What to Plant Right Now: A Guide to Early Season Gardening

As the weather begins to warm up and the days get longer, gardeners everywhere are itching to get outside and start planting. But what exactly should you be planting at this time of year? Here鈥檚 a guide to what to plant right now for a successful early season garden.

H2: Plan Your Garden

Before you start putting seeds in the ground, it鈥檚 a good idea to plan out your garden for the season. Think about what you want to grow, how much space you have, and what kind of soil and sun exposure you鈥檙e working with. Take a look at seed catalogs or visit your local nursery to see what varieties are available and what will work best in your area. Make sure to think about crop rotation and companion planting, as well.

H2: Cool-Weather Crops

Early season gardening is all about cool-weather crops that can handle the chilly temperatures of spring. These include leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, and kale, as well as root vegetables like carrots, beets, and radishes. Peas and broccoli are also good options for early planting. Make sure to sow these seeds directly into the ground, as they don鈥檛 transplant well.

H2: Seed Starting

If you want to get a head start on your gardening season, you can start some seeds indoors. This is particularly useful for warm-weather crops like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant, which require a longer growing season than cooler weather crops. Use a seed starting mix and start your seeds in small containers. Make sure to keep them in a warm, well-lit spot and keep the soil moist until they sprout.

H2: Soil Preparation

Before you start planting, make sure your soil is ready for your seeds. Enrich your soil with compost or other organic matter to help improve soil structure and fertility. If you鈥檙e planting in raised beds, you can also add a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

H2: Watering

Young seedlings and newly planted seeds need consistent moisture to grow properly. Make sure to water regularly, especially during dry spells. Water deeply to encourage deeper root growth and to prevent shallow roots from being damaged in hot weather.

H2: Pest and Disease Control

Early season gardening can be particularly susceptible to pest and disease issues. Make sure to keep an eye out for common garden pests like aphids, slugs, and snails, and take steps to control them if necessary. You can use organic methods like companion planting and insecticidal soap to keep pests at bay. Stay vigilant for signs of disease like powdery mildew or fungal infections, as well, and take steps to prevent their spread.

In conclusion, early season gardening can be a rewarding and satisfying way to start your gardening season. By planting cool-weather crops, starting seeds indoors, preparing your soil, and using good gardening practices, you can set your garden on the path to success. Good luck and happy gardening!