Tips for planning a spring garden
Spring is in the air! What better time than now to start planning your vegetable or herb garden?
Although plant and herb possibilities may seem endless, it’s important to keep in mind the timing of certain crops, as spring weather can vary greatly depending on where one lives. April can be a tumultuous month of snap frosts and sudden rain showers, so it’s best to be prepared for variable weather when deciding which plants are able to withstand temperature fluctuations.
Here are some vegetables and herbs that are suitable for planting in a spring garden, depending on your location and climate:
- Lettuce and other salad greens: Lettuce, spinach, arugula, and other salad greens are perfect for a spring garden as they prefer shade and cooler temperatures.
- Peas: Peas are a cool-season crop that can be planted in early spring, approximately 4-6 weeks before the last spring frost date. They grow quickly and can be harvested in about 2-3 months.
- Broccoli: Broccoli is another cool-season crop that is easy to grow in the spring. It can be harvested in about 60-90 days.
- Carrots: Carrots are a root crop that can be planted in early spring – their seeds can be sown about 2-3 weeks before the last spring frost date. They take longer to mature, but they are worth the wait.
- Radishes: Radishes are a fast-growing vegetable that can be planted in early spring. They can be harvested in about 3-4 weeks.
- Cabbage: Cabbage is a cool-season crop that can be planted in the spring. It can be harvested in about 60-90 days.
- Herbs: Spring is a great time to plant herbs such as parsley, oregano, chives, and mint. They are hearty plants that are often perennial (oregano, chives, mint).
- Asparagus: Asparagus is a perennial vegetable that can be planted in the early spring. It takes a few years to establish, but once it does, it can provide a bountiful harvest for many years.
- Beets: Beets are a root vegetable that can be planted in the spring from seed. They take about 60-90 days to mature, but they are easy to grow and very nutritious.
- Kale: Kale is a cool-season crop that can be planted in the spring. It can be harvested in about 60-90 days and is very nutritious.
Remember to check your local climate and growing conditions to determine the best time and methods to plant your vegetables and herbs. Also, for further gardening inspiration, check out some lively garden décor and accessories here.