Not sure what to plant in the spring vegetable garden? No problem! I have you covered. Let’s let your taste buds and your growing zone guide you in what to plant in your spring garden this year!
Tiny buds on the tips of tree branches, pink blossoms peeking through, daffodils dancing… all of these things call out that spring is two weeks away! I can hardly believe it, and while our winter has been pretty mild, I have to say that I’m beyond excited for warmer weather to be on its way. I’m also thrilled to begin planting my garden, and one of my favorite things to do is to plan what I’ll be planting. While I’m not a type-A person who needs everything written down and planned, there is something about making garden plans that puts me in a good mood.
So, how do you decide what to grow in your spring garden? Well, there are some factors to consider before you start buying plants and seeds.
Grow what you will eat
I know this may seem like an obvious question, but I’ve run into a few gardeners in my time who grow things even though they don’t really like to eat them. Don’t waste the space. Think about what both you and your family enjoy, and grow those things! My family loves tomatoes, cucumber, squash, and okra, so these are always staples in my garden. They’re not such big fans of eggplant (unless it’s breaded and fried), so I only grow one or two plants. Always consider what you’ll actually eat.
Here are some spring favorites:
- Sugar Snap Peas
- Pole Beans (all varieties, but we love Dragon’s Tongue)
- Radishes ( especially French Breakfast)
- Early Beets
- Romaine Lettuce
- Arugula
- Kale (Lacinato is delicious!)
- Potatoes (red, white, or yellow)
- Cilantro
- Early Squash and Zucchini
What grows well in your area
Season specific- While you may absolutely love Brussel sprouts, you’ll probably want to wait for your later summer/fall garden to plant these. Check the tag on any plants or seeds you’re considering purchasing and know your zone. This will keep you from being disappointed about that failing mid-summer collard green patch.
Many seed packages have great information on the back about when those seeds should be planted based on zone. Not sure what zone you’re growing in? Check out the Hardiness Map.
Space to work with
Spring companion plants
- Growing basil is a great addition to your spring salads
- marigolds are beautiful to the eye and a lovely garden addition (they’re also edible if you’re willing to give them a try)
- Zinnas, which will grow taller than many garden veggies, add height and color and are perfect for cutting and decorating indoors.
- Take up what you can, like peas and sugar snap peas. These leaves more room below for growing!
