As April showers give way to May flowers, gardeners everywhere eagerly prepare to sow the seeds of a bountiful harvest and vibrant blooms. With the soil warming and the days growing longer, there’s no better time to get your hands dirty and plant the garden of your dreams. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, here’s a comprehensive guide on what to plant in April to make the most of the growing season.
- Leafy Greens (Lettuce, Chard, Kale, Mustard/Mizuna, Collards): These nutrient-rich greens thrive in the cool temperatures of early spring. Succession sowings throughout the month ensure a continuous harvest of fresh, tender leaves. Spinach, a cool-season favorite, is best sown in early April to avoid bolting as temperatures rise.
- Root Crops (Beets, Carrots, Radish, Turnip): Take advantage of the cool, moist soil to sow root crops directly outdoors. Succession sowings of these crunchy vegetables ensure a steady supply throughout the season. Additionally, consider direct sowing kohlrabi alongside transplants for a variety of harvest times.
- Herbs (Cilantro, Dill, Calendula, Basil):Early to mid-April is the perfect time to sow herb seeds directly in the garden. These aromatic additions provide flavor to your culinary creations and attract beneficial insects to your garden. Don’t forget to include basil, a versatile herb that adds a burst of flavor to dishes and pairs beautifully with tomatoes.
- Peas:If the weather remains cool, consider an early to mid-April planting of peas. These cool-season legumes thrive in temperatures below 70°F (21°C) and can tolerate light frosts. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil, and provide support for climbing varieties.
- Cool-Season Cover Crops: Keep your garden beds healthy and fertile by planting cool-season cover crops such as oats, peas, vetch, tiller radish, and mustard. These crops protect the soil from erosion, suppress weeds, and add organic matter when tilled under.
Brassicas (Cabbage, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Kale, Kohlrabi): Early to mid-April is the ideal time to transplant brassicas into the garden. These cold-hardy crops benefit from an early start and thrive in the cool temperatures of spring. Provide adequate spacing and monitor for pests and diseases as they grow.
Fennel:Transplant fennel seedlings into the garden in mid to late April. This aromatic herb adds a subtle anise flavor to dishes and pairs well with fish, poultry, and vegetables.
Late Planting of Potatoes:For those feeling adventurous, consider a late planting of potatoes in early to mid-April. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil, and provide ample space for your potato plants to grow. With proper care, you can look forward to a delicious harvest later in the season.
- Tomatoes & Tomatillos (April 1st):Start tomato and tomatillo seeds indoors on April 1st for a head start on the growing season. These warm-season crops require ample sunlight and consistent moisture to thrive.
Late Sowings of Cabbage & Broccoli: For a late-season harvest, sow cabbage and broccoli seeds indoors in early April. These cold-hardy crops can be transplanted outdoors once the threat of frost has passed.
Brussels Sprouts (Early April):Start Brussels sprouts seeds indoors in early April for a fall harvest. These nutritious vegetables require a long growing season, making April the perfect time to get them started.
- Marigolds, Basil, Nasturtium, Peanuts (Mid April): Add a splash of color and flavor to your garden by sowing seeds of marigolds, basil, nasturtium, and even peanuts indoors in mid-April. These companion plants attract beneficial insects and provide culinary delights throughout the season.
Zinnias (Late April): Brighten up your garden beds and borders with the cheerful blooms of zinnias. Start seeds indoors in late April for an explosion of color throughout the summer months.
With this comprehensive planting guide, you’re well-equipped to make the most of April’s gardening opportunities. Whether you’re sowing seeds, transplanting seedlings, or nurturing established plants, the rewards of a well-tended garden are well worth the effort. Happy planting!
