Spring Planting Guide: What to Grow in March, April and May
There’s a refreshing sense of optimism that comes with the first signs of spring. It’s almost as if we, as a community of gardeners, have collectively decided to forget last season’s challenges, like when the slugs launched an all-out attack on the lettuce patch.
As the frost finally retreats, making way for warmer days, it signals the start of a new growing season in the northern hemisphere. This is a time filled with potential for a thriving, vibrant garden. But here’s the catch: what you plant and when can mean the difference between a garden that flourishes and one that struggles to keep up.
Whether you’re just starting or looking to avoid the classic “I planted too early, and now everything’s wilted” scenario, this spring planting guide offers practical, tried-and-tested advice. From March to May, the potential is endless. Let’s make the most of it with trial and error and plenty of compost.
Start With the Weather, Not the Calendar
Before you rush outside with a handful of seed packets and visions of a thriving garden, take a moment to plan. Spring doesn’t arrive on the same day for everyone; it really depends on where you live.
In cooler areas like USDA zones 3 to 5 (think northern states and much of Canada), frosts can stubbornly linger into April or even May. Meanwhile, in warmer zones 7 to 9 (like the South and coastal regions), people are already soaking up the sun with their seedlings by late March or early April (well, almost).
The key to avoiding the heartbreak of frost-bitten plants is knowing your last frost date. You can find it easily by searching “what zone am I in” and using that info to figure out when it’s safe to plant. A little planning now will save you from seeing your young plants shivering through a late freeze.
What to Plant in May (Northern Hemisphere)
May marks a prime planting time for both cool-season and warm-season crops, but your zone greatly influences what will thrive. Here’s a breakdown:
UK & Northern/Central Europe (Zones 6–8)
- Start hardy vegetables outdoors: lettuce, spinach, kale, radishes, carrots, beetroot, and peas.
- Plant onion sets, shallots, and early potatoes towards the end of the month (once the soil is ‘diggable’).
- Indoors or under cover: Start tomatoes, peppers, aubergines (eggplants), brassicas, and leeks.
- Garlic can still go in if you forgot it last autumn—this is your last chance!
Northern U.S. & Southern Canada (Zones 3–7)
- Zones 6–7: Start hardy crops outside (peas, leafy greens, carrots).
- Zones 3–5: If your ground is still frozen, be patient. Start seeds indoors—especially tomatoes, peppers, broccoli, and cabbage.
- Use cold frames or cloches to extend your season if you’re eager to get started.
- Begin chitting potatoes indoors to get those sprouts going.
Southern U.S. & Mediterranean Climates (Zones 8–10)
- Your garden is likely already in action!
- Direct sow: beans, cucumbers, squash, corn, radishes, and carrots.
- Transplant: tomatoes, peppers, aubergines (if frost risk is gone).
- Continue succession sowing salad greens and herbs.
- Shade-loving or bolting-prone crops (like coriander) may already need partial shade.
May is also the ideal time to start growing the best vegetables to grow in March and April, especially in northern zones where the soil warms more slowly.
April: The Real Growing Season Begins
By April, gardens in most zones are really starting to wake up. The soil has warmed up, the days are getting longer, and, unfortunately, pests are also beginning to appear. Timing and maintenance become more crucial this month to keep your garden thriving.
What to Plant in April (Northern Hemisphere)
UK & Northern/Central Europe (Zones 6–8)
Direct sow hardy crops like carrots, beetroot, radish, peas, lettuce, and spinach.
Indoors, continue starting warm-weather crops such as tomatoes and squash.
Potatoes, onions, and spring garlic are ready to go into the ground.
Northern U.S. & Southern Canada (Zones 4–7)
Similar crops to Europe: hardy veggies and potatoes can go out once the soil is workable.
In cooler zones (3–5), the soil may still be a bit cold in early April—wait a week or two if it’s too soggy or frosty.
Seed-starting indoors is still an option for warm crops like tomatoes, aubergines (eggplants), and chillies.
Southern U.S. & Mediterranean Climates (Zones 8–10)
You’re already ahead! Transplant warm-season crops like squash, tomatoes, and cucumbers if your last frost date has passed.
Quick-growing salads, root crops, and succession sowing are still good bets.
As temperatures climb, focus on shading and mulching to keep soil moisture consistent.
Tips for April Gardening
Hardening Off: If you started seeds indoors earlier, now is the time to get them used to outdoor conditions. Gradually introduce them to sunlight and fluctuating temperatures.
Mulching Matters: Spread mulch around your plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pest Patrol: Check plants regularly for pests like aphids and beetles. Early intervention can save your crops.
What Works in May (Northern Hemisphere)
You might think midsummer is too late to plant, but July can actually be another wave of opportunity — especially if you’re planning for fall harvests. Here’s what to consider planting depending on your zone:
UK & Northern/Central Europe (Zones 6–8)
It’s prime planting time! Sow or transplant:
Root Veggies: Carrots, beetroot, radish
Leafy Greens: Lettuce, kale, chard
Legumes: Peas, beans
Warm-Season Crops: Courgettes (zucchini), squash, and all the flowers too
Transplant: Tomatoes, cucumbers, and pumpkins once the frost risk is gone (usually mid-to-late May).
Additional Crops: Plant sweetcorn, potatoes, and outdoor brassicas.
Herbs: Basil, dill, parsley, and coriander can now thrive outdoors.
Northern U.S. & Southern Canada (Zones 4–7)
Direct Sow: Corn, squash, beans, carrots, beets, salad greens.
Transplant: Tomatoes, peppers, melons, aubergines (eggplants) after your last frost (typically early to mid-May).
Succession Planting: Radishes, lettuce, arugula every couple of weeks to keep the harvest coming.
Warm-Season Herbs: Basil is a great addition now.
Southern U.S. & Mediterranean Climates (Zones 8–10)
You’re already in the maintenance and succession planting phase.
Quick Crops: Bush beans, cucumbers, okra, melons, and second rounds of squash.
Heat Management: Shade or mulch heat-sensitive crops to keep them thriving.
Harvesting: You’re likely already harvesting — keep feeding and water deeply to maintain productivity.
Tips for July Gardening
Consistent Watering: July heat can dry out shallow-rooted seedlings. Keep moisture levels consistent to avoid stress.
Mulch: A layer of compost or mulch helps retain soil moisture.
Succession Planting: Keep planting quick crops to ensure a continuous harvest.
A Note on Native Plants
If you’re planting ornamentals or pollinator-friendly gardens, this is the season to introduce native perennials, especially milkweed, echinacea, or black-eyed Susans. These thrive with less intervention and support local bee and butterfly populations.
Regional Timing Tip
Remember, what grows in Montreal in May may not work for Phoenix. Consult local extension offices or community garden groups for a hyperlocal planting calendar.
Closing Thought
Spring is less about perfect timing and more about being in tune with your zone, soil, and space. Whether you have a small raised bed or a backyard plot, March through May offers many possibilities. Plant with intention, water wisely, and enjoy watching your garden come alive.
Explore more beginner-friendly planting tips and zone-specific guides on Gardenstead, and let your garden reflect the rhythm of your region.