This guide will highlight a diverse array of crops you can successfully plant in April, focusing on vegetables and herbs that thrive in this season.

Kohlrabi

Kohlrabi, a member of the cabbage family, is a unique vegetable that offers both versatility and nutrition. This hybrid brassica has a bulbous stem that can be harvested when it’s about the size of a tennis ball. Planting kohlrabi in April allows you to take advantage of the cool spring weather, as it prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F.

This crop is relatively easy to grow; direct sow the seeds about ½ inch deep and 2 to 4 inches apart in well-drained, rich soil. As the plants grow, you can thin them out to allow more space for each bulb to develop. Additionally, kohlrabi is known for its rapid growth—it usually takes only about 50 to 70 days from sowing to harvest. You’ll enjoy a tender, sweet bulb that can be eaten raw in salads or cooked in stir-fries. Plus, the greens are edible too, providing a nutritious leaf that can be sautéed or used in salads.

Corn

Corn is a timeless favorite for any home garden, adored for its sweet, juicy kernels. April is the perfect month to sow this warm-season crop directly into the soil, as it thrives in temperatures above 60°F.

When planting corn, select a sunny spot with well-drained soil and ensure you sow seeds in blocks rather than long rows for better pollination. Space the seeds about 8 to 12 inches apart, burying them 1 to 2 inches deep. Corn typically takes about 70 to 100 days to reach maturity, so plan accordingly if you want fresh corn on the cob for summer barbecues.

In addition to flavor, corn is also a highly productive crop, making it a rewarding option for beginner gardeners. Whether you choose sweet corn for fresh eating or ornamental varieties for a colorful display, planting corn in April guarantees a delightful summer harvest.

Cucumber

Cucumbers are a refreshing and versatile vegetable that loves the warmth of spring. When planting cucumbers in April, you’ll want to wait until the risk of frost has passed, as these plants thrive in warm soil.

Start by sowing seeds about 1 inch deep, spaced 12 to 36 inches apart, depending on whether you’re growing bush or vining varieties. Cucumbers need ample sunlight and consistent watering to produce their crisp fruit. You can also opt for trellised cucumber varieties, which save space and keep fruit cleaner while preventing diseases that often arise from soil contact.

Typically, cucumbers can be harvested within 50 to 70 days after sowing, making them a quick and rewarding crop to grow. Enjoy them fresh in salads, fermented into pickles, or blended into refreshing smoothies.

Peanut

Peanuts are not only delicious but also a captivating crop to cultivate, especially in warmer climates. April is ideal for planting peanuts, as they enjoy a long warm growing season starting in the late spring. Plant them in well-drained, sandy loam soil, as heavy soils can lead to poor yields.

To grow peanuts, simply plant raw, unsalted peanuts about 2 inches deep and 6 to 8 inches apart. As the plants grow, they produce flowers above the ground that will develop ‘pegs’ that burrow into the soil and form peanuts. It’s fascinating to observe this process, as the peanuts grow underground.

Peanuts take about 120 to 150 days before they are ready to harvest. They can be enjoyed boiled, roasted, or transformed into creamy peanut butter. With their unique growing habit and flavor, peanuts offer an interesting addition to your April planting plans.

Parsley

Herbs are essential to any garden, and parsley is no exception. This versatile herb is an excellent addition to various dishes, making it a must-have crop to plant in April. Its preferability for cool weather means that planting this herb early in the spring ensures vibrant growth before the summer’s heat.

When sowing parsley, you can start seeds indoors or plant them directly outside. Seeds should be sown about ¼ inch deep, spaced 6 to 8 inches apart in well-draining soil. It’s worth noting that parsley seeds can be slow to germinate, often taking 2 to 3 weeks, so patience is key.

This biennial herb can be harvested within 70 to 90 days. Gather the leaves to use fresh in salads, sauces, or garnishes. Parsley also has potential health benefits, including high levels of vitamins A, C, and K, making it both a flavorful and nutritious addition to your garden.

Beans

Beans are an essential staple for any backyard garden, particularly in April, when temperatures are conducive to their growth. Planting bush beans or pole beans can fill your garden with greenery and provide a significant yield.

Direct sow beans into moist, well-draining soil about 1 to 1½ inches deep. Space seeds 2 to 4 inches apart, and if you are planting pole beans, provide a trellis for climbing. Beans thrive on warmth, so make sure temperatures consistently stay above 50°F for optimal germination.

Depending on the variety, you can harvest beans in about 50 to 75 days. Pick them while they are still tender for the best flavor, and enjoy them steamed, tossed in salads, or stir-fried. Beans are excellent sources of protein and fiber, making them a healthy choice for your vegetable garden.

Pumpkin

Pumpkins are a gardener’s delight, ideal for sowing in April to set the stage for an impressive autumn harvest. This warm-season crop requires plenty of sunlight and room to sprawl.

To plant pumpkins, sow seeds directly into the soil, about 1 inch deep and spaced 3 to 5 feet apart, depending on the variety. It’s essential to give pumpkins plenty of space, as their vines can take over the garden. They thrive in nutrient-rich soil, so amend with compost before planting.

In about 90 to 120 days, you’ll find yourself with stunning, plump pumpkins ready for Halloween decorations or delicious pies. Beyond aesthetics, pumpkins are also packed with vitamins and can be roasted, puréed, or used in soups.

Southern Peas

Southern peas, or cowpeas, are a hardy crop that can contribute to the health of your garden while providing delicious, nutritious legumes. These versatile plants thrive in warm weather, making April an excellent time to sow them.

Plant southern peas about 1 to 2 inches deep in well-drained soil, spacing seeds 2 to 4 inches apart. They are drought tolerant and can withstand poor soil conditions, making them an excellent option for many gardeners.

Typically, southern peas can be harvested in about 60 days. They’re perfect for adding protein to meals and can be cooked in stews, fried, or simply boiled. Plus, their nitrogen-fixing abilities enhance soil fertility, making them beneficial companions for other crops in your garden.

Collards

Collards are a robust, leafy green that is a favorite among southern cooks. This nutritious vegetable thrives in cooler early spring temperatures, making April an ideal planting month.

You can sow collard seeds directly into the garden, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches apart in rich, well-drained soil. Collards are known for their disease resistance and ability to withstand colder temperatures, making them a reliable crop.

In about 60 to 85 days, you can expect to harvest the large, vitamin-packed leaves. Use collards in stir-fries, soups, or even as wraps for a healthy twist. Their distinctive flavor and hearty texture add depth to meals, ensuring they become a staple in your spring garden.

Summer Squash

Summer squash is a beloved garden crop, particularly in April when the soil has warmed. This category includes popular varieties like zucchini and yellow squash, prized for their versatility and quick turnaround time.

Sow squash seeds directly into fertile soil after the danger of frost has passed, placing them about 1 inch deep and 2 to 3 feet apart. Squash plants benefit from warm weather and sunlight, plus they have a relatively fast maturation period of about 60 days.

When summer squash is harvested young, you’ll enjoy the best flavor and tenderness. Whether grilled, sautéed, or baked into dishes, summer squash adds a touch of vibrant flavor and color to your meals.

Okra

If you’re looking to add an exotic touch to your vegetable garden, consider planting okra this April. This warm-weather crop loves heat and thrives in long growing seasons, making it ideal for southern gardens.

To get started, direct sow okra seeds about 1 inch deep and 12 inches apart in well-drained soil. Ensure location choices offer full sun, as okra loves warmth and will flourish with plenty of sunlight.

Okra will be ready for harvesting in about 50 to 60 days. It can be used in a variety of dishes, from gumbo to salads. Known for its mucilaginous texture, it also adds a unique flavor and distinct taste, making it a standout addition to any garden.

Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes are a delicious, nutrient-rich crop that can be planted in April, especially as soil temperature rises. These tubers thrive in warm conditions and require about 90 to 120 days from planting to harvest.

Start with sweet potato slips—young sprouts grown from existing sweet potatoes. Plant slips in well-drained, sandy soil, ensuring they are spaced about 12 to 18 inches apart, with their tops above the soil line.

As the plants grow, they will spread out, requiring adequate room. Harvest sweet potatoes when the vines start to yellow, and the tubers will be firm and sweet. These versatile vegetables can be baked, mashed, or even made into pies, providing endless culinary potential.

Watermelon

Few things signify summer quite like homegrown watermelon. Sowing watermelon seeds in April allows these heat-loving plants to establish themselves before the summer heat arrives.

To plant, choose a sunny spot and sow seeds about 1 inch deep, spacing them 3 to 5 feet apart, as watermelon vines can spread significantly. They flourish in sandy, well-drained soils enriched with organic matter.

Watermelons are usually ready for harvest in about 70 to 90 days. Recognize ripe watermelons by their uniform color and thumping sound when tapped. This sweet, hydrating fruit is perfect for summertime picnics, providing hydration and delight in every bite.

What to Direct Sow in April

In April, many crops can be direct seeded into your garden. Traditional staples include carrots, radishes, and beets, alongside the ones we’ve discussed above, such as corn, beans, and cucumbers. Direct sowing allows seeds to sprout in their natural environment, adapting to the specific conditions of your garden soil.

For root crops like carrots and radishes, ensure a fresh, loosened soil for optimal germination. For larger seeds, space them adequately to allow for growth and development. Make sure to monitor soil moisture and temperature for the best results.

Direct sowing in April is about enjoying the anticipation of watching your chosen crops sprout, grow, and eventually flourish under warm spring sunshine.

What to Transplant Outdoors in April

As the risk of frost diminishes, April becomes the ideal time to transplant seedlings outdoors. Crops like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants can thrive in the warmer temperatures characteristic of late spring.

When transplanting, choose a cloudy day or early evening to minimize transplant shock. Ensure that seedlings are hardened off beforehand to acclimatize them gradually to outdoor conditions.

Prepare the planting area with well-draining, nutrient-rich soil and plant your seedlings at the same depth they were growing in their pots. Water thoroughly after transplanting to help settle them in. With proper care and nurturing, these transplants will lead to a bountiful summer harvest.

Conclusion

April is a pivotal month in the gardening calendar, offering the warm weather and longer days necessary for a plethora of crops to thrive. From the crisp sweetness of cucumbers to the hearty sustenance of collards and the beautiful blooms of roselle, this spring planting season can yield a garden bursting with life.