As the winter chill fades and the promise of warmer weather unfurls, gardeners across the United States eagerly anticipate the arrival of spring.
It’s a time of renewal and growth, perfect for planting a variety of vegetables, flowers, herbs, and landscape plants. However, knowing what to plant in spring and when can depend significantly on your USDA hardiness zone.
Below, we’ll explore various plants suited for spring planting, complete with crucial details on temperature tolerances and planting dates specific to different regions.
Vegetables to Plant in Spring
Spring is a great time to sow seeds or set out seedlings that will thrive in the warming soil. Here are ten vegetable options well-suited for spring planting, along with temperature tolerances and planting dates.
1. Peas (Pisum sativum)
Peas are a great cool-season crop that can be planted as early as late winter in milder climates.
Temperature Tolerance: Peas can tolerate soil temperatures as low as 45°F (7°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Late March to early April.
Zones 6-7: Early February to March.
Zones 8-10: Mid-February to March.
2. Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)
Spinach thrives in cooler weather, making it another excellent candidate for spring planting.
Temperature Tolerance: Grows best in temperatures of 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 15°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Late March to early April.
Zones 6-7: Early March.
Zones 8-10: Late February to early March.
3. Radishes (Raphanus sativus)
Radishes are fast-growing and can be sown directly into the garden with relative ease.
Temperature Tolerance: Best grown in temperatures between 45°F and 85°F (7°C to 29°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: April.
Zones 6-7: Late March.
Zones 8-10: February to March.
4. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)
Lettuce, particularly leaf varieties, can be sown directly as soon as the soil can be worked.
Temperature Tolerance: Grows optimally between 60°F and 70°F (15°C to 21°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Late March to early April.
Zones 6-7: Mid-March.
Zones 8-10: February to March.
5. Carrots (Daucus carota)
Carrots are robust and enjoy the cooler temperatures of early spring.
Temperature Tolerance: Can germinate in soil as cool as 40°F (4°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: April.
Zones 6-7: Late March.
Zones 8-10: February to March.
6. Beets (Beta vulgaris)
Beets can tolerate cooler temperatures, making them ideal for an early spring garden.
Temperature Tolerance: Favors temperatures of 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Late March to April.
Zones 6-7: Late March.
Zones 8-10: February to March.
7. Broccoli (Brassica oleracea)
Broccoli is another cool-season plant that can thrive in early spring.
Temperature Tolerance: Prefers 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C) for optimal growth.
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Early April for direct sowing or transplanting.
Zones 6-7: Late March.
Zones 8-10: Late February to March.
8. Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata)
Cabbage is a hardy vegetable that can withstand spring’s unpredictable weather.
Temperature Tolerance: Can be planted when temperatures are between 45°F and 75°F (7°C to 24°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: April.
Zones 6-7: March.
Zones 8-10: Late February to March.
9. Potatoes (Solanum tuberosum)
Potatoes can be planted as soon as the soil has thawed and is workable.
Temperature Tolerance: Prefer soil temperatures above 45°F (7°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Late April.
Zones 6-7: Late March to early April.
Zones 8-10: February to March.
10. Onions (Allium cepa)
Onions can be grown from sets or seeds and flourish in cooler temperatures.
Temperature Tolerance: Onions can tolerate cold weather, sprouting in soil as low as 20°F (-6°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: April.
Zones 6-7: March.
Zones 8-10: February.
Flowers to Plant in Spring
The blooming beauty of flowers can bring vibrant colors and delightful scents to your garden. Here are ten flower varieties to consider for spring planting.
1. Pansies (Viola tricolor var. hortensis)
Pansies are resilient flowers that can handle cool temperatures and add color early in the season.
Temperature Tolerance: Pansies can tolerate brief frost but thrive best in temperatures from 40°F to 65°F (4°C to 18°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Early April.
Zones 6-7: Early March.
Zones 8-10: Late February to early March.
2. Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus)
Snapdragons are known for their tall spikes of flowers and can tolerate cooler springs.
Temperature Tolerance: Ideally grown in temperatures between 45°F and 75°F (7°C to 24°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: April.
Zones 6-7: Late March.
Zones 8-10: February to March.
3. Dianthus (Dianthus spp.)
Carnations and other Dianthus varieties bloom beautifully with minimal care and thrive in spring weather.
Temperature Tolerance: Prefer 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C) but can tolerate cooler nights.
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Late March to April.
Zones 6-7: Early March.
Zones 8-10: February.
4. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)
These cheerful flowers are great for deterring pests and are easy to grow in spring.
Temperature Tolerance: Dormant below 50°F (10°C), but grow well in temperatures up to 75°F (24°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Late April.
Zones 6-7: Early to mid-April.
Zones 8-10: March.
5. Sweet Peas (Lathyrus odoratus)
Sweet peas not only add color to your garden but also provide fragrance.
Temperature Tolerance: These flowers are best planted in cooler temperatures between 50°F and 70°F (10°C to 21°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Early April.
Zones 6-7: Late March.
Zones 8-10: February to early March.
6. Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides)
For those in warmer zones, gardenias bring a lovely fragrance and glossy foliage.
Temperature Tolerance: Thrive in temperatures around 65°F to 70°F (18°C to 21°C) and cannot handle frost.
Planting Dates:
Zones 8-10: March.
Zones 7: Late March and avoid early frosts.
7. Petunias (Petunia x hybrida)
Easy to grow and colorful, petunias are a spring favorite for hanging baskets and garden beds.
Temperature Tolerance: Best at temperatures ranging from 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Starts in late April.
Zones 6-7: April.
Zones 8-10: Mid-March.
8. Primrose (Primula spp.)
Primroses are a cheerful spring flower known for their vibrant colors.
Temperature Tolerance: Flourishes in temperatures between 50°F and 60°F (10°C to 15°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Early April.
Zones 6-7: March.
Zones 8-10: Late February to early March.
9. Calibrachoa (Calibrachoa spp.)
Similar to petunias, they are often used in containers and baskets, bringing a cascade of color.
Temperature Tolerance: Best in temperatures of 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Late April.
Zones 6-7: April.
Zones 8-10: March.
10. Lobelia (Lobelia erinus)
Lobelia adds a trailing element to planters and garden beds and blooms beautifully through spring.
Temperature Tolerance: Prefers cooler temperatures of 50°F to 80°F (10°C to 27°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Late April.
Zones 6-7: Early April.
Zones 8-10: March.
Herbs to Plant in Spring
Herbs can enhance your culinary creations and gardens alike. Here are ten herbs to consider for your spring planting.
1. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Basil flourishes in warm weather, making it a favorite herb for many gardeners.
Temperature Tolerance: Best grown at temperatures between 70°F and 90°F (21°C to 32°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Wait until late May.
Zones 6-7: Start in mid-April.
Zones 8-10: March.
2. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)
Chives are a hardy perennial that can tolerate frost, making them ideal for spring planting.
Temperature Tolerance: Can thrive in temperatures as low as 30°F (-1°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Early April.
Zones 6-7: March.
Zones 8-10: February to March.
3. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
Parsley is a versatile herb that can be planted early in the season.
Temperature Tolerance: Can germinate in soil temperatures down to 50°F (10°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Early April.
Zones 6-7: Late March.
Zones 8-10: March.
4. Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum)
As a cool-season herb, cilantro can thrive in the mild temperatures of spring.
Temperature Tolerance: Prefers temperatures of 50°F to 85°F (10°C to 29°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: April.
Zones 6-7: Late March.
Zones 8-10: February to March.
5. Dill (Anethum graveolens)
Dill is another herb that grows quickly and thrives in spring weather.
Temperature Tolerance: Ideal at temperatures around 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: April.
Zones 6-7: Late March.
Zones 8-10: February to March.
6. Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
Oregano is a perennial herb that loves sunny conditions and can handle chilly weather.
Temperature Tolerance: Prefers temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Late April.
Zones 6-7: Early April.
Zones 8-10: March.
7. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Similar to oregano, thyme is resilient and can prosper in varying conditions.
Temperature Tolerance: Thrives between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Late April.
Zones 6-7: Early April.
Zones 8-10: March.
8. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Rosemary is a robust herb that loves warmth and can be started in late spring in cooler climates.
Temperature Tolerance: Prefers temperatures above 70°F (21°C) and cannot handle frost.
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Late May to June.
Zones 6-7: Mid-April.
Zones 8-10: March.
9. Sage (Salvia officinalis)
Sage is tough and drought-resistant, making it ideal for various gardens.
Temperature Tolerance: Best at 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Late April.
Zones 6-7: Mid-April.
Zones 8-10: March.
10. Mint (Mentha spp.)
Mint is a vigorous grower and can handle cooler conditions, making it perfect for the early spring garden.
Temperature Tolerance: Thrives in temperatures from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: April.
Zones 6-7: Early March.
Zones 8-10: February to early March.
Landscape Plants to Plant in Spring
In addition to edible plants, spring is also an ideal time to invest in landscape plants that will enhance the beauty of your outdoor spaces. Here are ten durable landscape plants to position in your garden this spring.
1. Forsythia (Forsythia x intermedia)
Forsythia is a great choice because of its bright yellow blooms that signal the arrival of spring.
Temperature Tolerance: Can withstand temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: April.
Zones 6-7: Early March.
Zones 8-10: Late February.
2. Lilacs (Syringa spp.)
Lilacs are cherished for their fragrant purple blooms and can thrive even in colder areas.
Temperature Tolerance: Tolerate temperatures down to -40°F (-40°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Early April.
Zones 6-7: March.
Zones 8-10: Not recommended for planting.
3. Bleeding Heart (Lamprocapnos spectabilis)
The unique heart-shaped flowers of the bleeding heart make it a popular choice for spring gardens.
Temperature Tolerance: Thrives in temperatures between 55°F and 70°F (13°C to 21°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Mid-April.
Zones 6-7: Late March.
Zones 8-10: Not usually planted.
4. Daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.)
Daylilies are adaptable perennials with colorful flowers that typically bloom in early summer.
Temperature Tolerance: Can survive in temperatures ranging from -30°F to 100°F (-34°C to 38°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Early April.
Zones 6-7: Mid-April.
Zones 8-10: Late February to March.
5. Coneflower (Echinacea spp.)
Coneflower is a drought-tolerant perennial that attracts pollinators and offers beautiful blooms.
Temperature Tolerance: Thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Late April.
Zones 6-7: Early April.
Zones 8-10: March.
6. Hydrangeas (Hydrangea spp.)
Hydrangeas are early flowering shrubs that provide massive blooms and a touch of elegance.
Temperature Tolerance: Prefer warm conditions but can tolerate cold down to -20°F (-29°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Late April.
Zones 6-7: Early April.
Zones 8-10: March.
7. Azaleas (Rhododendron sp. )
Azaleas offer stunning blooms in various colors and are great for shaded areas.
Temperature Tolerance: Ideal in temperatures of 40°F to 80°F (4°C to 27°C) and should not be planted in frost.
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Wait until May.
Zones 6-7: Mid-April.
Zones 8-10: March.
8. Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)
Japanese maples add striking foliage to landscapes but require careful planning.
Temperature Tolerance: Prefers 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C) and must be protected from frost.
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Late April to May.
Zones 6-7: Early to mid-April.
Zones 8-10: March.
9. Hostas (Hosta spp.)
Known for their lush foliage, hostas are fantastic for shade gardens and have various leaf colors and textures.
Temperature Tolerance: Tolerate cold down to -30°F (-34°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Early April.
Zones 6-7: Late March.
Zones 8-10: February to March.
10. Sedum (Sedum spp.)
Succulent and drought-resistant, sedums are hardy perennials that require minimal maintenance.
Temperature Tolerance: Can survive in various temperatures, even into the high 30s°F (around 2°C).
Planting Dates:
Zones 3-5: Late April to May.
Zones 6-7: Mid-April.
Zones 8-10: March.
Conclusion
The arrival of spring heralds the joy of planting and growing. With the right information and planning, you can cultivate an abundant garden filled with colorful flowers, hearty vegetables, fragrant herbs, and stunning landscape plants. Remember to consider your USDA hardiness zone and the specific temperature tolerances of each plant.
