What to Plant in Early Spring in the US

Early spring is one of the most exciting times for gardeners in the United States. The weather begins to warm, the days grow longer, and the soil becomes workable. Planting during early spring allows you to take advantage of the cool season, grow cold-hardy crops, and prepare for a continuous harvest throughout the season. This guide will help you decide what to plant, how to care for your crops, and tips to maximize growth even if late frosts occur.

1. Vegetables for Early Spring

Vegetables are the backbone of any productive garden. Early spring planting focuses on crops that can tolerate cool soil and occasional frost. Choosing the right varieties and planting them at the right time ensures a strong start to your growing season.

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens are ideal for early spring because they grow quickly, tolerate frost, and provide fresh greens for your meals.

• Spinach: Spinach grows best in cool weather and can survive light frost. Sow seeds directly into the soil as soon as it is workable. Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding and water regularly to maintain even soil moisture. Harvest leaves when they are tender for the best flavor.
• Lettuce: Lettuce thrives in cooler temperatures and can bolt in heat. Early spring planting can be direct-seeded or started indoors for transplanting. Use cold frames or row covers to extend the growing season. There are many varieties, including romaine, butterhead, and leaf lettuce, each with slightly different growing needs.
• Kale: Extremely cold-hardy, kale can survive frost and even snow. Sow seeds directly outdoors or transplant seedlings. It prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. Regular harvesting encourages new growth, making it a long-lasting crop for spring gardens.
• Arugula: Arugula is fast-growing and can be harvested in as little as three to four weeks. It thrives in cool weather, but make sure to harvest regularly to prevent bolting. Arugula adds a spicy flavor to salads and sandwiches.

Root Vegetables

Root vegetables like radishes and carrots are perfect for early spring. They germinate quickly and tolerate cooler soil temperatures.

• Radishes: Radishes are among the fastest-growing vegetables. Sow seeds directly in the soil, spacing them according to the variety. Thin seedlings to avoid overcrowding. Harvest early for tender, mild roots or allow them to mature for a spicier taste.
• Carrots: Carrots need loose, well-drained soil to grow straight roots. Sow seeds thinly in rows and keep the soil moist. Some varieties can tolerate light frost, making them excellent early spring crops.
• Beets: Beets are versatile, providing edible roots and greens. They tolerate cool temperatures well. Sow seeds directly in the soil and thin seedlings to encourage proper root development. Beet greens can be harvested early for salads.
• Turnips: Turnips grow quickly and tolerate frost. Sow seeds directly and thin seedlings for optimal growth. Both roots and greens are edible and nutritious.

Alliums

Alliums, such as onions and garlic, are hardy and can be planted in early spring for a summer or fall harvest.

• Onions: Onions can be planted from seeds, sets, or transplants. They prefer well-drained soil and a sunny location. Early planting ensures strong bulb development. Fertilize moderately to encourage growth.
• Garlic: Plant garlic cloves in late winter or early spring for a summer harvest. Choose a sunny spot with fertile soil. Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Leeks: Leeks are planted early and have a long growing season. They tolerate cool temperatures and benefit from regular watering and fertilization.

Other Early Crops

Several other vegetables are perfect for early spring planting:

• Peas: Sugar snap, snow, and shelling peas can be sown as soon as the soil is workable. Provide support with trellises or stakes. Peas thrive in cool weather and can produce multiple harvests if picked regularly.
• Potatoes: Plant seed potatoes 2–4 weeks before the last frost date. Chitting (pre-sprouting) helps ensure faster growth. Keep the soil consistently moist and mound soil around the stems as they grow.
• Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower: Start these vegetables indoors or plant frost-hardy transplants outdoors. They grow best in cool weather and may need protection from unexpected late frosts.

2. Herbs

Herbs add flavor to meals and can thrive even in early spring. Many herbs are cold-hardy or perennial, making them suitable for early planting.

• Parsley: Frost-tolerant and easy to grow. Sow seeds directly in the soil or start indoors. Parsley grows best in rich, well-drained soil with regular watering.
• Cilantro: Prefers cooler temperatures and may bolt quickly in heat. Plant in early spring for continuous harvest. Thin seedlings for proper growth.
• Chives: A perennial herb that tolerates frost. Harvest leaves regularly to encourage fresh growth.
• Thyme and Mint: Hardy perennials that can be planted early. Mint spreads aggressively, so container planting is recommended. Thyme grows slowly but benefits from early planting for strong roots.

3. Flowers for Early Spring

Flowers bring color and life to early spring gardens. Many tolerate frost and bloom before summer.

• Pansies and Violas: Hardy and colorful, these flowers tolerate light frost. Plant in well-draining soil with regular watering. They provide cheerful early blooms.
• Snapdragons: Cold-tolerant annuals that bloom in cool weather. They are perfect for borders or container planting.
• Primroses: Hardy and vibrant, primroses thrive in cool temperatures. They are ideal for early spring beds or containers.
• Calendula: Frost-tolerant and edible petals. Sow seeds directly in the garden for a long-lasting bloom season. Calendula also attracts beneficial insects.

4. Early Spring Planting Tips

To maximize your early spring garden, consider these important tips:

• Know your last frost date: Consult your local USDA zone map or gardening resources to determine when it is safe to plant tender crops.
• Prepare the soil: Add compost or well-rotted organic matter to improve fertility and drainage. Work the soil to remove clumps and rocks.
• Use frost protection: Row covers, cloches, or cold frames can shield tender plants from unexpected frosts and help maintain warmth.
• Succession planting: Sow seeds in intervals to ensure a continuous harvest. This technique keeps your garden productive throughout the season.
• Watering and mulching: Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulch helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weeds.
• Monitor pests: Early spring can bring slugs and other pests. Inspect plants regularly and use organic or mechanical control methods.
• Harvest carefully: Pick leaves and vegetables regularly to encourage new growth and prevent bolting.

Early spring gardening in the US provides an excellent opportunity to grow cold-hardy vegetables, flavorful herbs, and colorful flowers. By following these planting tips, selecting the right crops, and protecting plants from frost, you can enjoy a productive garden from the very start of the season. Planning, soil preparation, and careful maintenance ensure that your garden thrives and provides fresh, healthy produce, flowers, and herbs throughout the early spring months.

With dedication and attention, your early spring garden can become the foundation for a productive and beautiful growing season. Start planning now, prepare your soil, select the right crops, and enjoy the satisfaction of harvesting fresh vegetables, vibrant herbs, and blooming flowers as the season progresses.