As many gardeners emerge from their winter hibernation, April provides an opportunity to sow seeds and set the stage for a bountiful harvest. Depending on your Hardiness Zone, planting times can vary significantly, so let’s explore a variety of vegetables suitable for planting in April, complete with specific planting dates and improved growing practices tailored for various zones.
Carrots
Carrots are a classic choice for early spring planting, beloved for their sweetness and versatility in the kitchen. These root vegetables thrive in cool soil temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 70°F (15°C to 21°C). Their long growth cycle and ability to develop deep roots make them a rewarding crop for patient gardeners. Here’s how to go about it:
Hardiness Zones: 3-7
Direct Sowing Date: Late March to early April
In Zones 3 and 4, sow carrot seeds as soon as the ground thaws and is workable, typically around late March to early April. Warmer Zones 5-7 allow for sowing into the soil as soon as it is manageable. When planting, seeds should be sown about ½ inch deep, and germination should occur within 10-20 days. Once seedlings emerge, thin them to 3 inches apart to ensure optimal root development. Carrots are versatile in the garden; consider planting another round in late spring for staggered harvests, keeping the soil consistently moist during dry spells. Harvesting can begin once roots reach the desired size, generally around 70-80 days after planting, making for delicious raw snacks or additions to hearty dishes.
Peas
Peas are heralds of spring, their tender shoots contributing a touch of sweetness to the garden after the long winter months. These cool-weather crops are not only easy to grow but also enrich the soil with nitrogen, benefiting subsequent plants.
Hardiness Zones: 3-8
Direct Sowing Date: Late March to Mid-April
In cooler Zones 3 and 4, sow pea seeds in late March. For warmer Zones 5-8, April becomes the prime time for planting. When sowing, place seeds about 1-2 inches deep and space them 2 inches apart in rows that are 18-24 inches apart. Peas have a rapid germination rate, typically sprouting within a week to ten days. As these legumes grow, provide trellising support for vining varieties, which aids in air circulation and improves yields. Gather freshly picked peas when they are plump yet tender for the sweetest crunch, perfect for spring salads or garden stir-fries.
Asparagus
Asparagus is one of the few perennial vegetables that rewards gardeners with harvests for many years. Once established, these tender spears require minimal care and continue to yield delicious crops each spring.
Hardiness Zones: 3-9
Planting Date for Crowns: Early to Mid-April
For optimal growth, plant asparagus crowns in well-draining, compost-enriched soil. In USDA Zones 3 and 4, plant as soon as the ground is workable, typically early April. For Zones 5-9, aim for planting by mid-April. Space crowns about 18 inches apart in a prepared trench with the buds facing upwards. While growing asparagus requires patience—it generally takes about three years before harvest begins—the initial care pays off with vigorous growth and robust harvests. During the first two years, let the ferns grow to maximize root energy, and by the third year, celebrate your first harvest in the spring, usually from late April to early June, when spears are tender and flavorful.
Rhubarb
Rhubarb brings a delightful tartness to your garden and is particularly easy to care for once established. This hardy perennial is a fantastic choice for those looking to add a unique flavor profile to pies and other desserts.
Hardiness Zones: 3-8
Planting Date for Crowns: Early to Mid-April
In cooler zones, such as 3 and 4, plant rhubarb crowns as soon as the soil is workable, typically in early April. In milder Zones 6-8, you have the flexibility to plant throughout April. Space the crowns 2-4 feet apart in well-drained soil rich in compost for optimal nutrient uptake. It’s crucial to resist harvesting during the first year, allowing the plants to establish a strong root system. In subsequent years, harvest can begin in late spring, generally from April through June. Rhubarb’s vibrant red stalks not only enhance baked goods but also serve as a beautiful visual accent in your garden.
Beets
Beets are celebrated for their rich color and earthy flavor, making them a rewarding crop to grow. In addition to their vibrant hues, beets also pack a nutritional punch, containing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Hardiness Zones: 2-9
Direct Sowing Date: Early to Mid-April
In USDA Zones 2 and 3, it’s safe to direct sow beet seeds as soon as the ground is workable, usually in early April. For warmer Zones 5-9, aim for mid-April as the ideal date. Sow seeds about 1 inch apart and to a depth of 1 inch for optimal growth. Once seedlings emerge, thin them out to maintain at least 3 inches of space between each plant, crucial for proper bulb development. Beets can be harvested as baby vegetables in about 50 days or left to mature for larger roots in approximately 70 days. The greens are also edible and nutritious, providing additional versatility in your culinary creations.
Kale
Kale has made a name for itself as a superfood—rich in nutrients and incredibly resilient—which makes it a fantastic choice for early spring planting.
Hardiness Zones: 3-9
Direct Sowing or Transplant Date: Early to Mid-April
For USDA Zones 3-4, sow kale directly into the garden in early April, while gardeners in Zones 5-9 can consider mid-April for sowing. Starting seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date is another effective strategy, enabling a head start on the growing season. Space the plants about 12 inches apart, as kale can grow large and bushy. Kale thrives on regular harvesting; by picking the outer leaves while allowing the inner leaves to continue growing, you can enjoy a continuous supply of fresh greens. With proper care, you can begin harvesting in as little as 60 days, making it an excellent addition to salads, stir-fries, and smoothies.
Onions
April is the prime time for getting onions into the ground, another versatile staple in culinary traditions around the world.
Hardiness Zones: 3-9
Onion Sets Sowing Date: Early to Mid-April
For cooler Zones 3 and 4, start planting onion sets or transplants in late March, while in the milder Zones 5-9, mid-April is ideal for planting. Position onion sets 1-2 inches deep, spacing them 4-6 inches apart in rows that are about 12-18 inches apart, ensuring they have ample room to grow. Choose from sweet, white, or red onion varieties based on your taste preferences. As onions mature, they require consistent moisture levels to develop their flavor. Maturity occurs in 90-120 days, providing fresh onions that can enhance a variety of dishes and last through the warmer months.
Spinach
Spinach is a fast-growing green perfect for the cooler weather of spring, and it thrives in rich, moist soils.
Hardiness Zones: 3-9
Direct Sowing Date: Early to Mid-April
In cooler zones 3-4, you can start sowing spinach seeds outdoors in early April, while in warmer Zones 5-9, mid-April is the ideal time to sow. Plant seeds about 1 inch apart and ½-1 inch deep in well-drained soil. Spinach germinates quickly, with a potential harvest in just 40-50 days, providing you with tender leaves to enjoy in salads or cooked dishes. To maximize your yield, stagger your sowings every couple of weeks for a continuous supply of spinach throughout the spring months.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are often considered the quintessential garden vegetable, celebrated for their mouth-watering taste and incredible versatility in the kitchen.
Hardiness Zones: 5-10
Indoor Sowing Date: 6-8 weeks before last frost; Transplant Date: Early to Mid-April
For Zones 5-10, begin starting your seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Once the threat of frost has passed and nighttime temperatures remain above 50°F (10°C), transplant seedlings outdoors by the end of April. Select a sunny spot, as tomatoes thrive in full sun and warm soil enriched with compost. After hardening off your seedlings, plant them deeply, around 18-24 inches apart, ensuring they receive the light they need for healthy growth. With proper care, the first tomatoes can be expected around 70-90 days after transplanting. Regular watering and providing stakes or cages will support healthy growth, ensuring a bountiful summer harvest for fresh salads, sauces, and sandwiches.
Peppers
Peppers offer gardeners a wide range of flavors, from sweet to spicy, and they thrive alongside tomatoes, making them popular companions in the garden.
Hardiness Zones: 5-10
Indoor Sowing Date: 8-10 weeks before last frost; Transplant Date: Mid-April
In Zones 5-10, it’s best to start pepper seeds indoors about 8-10 weeks before the last frost date. By mid-April, once the soil has thoroughly warmed and the risk of frost has passed, you can begin to transplant your seedlings into the garden. Ensure proper spacing by placing plants about 18-24 inches apart in a sunny location with rich, well-drained soil. Maturation times vary depending on the variety but generally range from 60-90 days. A successful pepper harvest allows you to enjoy their vibrant flavors in salsas, stir-fries, or stuffed dishes, adding a colorful touch to your summer meals.
Sweet Potatoes
If you’re interested in cultivating something a little different, sweet potatoes are a wonderful addition that provides both a unique flavor and continued nutritional value.
Hardiness Zones: 8-11
Transplant Date: Mid to Late April
Sweet potatoes require warm air and soil temperatures to thrive, making mid- to late April the best time for planting in Zones 8-11, when soil temperatures reach at least 65°F (18°C). You can either purchase slips or start them from whole sweet potatoes by placing them in water to sprout. When planting, position slips about 12 inches apart in well-drained, sandy soil with full sun exposure. With a longer growing season, sweet potatoes are typically ready to harvest in 90-120 days, as the leaves begin to yellow. These versatile tubers can be utilized in both savory and sweet dishes, showcasing their adaptability in the kitchen.
Basil
Basil is the culinary herb that defines summer cooking, adding fragrant flavor to many dishes from salads to sauces, making it a favorite among home cooks.
Hardiness Zones: 4-10
Indoor Sowing Date: 6-8 weeks before last frost; Transplant Date:** Late April
In Zones 4 and above, start basil seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks prior to your last frost date. Plan to transplant outdoors in late April after the danger of frost has passed and nighttime temperatures stabilize. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot, and plant basil in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil, spacing plants about 12 inches apart. You’ll be able to begin harvesting flavorful, aromatic leaves in about 60 days. Regular pinching back of leaves will promote bushy growth, ensuring your basil supply remains abundant for use in pesto, salads, and garnishes throughout the summer months.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a nutritious crop that excels in cool weather and can be effectively planted in spring for a summer harvest.
Hardiness Zones: 3-7
Direct Sowing or Transplant Date: Early to Mid-April
For cooler Zones 3-4, start seeds indoors for transplanting outdoors in early April; Zones 5-7 allow for direct sowing seeds or transplanting seedlings by mid-April. Space broccoli plants about 18 inches apart to provide sufficient room for head development. Consistent moisture and ample sunlight are crucial for successful growth, and with proper care, mature heads may be ready for harvest in about 70-90 days. The satisfaction of bringing homegrown broccoli to your plate—whether steamed, roasted, or enjoyed raw—makes it a staple for well-balanced meals.
Corn
Corn is a favorite summer crop, known for its tall, lush appearance and sweet, juicy ears that are the highlight of summer barbecues.
Hardiness Zones: 3-11
Direct Sowing Date: Mid to Late April
In most hardiness zones, including cooler Zones 3-4, you can plant corn seeds in mid to late April once the soil has warmed to at least 60°F (15°C). For warmer Zones 5-11, late April is ideal. Plant seeds approximately 1-2 inches deep, spacing them 6-12 inches apart in rows that are 30-40 inches apart. Corn typically matures in about 70-100 days, and you can enjoy its sweet, fresh flavor during summer gatherings, making it an essential crop for many home gardens.
Green Beans
Green beans are perfect for first-time gardeners and offer a quick turnaround, producing delightful, crisp vegetables throughout the growing season.
Hardiness Zones: 3-10
Direct Sowing Date: Mid-April
In most zones, you can start planting green bean seeds directly in mid-April. Choose between bush beans, which require less space, or pole varieties, which will need support. Sow seeds about 1 inch deep and spaced 2-3 inches apart in rows that are approximately 30 inches apart. Expect germination within a week, with green beans typically ready to harvest in 50-60 days. The ability to continuously harvest during the growing season makes this vegetable a favorite for home growers looking for rapid results.
Zucchini
Zucchini adds a bountiful harvest to any vegetable garden, renowned for its versatility and rich flavor, making it a summertime favorite.
Hardiness Zones: 3-11
Direct Sowing Date: Mid to Late April
For most hardiness zones, mid- to late April is the ideal time to sow zucchini seeds directly into warm soil once the risk of frost has passed. Find a sunny location and plant seeds about 1 inch deep, spacing them around 36-48 inches apart to accommodate their sprawling nature. Zucchini typically matures within 50-70 days, and consistent harvesting encourages continuous fruit production. These delightful vegetables lend themselves well to grilling, stuffing, or baking, providing you with endless culinary creations throughout the summer.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are beloved for their refreshing taste and crisp texture, especially when savoring salads on hot days.
Hardiness Zones: 4-10
Direct Sowing Date: Late April
For cooler USDA Zones, cucumbers can be successfully planted in late April, once the soil temperature reaches about 70°F (21°C). Plant seeds about 1 inch deep, spacing them approximately 36 inches apart in rows that are 4-6 feet apart to allow for their vigorous trellising growth. With proper care, you can expect your first cucumbers ready for harvest about 50-70 days after planting. Enjoy these refreshing green fruits fresh in salads, pickled, or blended in smoothies, enhancing your dishes with their delightful crunch.
Peanut
Peanuts are a unique and fun addition to your garden, bringing both interest and flavor to your growing selection.
Hardiness Zones: 8-11
Direct Sowing Date: Late April
For gardeners in warmer climates (Zones 8-11), plant peanut seeds directly in well-drained, sandy soil in late April when temperatures are consistently warm. Space seeds approximately 24 inches apart to provide adequate growth room. Peanuts thrive in loose soil that allows their underground pods to develop freely. Expected maturity occurs in about 90-120 days, and harvesting involves gently digging up the plants to reveal the peanuts nestled within. Cultivating peanuts not only adds variety to your garden but rewards you with the unmatched flavors of freshly harvested nuts.
Parsley
Parsley is a versatile herb that enhances countless culinary creations, making it a staple herb in many kitchens.
Hardiness Zones: 3-9
Direct Sowing Date: Mid-April
In cooler zones, direct sow parsley seeds in mid-April, while in warmer Zones 7-9, you can plant slightly earlier. Place seeds about 1/4 inch deep in well-draining, rich soil, and expect germination within 2-4 weeks. Parsley thrives in full sun but can tolerate some shade. Space plants around 12 inches apart to allow for ample room to grow. Once established, parsley provides vibrant leaves that can be harvested continuously throughout its growing season. It makes an excellent addition to salads, garnishes, or as a flavorful seasoning in many dishes.
Pumpkin
Known for its vibrant orange color and fall festivities, pumpkins thrive in warm soil for optimal growth and yield.
Hardiness Zones: 3-10
Direct Sowing Date: Late April to Early May
For most zones, including those in the upper regions, late April to early May is the ideal time to plant pumpkin seeds directly in rich, well-drained soil once all threat of frost has passed. Space seeds about 36-48 inches apart to accommodate their expansive growth. Pumpkins typically take 90-120 days to mature, allowing sufficient time for them to develop and achieve their distinctive size and color before Halloween and Thanksgiving celebrations. Watching a pumpkin grow from seed to fruit is not only enjoyable but also a rewarding experience for both new and experienced gardeners.
Summer Squash
Summer squash—a broad category that includes zucchini and other varieties—is perfect for your April planting schedule.
Hardiness Zones: 4-11
Direct Sowing Date: Mid to Late April
Plant summer squash seeds outdoors in mid- to late April when the soil has warmed sufficiently. Space seeds about 36 inches apart in well-drained soil that receives full sunlight. These squash varieties typically exhibit rapid growth, maturing in about 50-70 days, allowing you to reap bountiful harvests throughout the summer months. Regular harvesting encourages the plants to produce more squash, providing a multitude of delicious options for grilling, sautéing, or baking—all delicious ways to enjoy this seasonal treat.
Okra
If you’re looking to try something exotic and uniquely Southern, consider growing okra. This heat-loving plant is both fun to cultivate and easy to maintain.
Hardiness Zones: 8-11
Direct Sowing Date: Late April
In warm USDA Zones 8-11, you can plant okra seeds directly into the soil in late April. Sow seeds 1 inch deep and space them about 12-18 inches apart to ensure they receive ample sunlight and airflow. Okra typically reaches maturity in about 50-60 days, and it’s advisable to harvest the pods while they are still young and tender for the best flavor. The distinct taste of fresh okra makes it a wonderful addition to various Southern dishes, and gardening enthusiasts will enjoy the unique experience of cultivating this delightful crop.
Watermelon
Nothing says summer quite like a slice of juicy watermelon! These sweet, hydrating fruits are cherished by many and are a staple of summer picnics.
Hardiness Zones: 8-11
Direct Sowing Date: Late April to Early May
For gardeners in USDA Zones 8-11, you can plant watermelon seeds directly outdoors from late April to early May in well-drained soil that receives full sun. Space the seeds about 1 inch deep, maintaining 36-42 inches apart to provide room for the sprawling vines. Watermelons typically take 70-90 days to mature, allowing you to enjoy sweet, juicy fruit by mid-summer. Harvesting homegrown watermelon adds a sweet sense of accomplishment to your gardening season, leaving you with cherished memories of summer gatherings and refreshing treats.
