather essential gardening tools like trowels, spades, and pruning shears.
- Clean and sharpen tools if necessary.
- Start Seeds Indoors:
- Begin 6-8 weeks before the last frost for plants like tomatoes and peppers.
- Use seed trays or small pots with well-draining soil.
- Prepare Your Garden Beds:
- Once the ground thaws and the soil can be worked, remove weeds and debris.
- Add compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil.
- Direct Sow Cool Weather Crops:
- Plant cool weather crops like peas, spinach, and radishes directly in the garden.
- These can often be planted as soon as the soil can be worked, even before the last frost.
- Transplant Seedlings:
- After hardening off, transplant seedlings started indoors.
- Do this a few weeks after the last frost for warm-season crops.
- Mulch Your Garden:
- Apply a layer of organic mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
The best time to plant your garden depends on your local climate and your plant varieties. Always check seed packets or consult a local gardening resource for precise planting times in your area.
8. Tips for successful spring gardening
To ensure your spring veggie garden thrives, follow these tips:
- Monitor Soil Temperature:
- Use a soil thermometer to check when soil temperatures are right for planting.
- Different vegetables germinate in different soil temperatures.
- Protect Against Late Frosts:
- Be prepared to cover plants if a late frost is forecast.
- Use row covers, cloches, or even old bedsheets to protect tender seedlings.
- Water Properly:
- Water deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root growth.
- Water at the base of plants to avoid wetting leaves, which can lead to disease.
- Fertilize Wisely:
- Use a balanced, organic fertilizer when planting.
- Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to lush foliage but poor fruit production.
- Practice Pest Management:
- Monitor your garden regularly for signs of pests or disease.
- Use organic pest control methods when possible, such as hand-picking pests or using insecticidal soaps.
- Thin Seedlings:
- Once seedlings have their first true leaves, thin them to the recommended spacing.
- This allows remaining plants to grow strong and healthy.
- Support Climbing Plants:
- Install trellises or stakes for plants like peas and pole beans.
- Do this early to avoid disturbing established roots.
- Keep a Garden Journal:
- Record what you plant, when you plant it, and how it performs.
- This information will be invaluable for planning future gardens.
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9. Conclusion
Now that you know what to plant in spring and how to care for your spring garden, you’re ready to start growing! Remember, spring planting is all about timing and preparation. A well-planned spring garden can yield a great harvest.
From deciding what veggies to plant in spring to choosing the best plants to grow in spring, this guide has covered the essentials of spring gardening. We’ve explored when to start your spring garden, what plants you can plant in spring, and how to care for your spring crops.
As you embark on your spring gardening journey, keep in mind that gardening is a learning process. Don’t be discouraged if everything doesn’t go perfectly the first time. Each season brings new experiences and opportunities to grow as a gardener.
So grab your tools, get your hands dirty, and enjoy the satisfaction of watching your spring garden come to life. Follow the Seasonal Gardening section now to not miss any useful information.