As we see the last of the frost we need to start thinking about early spring planting. Here are some Spring garden tips:
Flowers
Pansies – Will withstand late seasons frosts. Prefer cool weather and tend to decline with the onset of warmer weather.
Roses – If necessary, transplant roses as soon as the ground can be worked in late March or early April. Bare-root roses should be planted immediately after purchase. If planting must be delayed, place the bare-root roses in a cool location, such as the garage or refrigerator until they can be planted.
Sunflowers can be started now in pots indoors or direct sown into garden borders.
Nasturtiums can be sown in pots and modules now. Wait until after all risk of frost has passed to plant in beds.
Finish sowing Petunia seeds under cover this month to ensure the plants reach a good size in time for the summer.
Plant marigolds now in warmth to brighten up your summer bedding.
Vegetables
Radishes – Spring radishes are a cool season crop. They can be planted as soon as the ground can be worked in late March or early April. Most cultivars mature in 20 to 30 days.
Broccoli, Cauliflower, and Cabbage – Broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage are cool-season vegetables, which grow best in temperatures between 60 and 70 F. However, exposure to prolonged periods of temperatures below 50 F may cause problems.
Lettuce, Spinach, Collards, and Kale – Quality of these plants are reduced with the onset of hot weather due to seed heads and bitter taste.
Onions – Plant onion seeds, sets, and plants as soon as the ground can be worked in spring
Peas – Garden, snow, and snap peas should be planted as soon as the ground can be worked in spring. The crop should be mature in approximately 60 to 70 days.
Carrots – Carrots can be sown from early spring to early August. For an early crop, sow seeds in early to mid-April.
Potatoes – Plant certified disease-free potatoes as soon as the ground can be worked in spring. Large potato tubers should be cut into pieces, each containing 1 or 2 growing points or “eyes”. Small potatoes may be planted whole.
