As spring approaches, gardeners anticipate the vibrant blooms, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs that herald the season. Knowing what to plant at this time is vital to ensuring a thriving garden that contributes beauty and productivity. This article provides a comprehensive guide to various plants suitable for a spring garden, covering vegetables, flowers, herbs, and landscape plants to plant in spring across different regions.
Vegetables To Plant
Spring marks a pivotal time for gardening across many regions, particularly where winters are mild enough to allow for early planting. Here are ten vegetables to consider planting in spring, complete with temperature tolerances and recommended planting dates.
Peas
Peas are a fun and rewarding vegetable that can thrive in cool temperatures. They prefer temperatures between 40°F to 75°F, making spring an ideal time to sow the seeds in many regions. Depending on your area’s climate, you might plant peas as soon as the ground can be worked, typically in the southern states or after mid-spring in northern regions.
Spinach
Spinach is a highly resilient leafy green that can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F. For optimal growth, aim to plant spinach seeds in spring as soon as the soil is workable. Spinach germinates best at temperatures around 50°F to 60°F, making it an excellent choice for early spring planting.
Radishes
Radishes are quick-growing root vegetables that can be sown as early as late winter. They thrive in cooler temperatures, ideally between 50°F and 65°F. In areas with milder winters, you may start planting radishes in spring, while northern gardeners may want to wait until early March once the chance of frost has decreased.
Carrots
Carrots can be sown in spring in regions where the ground isn’t frozen. They prefer soil temperatures of about 45°F, and sowing can occur roughly from mid-spring to early summer, depending on regional climate. Carrots can be left in the ground for several months, making them a great crop to plant early.
Lettuce
Lettuce varieties are hardy and grow best at temperatures ranging from 45°F to 75°F. In spring, gardeners in zones 7 and warmer can start sowing seeds outdoors. For colder areas, consider starting lettuce indoors to transplant later or wait until late spring or early March.
Beets
Beets are another fantastic plant for early spring planting. They prefer slightly cooler temperatures of 60°F to 70°F. In warmer states, you can sow seeds directly into the ground in spring, while northern gardeners might wait until early March, ensuring a rich harvest in late spring.
Onions
Onions can be started as seeds, sets, or transplants, and they flourish when planted in early spring. Ideal germination temperatures range from 45°F to 75°F. Depending on the region, planting can commence in mid to late spring, particularly in southern climates where the soil is workable.
Broccoli
Broccoli is both hardy and nutrient-rich, thriving in temperatures between 55°F and 70°F. For those in warmer climates, spring is perfect for direct sowing or starting transplants indoors. In northern climates, consider beginning seeds indoors and transplanting in late March or early April.
Chard
Swiss chard is a hardy leafy green that grows well in cooler temperatures, much like spinach and lettuce. The optimum soil temperature for sowing is around 50°F to 70°F. spring is a suitable time for planting chard in southern zones, while northern gardeners can plant in early March.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a gourmet vegetable that prefers cool growing conditions. The ideal temperature for cauliflower is around 60°F to 70°F. In southern regions, sow seeds in spring or transplant seedlings started indoors, while northern climates may require waiting until early March.
Flowers To Plant In Spring
As the chill of winter starts to recede, many gardeners begin to dream of blossoming flowers that can brighten up any landscape. Below are ten flowers suitable to plant in spring, designed to bring color and life back into your garden as spring unfolds.
Pansies
Pansies are delightful annuals known for their cheerful blooms and ability to withstand frosty conditions. They thrive best in cooler temperatures of 45°F to 75°F. In milder zones, they can be planted in pots or beds in spring, while in harsher climates, they may need to wait until later in the month or early March.
Snapdragons
Snapdragons are sturdy flowers that bloom in a variety of colors, ideal for planting in cooler weather. They prefer temperatures between 60°F and 70°F but can tolerate chilly conditions. spring is a great time to sow snapdragon seeds directly or start seedlings indoors for transplanting.
Sweet Peas
Sweet peas are fragrant climbing flowers that love the cold. They prefer temperatures between 50°F and 65°F for optimal germination. Planting in spring ensures you have a robust growth period leading into spring harvests of beautiful blooms.
Primroses
Primroses are some of the first flowers to bloom in spring, providing early color to your garden. They thrive in cooler weather and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F. Planting them in early spring can set the stage for a stunning display as spring unfolds.
Calendula
Calendula, also known as pot marigold, thrives in cooler climates and can be sown directly into the garden. It prefers temperatures of 45°F to 70°F. Planting calendula seeds in spring allows for early blooming and adds vibrant orange and yellow hues to your garden.
Foxglove
Foxgloves are tall, striking plants that can flourish in partial shade. They prefer cooler temperatures of around 55°F to 70°F. In milder regions, sow seeds in spring; for northern climates, consider starting them indoors to transplant later.
Columbine
Columbine is a hardy perennial that thrives in cooler weather. They can endure temperatures as low as 30°F. spring is an excellent time to sow columbine seeds in well-drained soil, as these plants add a unique charm with their distinct flower shapes.
dianthus
Dianthus, commonly called “pinks,” are hardy flowers that can tolerate chilly temperatures. They flourish best in temperatures between 50°F to 70°F. spring is a suitable time to plant dianthus seeds directly into the garden or start some indoors for later transplantation.
Phlox
Phlox is a perennial flower known for its clusters of colorful blooms. It does best in temperatures around 60°F to 75°F and can be planted in spring in southern regions, while northern gardeners should consider starting seeds indoors and transplanting after the frost.
Ornamental Kale
Ornamental kale is a striking plant with colorful leaves that can withstand frosts. These kale varieties prefer cooler temperatures and thrive best around 50°F to 60°F. spring planting will yield decorative foliage that lasts well into spring.
Herbs To Plant In spring
Nothing brightens a kitchen or garden quite like fresh herbs. In spring, there are many herbs that can be sown or started in preparation for spring. Below are ten herbs that you can plant this month, tailored for varying regions and temperature tolerances.
Parsley
Parsley is a versatile herb that can withstand cooler temperatures. It prefers to germinate at around 60°F to 70°F, so spring is an excellent time to start sowing seeds indoors or directly into the garden in milder climates.
Cilantro
Cilantro is great for cooler weather, and it prefers temperatures between 50°F and 70°F. In areas that experience mild winters, sowing cilantro seeds directly into the soil in spring can yield a fresh herb that’s perfect for culinary use.
Chives
Chives are hardy perennials that thrive in cooler temperatures, making them an ideal choice for spring planting. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F, so you can sow them early, allowing for an early harvest come spring.
Thyme
Thyme is a hardy herb that can handle cooler temperatures. Ideal growing conditions for thyme are between 60°F and 70°F, so mid- to late-spring is a good time to plant seeds indoors and transplant them outside as temperatures warm up.
Oregano
Oregano is a favorite in many kitchens and can thrive well under cooler temperatures. It grows best around 60°F but can tolerate slightly lower temperatures. In regions with mild winters, sow oregano seeds directly in spring.
Dill
Dill is best grown in cooler conditions, preferring temperatures around 60°F. You can start dill seeds indoors in spring, setting the stage for an aromatic herb that will flourish into the warmer months.
Basil
Basil is typically a warm-weather herb, but starting seeds indoors in spring can provide a head start. Basil prefers temperatures above 70°F for germination, so ensure you provide some warmth indoors before transplanting outside in late spring.
Mint
Mint is a hardy perennial that thrives in a range of conditions. It grows best at temperatures between 60°F and 75°F, making it a good candidate to plant indoors in spring. This aromatic herb will flourish by the time spring arrives.
Tarragon
Tarragon is a perennial herb that does well in cooler temperatures. It can be sown in the garden in spring when temperatures are around 60°F. This herb is particularly valued for its flavor and culinary versatility.
Sage
Sage is a robust herb that can withstand cooler climates. It thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. Planting sage seeds or transplants in spring will ensure they establish themselves early on for a robust harvest throughout the growing season.
Landscape Plants To Plant In spring
As spring draws near, garden enthusiasts will find that spring is also a great time to plan and plant landscape varieties. Below are ten landscape plants that can be established during this month, bringing beauty and stability to your outdoor space.
Dogwoods
Flowering dogwoods are a robust choice for landscaping that thrives in numerous growing conditions. They prefer cooler temperatures and can be planted in spring in milder climates. The beautiful blooms and stunning fall foliage make this plant a favorite.
Forsythia
Forsythias are some of the first shrubs to bloom in spring, producing bright yellow flowers. They tolerate temperatures as low as -10°F and can be planted in most areas as soon as the ground is workable in spring.
Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas add elegant beauty to any landscape with their large, showy blooms. spring is a suitable time for early planting, particularly in warmer climates where they can tolerate temperatures down to 0°F. Hydrangeas appreciate well-drained soil and can flourish with proper attention.
Hellebores
Known as winter roses, hellebores are early bloomers that flourish in shade and partial sun. They can tolerate cold temperatures and can be planted in spring, bringing color to shaded areas even before spring takes hold.
Coral Bells
Coral bells are hardy perennials that provide colorful foliage, making them excellent landscape plants. They thrive in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F, and planting in spring allows ample time for their vibrant colors to develop.
Boxwood
Boxwoods are classic evergreen shrubs that can tolerate colder temperatures and can be planted in many regions in spring. Their adaptability and low maintenance make them a beloved choice for hedging and borders.
Camellias
Camellias offer stunning blooms in various colors and are well-suited for winter and early spring landscape planting. They can tolerate temperatures down to 15°F, allowing northern gardeners to include them in their designs by spring.
Lavenders
Lavender boasts fragrant foliage and stunning flowers typically enjoyed in gardens. It thrives well in warm and sunny locations and can be placed outdoors in spring for milder climates. In cooler areas, you might want to wait until the last frost passes before transplanting.
Peonies
Peonies are perennials admired for their large, fragrant blooms. They thrive in temperatures between 50°F to 70°F. Planting in late spring in southern areas ensures that these spectacular flowers can establish themselves before the blooming season.
Conclusion
Spring can be an exciting time for gardeners, setting the stage for a thriving spring garden. By understanding which vegetables, flowers, herbs, and landscape plants can be sown or planted early, you’ll be well-equipped to create a vibrant and diverse outdoor space. Regardless of your region, these recommendations will help you align your spring gardening efforts with the optimal conditions for growth, ensuring a magnificent garden as the season unfolds.
