Planting Guide for 20 Most Popular Vegetables

Early Spring Planting (As soon as soil can be worked)

  • Peas: Plant 4-6 weeks before last frost
  • Spinach: Direct sow as soon as soil is workable
  • Lettuce: Can tolerate light frosts, plant early
  • Radishes: Quick-growing, plant every 1-2 weeks
  • Carrots: Soil temperature of 40°F or higher

Mid-Spring Planting (After last frost)

  • Tomatoes: Plant after soil warms, typically late spring
  • Peppers: Need warm soil, plant 2-3 weeks after last frost
  • Beans (Bush & Pole): Plant when soil reaches 60°F
  • Cucumbers: Require warm soil, plant after last frost
  • Zucchini & Summer Squash: Warm soil lovers

Late Spring/Early Summer Planting

  • Corn: Requires warm soil, plant when temperature consistently above 60°F
  • Eggplant: Needs very warm conditions, late spring planting
  • Okra: Extremely heat-tolerant, plant in early summer
  • Melons: Require warm soil, plant late spring/early summer

Late Summer/Early Fall Planting

  • Broccoli: Cool-season crop, plant for fall harvest
  • Cauliflower: Best in cooler temperatures
  • Kale: Tolerates frost, can be planted late summer
  • Swiss Chard: Grows well in cooler temperatures

Year-Round Considerations

  • Onions: Can be planted early spring or fall
  • Garlic: Best planted in fall for next year’s harvest

Planting Tips

  • Always check your specific USDA hardiness zone
  • Use local extension office guidance
  • Consider microclimates in your garden
  • Rotate crops yearly to maintain soil health
  • Use season extenders like row covers for marginal conditions