The last expected frost date is still several weeks away, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get your hands dirty in the garden and begin planting. Even if you are a beginner gardener, there is work to be done.
The Ides of March, which, if you aren’t up on your Shakespeare, is March 15th. This date was the first sign my mom instilled in me concerning when to start planting. Many gardeners seize this day as the start of their spring planting.
But before you head outside, there is something else you will want to check out.
The second thing to note is whether the soil is workable. Mother nature, surprisingly, does not always adhere to our schedules. Pick up a handful of dirt and squeeze it to see if it is ready. It is too wet if water is released or it forms a clump. But it is time to start if it breaks apart with minimal effort.
Let’s get started.
Not all vegetables are ready to go in the outside garden. Some require waiting out the last frost date, but there are many tasty and healthy options you can start with now. And if your area is big enough, just plant them all!
March:
- Peas
- Onions
- Asparagus
- Spinach
- Root vegetables (Carrots/ beets)
- Potatoes
- Collards
- Kale
April:
- Leeks
- Cabbage
- Swiss Chard
- Lettuce
Spring is an exciting time for gardeners, and there is so much work/fun just waiting for you, knowing what to plant and when is challenging. UDSA.gov will help you identify when you can grow tender vegetables that require warmer weather.
Gardening is more than planting seeds. It is about getting in touch with nature, the feel of your hands in the dirt. It’s about nurturing those seedlings, watching for pollinators, and getting excited by the first flowers that miraculously turn into peas and sprouts that hint at the carrots growing beneath the surface. It’s so much more. Planting a garden is to believe in a better tomorrow.
