Spring Veggie Gardens
Spring is the perfect time to start your vegetable garden! As the weather warms and the days grow longer, it’s time to prepare your soil, select your veggies, and get planting. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, planting a spring vegetable garden sets the stage for a bountiful harvest in the months to come. Here’s everything you need to know to get started, including the best time for planting starters, recommended soil amendments, and ideal planting areas in your garden.
Best Time to Plant Spring Starters
Timing is key when planting a spring vegetable garden. The right time to plant depends on your local climate and the type of vegetables you’re growing. In Central California, you can typically begin planting spring vegetables after the last frost date, which is around mid to late March.
Cool-Season Crops
If you’re eager to get a head start, cool-season crops like:
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Kale
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Peas
…can be planted as early as February in most climates. These veggies thrive in cooler temperatures and can withstand light frosts.
Warm-Season Crops
For warm-season vegetables, wait until the soil has warmed to about 60°F (around mid to late March). Some great options include:
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Cucumbers
- Squash
- Beans
Make sure to check the seed packets or plant tags for the best planting time in your zone!
Soil Amendments for a Healthy Garden
Healthy soil = a thriving garden! Before planting, prepare your soil to give your veggies the best chance to grow strong and productive.
Best Soil Amendments for Spring Veggies:
Compost – Improves soil structure, adds nutrients, and encourages beneficial microbes.
G&B Organics Harvest Supreme – A rich organic soil amendment that improves drainage and moisture retention, while providing essential nutrients.
Chicken Manure – Adds nitrogen to promote leafy growth (use in moderation to avoid burning plants).
Worm Castings – A natural fertilizer that boosts plant health and root development.
G&B Organics Soil Building Conditioner – Ideal for breaking up clay soil and improving drainage.
Tip: Mix 2-3 inches of compost or soil amendment into your planting beds about two weeks before planting to give the soil time to settle and nutrients to distribute.
Choosing the Right Areas to Plant in Your Garden
Where you plant matters! Different vegetables have different sunlight and space requirements.
Full Sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight):
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Squash
- Cucumbers
- Beans
Partial Sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight):
- Lettuce
- Kale
- Spinach
- Carrots
- Beets
Shaded or Filtered Sunlight (2–4 hours):
- Leafy greens
- Herbs like parsley and cilantro
Raised Beds vs. In-Ground Planting
Raised Beds: Great for improving drainage and controlling soil quality. They warm up faster in the spring, which allows you to start planting sooner.
In-Ground: Best for larger gardens and deep-rooted crops like carrots and potatoes.
Final Tips for a Thriving Spring Veggie Garden
Start small – It's better to have a well-maintained small garden than an overwhelming large one.
Rotate crops – Avoid planting the same veggies in the same spot each year to prevent soil nutrient depletion and pest buildup.
Mulch – Add mulch around your plants to retain moisture, reduce weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Water consistently – Most spring vegetables need about 1–2 inches of water per week.
Spring is a season of growth and renewal, and there’s no better way to embrace it than by starting a veggie garden. With the right timing, healthy soil, and proper placement, you’ll enjoy a delicious and abundant harvest all season long!
