Image courtesy of [Toa55] / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
The following is a guide to which plants need to be planted in which season. More specific planting times depend in what particular climate you will be planting. To find out your climate zone and specific planting dates visit the 2012 USDA Zone Hardiness Map.
Cool Season Plants
These plants need to grow when the climate is cool so the ideal planting time is in early spring or late summer.
- Asparagus
- Artichoke (spring only)
- Broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
- Cabbage
- Carrots
- Greens (some are season specific)
- Green onion (spring only)
- Garlic (fall only)
- Lettuce
- Cauliflower
- Onions (fall only)
- Parsnips
- Peas
- Potatoes (spring only)
- Radishes
- Rutabagas
- Spinach
- Turnips
Warm Season Plants
These plants need to grow during the warmest months so plant in late spring or early summer.
- Beans
- Corn
- Cucumbers
- Eggplants
- Melons
- Peppers
- Summer squash
- Winter squash
- Tomatoes
Both Seasons
- Arugula
- Beets
Extending Your Season
Image courtesy of [zirconicusso] / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Are you in a zone with a short growing season? No need to worry, there are a few ways to lengthen the time you have to grow.
- Start seeds indoors and then transfer the plant outside once they have reached seedling size and the weather is appropriate. A grow light can be very helpful when starting seeds inside.
- Start seeds outdoors in a cold frame or greenhouse and then transfer the seeds into the ground once they have reached seedling size and the weather is appropriate.
- Root plants (carrots, green onion, beet, etc) do not transfer well, so, cover these with plastic to protect them from cold weather.
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Wonderful post! We are planning to start gardening this spring so I love getting ideas and tips! Keep it up, loving the site!