Spring is a time of renewal, warmth, and growth — an ideal season for gardeners to sow the seeds of their labor. Planting vegetables in spring not only provides a bountiful harvest later in the year but also enriches your gardening skills, allows you to enjoy the outdoors, and enhances your culinary experiences.
In this guide we’ll explore various vegetables that thrive in spring, detailing the specifics of their planting and care.
Artichokes
Artichokes (Cynara scolymus) are perennial vegetables that can be grown successfully in spring. These striking plants produce large, edible flower buds and thrive in U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) hardiness zones 7-11.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Start seeds indoors about 10-12 weeks before the last frost, or plant seeds outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
Soil Requirements: Choose well-drained soil enriched with compost. The ideal pH is around 6.5 to 7.0.
Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow for their wide spread.
Watering: Artichokes prefer consistent moisture. Water deeply and regularly, particularly during dry spells.
Care and Harvesting
Sunlight: Artichokes need full sun, ideally 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Fertilizing: Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer in early spring to promote robust growth.
Harvest: Harvest the buds when they are firm and tightly closed, typically in late spring or early summer.
Arugula
Arugula (Eruca sativa), known for its peppery flavor, is a fast-growing leafy green that loves cooler temperatures, making it perfect for early spring planting.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly in the garden as soon as the soil can be worked in spring, typically 2-4 weeks before the last frost.
Soil Requirements: Plant in fertile, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Space seeds about 1 inch apart, and later thin to 4-6 inches apart for optimal growth.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Ensure consistent moisture as arugula can bolt quickly in heat.
Sunlight: While it can tolerate partial shade, arugula grows best in full sun.
Harvest: Begin to harvest leaves once they reach about 3-4 inches long. Regular harvesting encourages more growth.
Asparagus
Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) is a perennial vegetable that requires patience but rewards gardeners with years of harvest once established.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Plant crowns (one-year-old plants) in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked.
Soil Requirements: Asparagus thrives in sandy loam soil with a pH of 7.0 to 8.0.
Spacing: Dig trenches 12-18 inches apart, and space crowns 12-18 inches within the trench.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, particularly during dry periods.
Sunlight: Requires full sun for at least 8 hours each day.
Harvest: Allow the plants to grow for the first two years before harvesting. In year three, you may harvest spears that are 6-8 inches tall for 2-3 weeks.
Beet
Beets (Beta vulgaris) are root vegetables that thrive in cool weather, making spring planting ideal for this colorful and nutritious option.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly in the garden in early spring, 2-4 weeks before the last frost.
Soil Requirements: Beets prefer loose, well-drained soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Plant seeds 1 inch apart in rows 12-18 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Beets do best with consistent moisture, especially during their root development phase.
Sunlight: Full sun is preferred, though they can tolerate some shade.
Harvest: Beets can be harvested when they are 1-3 inches in diameter. Pull them by hand or use a garden fork to avoid damaging the roots.
Broccoli
Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. Italica) is a nutrient-rich vegetable that thrives in cooler weather and can be successfully planted in the spring for an early summer harvest.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date or sow them directly outdoors in early spring.
Soil Requirements: Broccoli grows best in rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Space plants 18-24 inches apart in rows that are 24-30 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Water regularly, ensuring consistent moisture, particularly when the heads are forming.
Sunlight: Require full sun for optimum growth.
Harvest: Cut the central head before the buds begin to flower, ideally when the heads are firm and tight.
Snow Peas
Snow peas (Pisum sativum var. macrocarpon) are sweet, edible-pod peas that are a delightful addition to any spring garden.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Plant seeds as soon as the ground can be worked, typically 4-6 weeks before the last frost.
Soil Requirements: These peas thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Sow seeds 1-2 inches apart in rows 3-4 feet apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Maintain even moisture, especially during germination.
Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade is acceptable.
Harvest: Pick snow peas when the pods are flat, approximately 2-3 inches long. Regular picking encourages more production.
Carrots
Carrots (Daucus carota) are sweet, crunchy root vegetables that are easy to grow in spring and are a staple in many kitchens.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly into the garden 2-3 weeks before the last frost.
Soil Requirements: Carrots prefer loose, well-drained soil with minimal stones, with a pH of 6.0 to 6.8 to promote smooth root growth.
Spacing: Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart, thinning them to 3-4 inches apart once they germinate.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Carrots need consistent moisture throughout the growing season.
Sunlight: Full sun is ideal, although they can tolerate some shade.
Harvest: Carrots can be harvested when they reach a desirable size, usually around 1/2 inch in diameter. Loosen the soil before pulling to avoid breaking the roots.
Celery
Celery (Apium graveolens) is a cool-season vegetable that thrives in spring, providing a crunchy, flavorful addition to salads and soups.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Start seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last frost or transplant nursery-grown seedlings outdoors when temperatures are consistently above 50°F.
Soil Requirements: Celery requires rich, loamy, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Space plants 10-12 inches apart in rows 24 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Celery needs high humidity and consistent moisture, watering daily if necessary.
Sunlight: It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Harvest: Harvest celery when the stalks are crisp and stand upright. Cut them off at the base, leaving the roots intact for possible additional growth.
Swiss Chard
Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla) is a resilient leafy green that is known for its attractive, colorful stems and is perfect for spring planting.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly in the garden 2-4 weeks before the last frost.
Soil Requirements: Swiss chard grows best in full sun but can handle partial shade in rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5.
Spacing: Sow seeds 1 inch apart, thinning to about 6-8 inches apart once seedlings are established.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist throughout the growing season.
Sunlight: Full sun is preferred, but chard can tolerate some shade.
Harvest: Harvest outer leaves regularly, allowing the inner leaves to continue to grow. Leaves can be cut at the base or snapped off.
Fennel
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is often praised for its unique flavor profile and can be grown successfully in spring, especially in milder climates.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Direct sow seeds outdoors after the last frost or start seeds indoors and transplant.
Soil Requirements: Fennel prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Space plants 12-18 inches apart, allowing sufficient room for bulb development.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Ensure consistent moisture, particularly during bulb formation.
Sunlight: Grow in full sun for optimal flavor and growth.
Harvest: Fennel bulbs should be harvested when they are about 3-4 inches in diameter. Cut the bulb just below the soil level.
Garlic
Garlic (Allium sativum) is a quintessential garden crop, easy to grow and invaluable in the kitchen. While traditionally planted in fall, spring planting is also an option in milder climates.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Plant garlic cloves in spring 2-4 weeks before the last frost.
Soil Requirements: Garlic thrives in well-drained loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Plant cloves 2 inches deep, spaced 4-6 inches apart, in rows that are one foot apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Water well after planting and maintain consistent moisture until the plants mature.
Sunlight: Full sun is essential for optimal growth.
Harvest: Garlic is mature when the lower leaves turn brown. Carefully dig them up to avoid damage; cure them in a dry area for several weeks before storing.
Kale
Kale (Brassica oleracea var. sabellica) has surged in popularity due to its health benefits. This hardy green vegetable is perfect for the spring garden.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Start seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost or sow them directly outdoors in early spring.
Soil Requirements: Grow kale in fertile, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Space plants 12-18 inches apart in rows 24-30 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells.
Sunlight: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Harvest: Pick outer leaves as needed, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing.
Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi (Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes), with its unique bulbous shape, is a versatile vegetable that can be eaten raw or cooked. It thrives in cooler spring weather.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly in the garden 2-4 weeks before the last frost or start indoors 4-6 weeks prior.
Soil Requirements: Requires well-drained soil rich in nutrients with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Space plants 8-12 inches apart, and thin them to this distance once they are established.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Ensure consistent moisture, particularly during bulb formation.
Sunlight: Full sun is ideal for healthy growth.
Harvest: Kohlrabi is ready to harvest when the bulbs are 2-3 inches in diameter. Cut them just below the soil level, leaving some leaves for continued growth.
Leek Onions
Leek onions (Allium ampeloprasum var. porrum) are a versatile and flavorful vegetable belonging to the onion family. They have a mild flavor and are often used in soups, stews, and sautéed dishes.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost, or sow them directly in the garden around 2 weeks before the last frost.
Soil Requirements: Leeks prefer rich, well-draining soil, rich in organic matter, with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0.
Spacing: If starting indoors, transplant fleshy seedlings to the garden when they’re about 6-8 inches tall, and space them 6-8 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, particularly during dry spells, as leeks require adequate water for optimal growth.
Sunlight: Full sun is preferred for robust growth, but leeks can tolerate partial shade.
Harvest: Harvest leeks when they are about 1-2 inches in diameter, ideally before the first frost. They can be lifted from the soil carefully to avoid damage.
Lettuce
Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is a fast-growing leafy green that thrives in cool spring weather, making it a staple in spring gardens.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly into the garden as soon as the soil can be worked, usually 2-4 weeks before the last frost.
Soil Requirements: Lettuce prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Space seeds about 1 inch apart, later thinning plants to 10-12 inches apart for larger varieties.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Lettuce needs consistent moisture, particularly during hot weather, to prevent bolting (going to seed).
Sunlight: Full sun is best, though some shade can help prevent bolting in warmer temperatures.
Harvest: Harvest leaves when they are young and tender. For loose-leaf varieties, pick the outer leaves as needed, while heading types should be cut at the base when heads are firm.
Radishes
Radishes (Raphanus sativus) are one of the quickest vegetables to grow and are perfect for early spring planting. These crunchy, spicy roots are a delightful addition to salads and stir-fries.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly in the garden 4-6 weeks before the last frost date.
Soil Requirements: Radishes prefer well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0 and benefit from a light application of compost.
Spacing: Sow seeds ½ inch apart and thin seedlings to 2-4 inches apart once they are established.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Maintain consistent moisture to ensure quick growth and to prevent pithiness.
Sunlight: Full sun is ideal, though radishes can also tolerate partial shade.
Harvest: Radishes can be harvested as soon as they reach a desirable size, usually about 3-4 weeks after planting. Pull them out gently from the soil to avoid splitting.
Rhubarb
Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) is a perennial vegetable often treated as a fruit, thanks to its tart flavor. It’s one of the first plants to emerge in spring, providing a crisp addition to pies and preserves.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Ideally, rhubarb is planted in fall, but it can also be planted in early spring once the ground is thawed.
Soil Requirements: Requires rich, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter, with a pH of 6.0 to 6.8.
Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow for their large size.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods.
Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade is suitable for healthy growth.
Harvest: Do not harvest in the first year to allow the plant to establish. In subsequent years, harvest stalks when they are 10-12 inches long but avoid harvesting the first year or two to ensure robust growth. Cut stalks at the base.
Sugar Snap Peas
Sugar snap peas (Pisum sativum var. macrocarpon) are sweet, crunchy peas that can be eaten whole, including the pods. Their growth in cool weather makes them an excellent choice for spring planting.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly into the soil as soon as it can be worked in early spring, around 4-6 weeks before the last frost.
Soil Requirements: Prefer well-drained, loose soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
Spacing: Plant seeds 1-2 inches apart in rows 24-36 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells.
Sunlight: Full sun is favored, but sugar snap peas can tolerate light shade.
Harvest: Regularly harvest pods when they are plump and before they begin to bulge. They should feel firm and vibrant in color.
Spinach
Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) is a nutritious leafy green that thrives in cool weather, making it a fantastic choice for spring planting.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly in the garden 2-4 weeks before the last frost.
Soil Requirements: Spinach prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0.
Spacing: Sow seeds approximately 1 inch apart and thin seedlings to 3-6 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Maintain consistent soil moisture; spinach thrives in well-watered conditions.
Sunlight: Full sun is ideal, but spinach can also flourish with some afternoon shade as temperatures rise.
Harvest: Harvest outer leaves when they reach the desired size, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing. Be sure to harvest before flowering, as bolting can negatively impact flavor.
Spring Onions
Spring onions (Allium fistulosum) are young onions harvested before the bulb fully develops. They add a fresh onion flavor to dishes and are easy to grow in the spring.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly in the garden 2-4 weeks before the last frost or sow in late winter indoors.
Soil Requirements: Spring onions prefer well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of about 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Plant seeds ½ inch deep, in rows 12 inches apart; thin to 4-6 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Keep soil moist but not soggy; ensure good drainage to prevent rot.
Sunlight: Full sun is preferable for optimal growth.
Harvest: Harvest spring onions when they reach 6-8 inches tall. Do not wait too long; they can become tough if left in the ground too long.
Sweet Corn
Sweet corn (Zea mays) is a summer staple that can be started in late spring for a bountiful harvest. With its tall stalks and sweet kernels, corn is a fun and rewarding crop to grow.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly into the garden after the last frost when soil temperatures are at least 60°F.
Soil Requirements: Corn prefers fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.8.
Spacing: Sow seeds 1-2 inches deep, spaced 6-12 inches apart in rows about 30-36 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Water deeply and consistently to support growth; corn is a heavy feeder requiring adequate moisture.
Sunlight: Full sun is essential for optimum growth and sugar development in the kernels.
Harvest: Harvest corn ears when the kernels are plump and the silks are brown. You can pull back the husk slightly to check for ripeness.
Cardoons
Cardoons (Cynara cardunculus) are thistle-like vegetables that produce edible stalks and are often used in Mediterranean cuisine.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Start seeds indoors around 8-10 weeks before the last frost or direct sow in the garden after the last frost.
Soil Requirements: Cardoons prefer fertile, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to accommodate their large size.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Sunlight: Full sun is best for healthy stalk development.
Harvest: Harvest stalks when they are 1-2 feet tall. Cut the stalks at ground level, and blanch them for a few weeks before harvest to enhance their flavor.
Fiddlehead Ferns
Fiddlehead ferns (Matteuccia struthiopteris) are the coiled young shoots of ferns that appear in spring. They are an exquisite delicacy with a unique flavor.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Fiddleheads are typically foraged in spring, but you can cultivate ferns in shady spots; plant rhizomes in early spring.
Soil Requirements: They thrive in rich, moist, well-draining soil with a pH of 5.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Plant rhizomes with enough space to spread, typically 2-4 feet apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Keep the soil moist, particularly during hot spells.
Sunlight: Prefers partial to full shade.
Harvest: Harvest fiddleheads when they are 2-4 inches tall and before they unfurl. Cut them carefully at the base.
Sorrel
Sorrel (Rumex acetosa) is a perennial green with tart, lemony leaves. It’s an exceptional addition to salads or cooked dishes and thrives in cool spring weather.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly in the garden in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked.
Soil Requirements: Prefers nutrient-rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Sow seeds about 1 inch apart and thin seedlings to 12-18 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Keep the soil moist, especially during dry weather, as sorrel prefers plenty of moisture.
Sunlight: Full sun is ideal, but sorrel can tolerate partial shade.
Harvest: Pick leaves as needed, usually when they are young and tender. The leaves can be used fresh or cooked, and regular harvesting encourages continued growth.
Scallions
Scallions (Allium fistulosum) are young onions harvested before the bulb forms. They have a milder flavor compared to mature onions and can enhance various dishes.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly in the garden 2-4 weeks before the last frost, or start indoors and transplant them.
Soil Requirements: Prefer fertile, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Sow seeds ½ inch deep and thin to 2 inches apart, allowing for ample growth.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Ensure consistent moisture in the soil for optimal growth.
Sunlight: Requires full sun for best results.
Harvest: Harvest scallions when they reach about 6-8 inches tall by cutting them at the base. They can be enjoyed raw or cooked.
Shallots
Shallots (Allium ascalonicum) are a beloved culinary onion variety that adds sweetness and complexity to dishes. They are also well-suited to spring planting.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Plant shallot bulbs in early spring as soon as the soil is workable.
Soil Requirements: Prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Plant shallot bulbs about 1-2 inches deep and 6-8 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Maintain even moisture, particularly during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging.
Sunlight: Full sun enhances bulb growth.
Harvest: Harvest shallots when the tops start to yellow and fall over, typically late summer. Allow them to dry out before storage.
Nettles
Nettles (Urtica dioica) are nutrient-rich, culinary herbs that are often foraged growing wild. They have a unique flavor and are incredibly healthy.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds in spring after the last frost, or start indoors and transplant.
Soil Requirements: Nettles thrive in rich, damp, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
Spacing: Space seeds or seedlings about 12-18 inches apart, as they can grow quite large.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist; they thrive in wet environments.
Sunlight: Prefer partial shade, mimicking their natural habitat.
Harvest: Wear gloves when harvesting young leaves, as they can sting. Cut leaves at the top of the plant when they are young and tender, typically in spring.
Bok Choy (Pak Choi)
Bok choy is a flavorful Asian green that is easy to grow and quick to harvest. With its tender, edible leaves and crunchy stems, it can be enjoyed in stir-fries and soups. Bok choy thrives in cool weather, making it an excellent choice for spring planting.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly in the garden about 2-4 weeks before the last expected frost.
Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Space seeds about 1 inch apart and thin to 6-12 inches apart depending on the desired harvest size.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, as bok choy enjoys moist conditions.
Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade works well, especially in warmer climates.
Harvest: Harvest leaves when they are young and tender or wait until the heads form, cutting them at the base.
Mustard Greens
Mustard greens are fast-growing leafy greens known for their slightly peppery flavor. Packed with vitamins, they are perfect for salads, stir-fries, or cooked dishes. Mustard greens thrive in cooler temperatures, making them ideal for spring planting.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly in the garden as soon as the soil can be worked, about 2-4 weeks before the last frost.
Soil Requirements: Prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
Spacing: Plant seeds 1-2 inches apart and thin seedlings to 6-8 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.
Sunlight: Full sun is preferred, but mustard greens can tolerate partial shade.
Harvest: Start harvesting when leaves reach 4-6 inches tall. Pick the outer leaves to encourage growth of the inner leaves.
Leeks
Leeks are a perennial vegetable that belongs to the onion family, featuring a mild flavor that’s perfect for soups and stews. They thrive in cooler weather, making spring planting ideal for their growth.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost or sow them directly in the garden a couple of weeks before the last frost date.
Soil Requirements: Leeks enjoy rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: If starting indoors, transplant seedlings when they are about 6-8 inches tall, spacing them 6-8 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist for optimal growth.
Sunlight: Full sun is preferred for healthy leeks.
Harvest: Harvest leeks when they are 1-2 inches thick, lifting them from the ground carefully.
Cabbage
Cabbage is a versatile vegetable that can be used in salads, soups, and stews. It is a cool-season crop that can be planted in spring for summer harvests, making it a consistent favorite in many gardens.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, or sow directly outdoors 2-4 weeks before the last frost.
Soil Requirements: Requires fertile, well-drained soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 6.8.
Spacing: Space plants 12-24 inches apart in rows that are 24-36 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Regular watering is essential, particularly as heads develop.
Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth.
Harvest: Cut the head at the base when firm to the touch, typically in late spring to early summer.
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers, known for their crisp texture and sweet flavor, can be started in spring indoors and transplanted outdoors after the frost. They thrive in warm weather and can produce a generous yield.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Transplant outdoors after risk of frost has passed.
Soil Requirements: Prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.8.
Spacing: Space plants about 18 inches apart in rows that are 24-36 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Water regularly, especially during flowering and fruit development.
Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth and sweetness.
Harvest: Pick peppers once they reach full size and change color, typically red, yellow, or green, depending on the variety.
Zucchini
Zucchini is a prolific summer squash that can be directly seeded in late spring or started indoors for an earlier harvest. Its versatility in cooking and ease of growth make it a garden favorite.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly into the garden after the last frost date when the soil has warmed, usually in late spring.
Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of around 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Space seeds or seedlings 24-36 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Water deeply and consistently, particularly in dry spells.
Sunlight: Full sun is essential for good growth.
Harvest: Harvest zucchini when they are small to medium-sized, typically 6-8 inches long for the best flavor.
Tomatillos
Tomatillos, often used in salsas and Mexican dishes, are related to tomatoes but come enclosed in a papery husk. They thrive in warm weather and can be started indoors for an earlier harvest.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost or sow directly outdoors after the frost.
Soil Requirements: Prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Space plants about 24 inches apart in rows that are 36 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Water consistently during dry periods to ensure healthy growth.
Sunlight: Needs full sun for optimal fruit development.
Harvest: Harvest tomatillos when the husks are full and begin to split; the fruit inside should be firm and slightly glossy.
Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan)
Chinese broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable with a similar appearance to broccolini. It has a slightly bitter flavor and is often used in Asian cuisines. It grows well in cooler climates, making it suitable for spring planting.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly in the garden in early spring after the last frost date.
Soil Requirements: Prefers fertile, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5.
Spacing: Space seeds 1-2 inches apart and thin to 6-12 inches apart depending on desired size.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist to promote healthy leaf growth.
Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade is acceptable.
Harvest: Cut stalks when they are 6-8 inches long, including smaller leaves, for a tender harvest.
Pattypan Squash
Pattypan squash is a unique, scalloped summer squash with a buttery flavor. It can be both direct seeded and started indoors for an earlier harvest, making it an interesting addition to your spring garden.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly into the garden after the last frost or start indoors 2-4 weeks prior.
Soil Requirements: Prefers rich, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Plant seeds or seedlings 24-36 inches apart in rows 36-48 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Ensure consistent moisture, as pattypan squash need regular watering to thrive.
Sunlight: Full sun is essential for good growth and development.
Harvest: Pick pattypan squash when they are young and tender, typically around 3-5 inches in diameter.
Chard (Rainbow or Beet Greens)
Rainbow chard is a visually stunning and nutritious leafy vegetable that tolerates cool weather beautifully. Its brightly colored stems add a splash of color to gardens and plates alike.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds directly in the garden 2-4 weeks before the last frost date.
Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Space seeds about 1 inch apart and thin seedlings to 6-12 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist, particularly during dry periods.
Sunlight: Full sun works best, though it can tolerate partial shade.
Harvest: Pick outer leaves as needed, allowing inner leaves to mature and grow.
Peppers (Hot Varieties)
Hot peppers, such as jalapeños and serranos, can easily be grown from seeds started indoors in the spring. These peppers add a kick to any dish and can be dried or pickled for long-term storage.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost or sow directly after the frost.
Soil Requirements: Prefer well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.8.
Spacing: Space plants about 18 inches apart in sunny spots.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Water regularly, especially during flowering and fruit formation.
Sunlight: Needs full sun for the best flavor and heat levels.
Harvest: Pick hot peppers once they are firm, typically when they change color from green to red depending on the variety.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are a refreshing summer vegetable that grow well when seeded in late spring after the risk of frost has passed. They are perfect for pickling or enjoying fresh in salads.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Directly sow seeds in the garden in late spring after the last frost date when the soil is warm.
Soil Requirements: Requires rich, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Spacing: Sow seeds about 1 inch deep and space them 36-48 inches apart.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Water consistently to keep the soil moist but avoid waterlogging.
Sunlight: Full sun is ideal for producing flavorful cucumbers.
Harvest: Pick cucumbers when they are firm and 6-8 inches long for the best taste.
Chicory
Chicory is a hardy leafy green that can be grown for its leaves or roots. Often used as a coffee substitute when roasted, chicory is ideal for spring planting and can add a slightly bitter flavor to salads.
Planting Instructions
Timing: Sow seeds in early spring after the threat of frost has passed.
Soil Requirements: Thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
Spacing: Space seeds about 1-2 inches apart, thinning to 8-12 inches apart as they grow.
Care and Harvesting
Watering: Keep soil moist but well-drained.
Sunlight: Requires full sun, though it can tolerate partial shade.
Harvest: Harvest leaves when they reach a good size, or dig up roots in late fall for roasting.
