A Guide To Planting Vegetables

There is no smell greater than that of freshly turned earth. We have dreamed up the layout of the beds all winter. Now is the time to start planting your vegetable seeds. This guide to planting vegetables will walk you through where you can start the seeds and when you can safely put them outside.

Where to Start Vegetable Seeds

The first step in this guide to planting vegetables is where to start the seeds. While is is great to get a head start on growing, some plants do not transfer from pot to ground well. For this reason, we will discuss which seeds to sow directly into the ground and which you can germinate indoors.

Variable – while most varieties of these plants can be transplanted outdoors, check your specific seeds before planting inside.

Zucchini and Summer Squash – While you can start zucchini and summer squash inside, the rate at which they grow and produce is so fast, that it is not necessary. These are a great crop to plant many times throughout the summer months. Your friends and family will love your sharing heart.

Tomatoes – I recommended to purchase young plants at your local garden center if you do not start these indoors. The length from germination to harvest is long for tomatoes.

Now that you know where to start your seeds, lets get into exactly when you will want to start them.

When to Plant Vegetables

All vegetable planting is going to be based around the date of the last frost. In New England, that date is safely assumed to be around May 27th. This is why Memorial Day Weekend is a huge time for gardeners.

While lots of plants will be planted in the ground during Memorial Day weekend, some plants are more hardy and can withstand some frost. If getting a head start and planting indoors, the rule of thumb is to start your seedlings 6-8 weeks before they can be plated outside. Read on to see when each vegetable is safe to be placed into your garden.

What Vegetables to plant in Early to Mid Spring

There are many types of vegetables that can be started in early to mid spring. Peas, cole crops, onions, garlic, root vegetables and lettuce leaves will be your first crops. Plant these vegetables as soon as the ground stays around 45 degrees. This will be about 2-3 weeks before the last frost. Refer to the graph above for info on if they can be started indoors. If so, plant your seeds 6-8 weeks before this date.

• Cole Crops– Cole crops are any vegetable in the mustard family. They include Broccoli, Cauliflower, Brussel Sprouts, cabbage, Kale and Collard.
• Green Leaves– spinach and lettuce do not like the heat. Enjoy the leaves as long as you can before the summer sun turns them bitter.
• Root Vegetables– carrots, beets, potatoes, radishes…
• Peas– also dislike heat and will become bitter and stringy in the summer sun.
• Onions and Garlic

What Vegetables to Plant in Mid to Late Spring

The last frost has hit and you are safe to get all of your plants outdoors. This is when the planting really gets going with those classic summer vegetables. If easily transplanted, make sure to start these plants 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Refer to the graphic above to see what should be sown directly and what can be planted ahead indoors.

• Tomatoes
• Peppers
• Eggplant
• Summer Squash
• Zucchini
• Cucumbers
• Winter Squash and Gourds
• Melon
• Corn– Corn should be planted 2 weeks after the last frost

What Vegetables to Plant in Late Summer

Alas, our grow time is coming to an end. Squeeze in another harvest, by starting more plants that don’t mind the cold. Plant these in Late July to early August. 10-12 weeks before first fall frost.

• Beans
• Carrots
• Radish
• Peas
• Green Leafy Vegetables

Don’t forget to add some herbs to your garden. Check out the almanac for herb planting guidelines.

I hope this guide to planting vegetables has been helpful. While there are rules in place, don’t let time frames hold you back from planting. Taking care of a plant, no matter the outcome is a blessing. Want to be surrounded by the magic of plants inside too? Learn about the 10 easiest house plants here.

Comment below what you are going to plant and stay connected on instagram @bekahcressman

Keep Blooming! ~Bekah