April is the perfect time to get your garden growing, but choosing the right crops can make all the difference in how successful your harvest will be. With warming temperatures and longer days, many vegetables and herbs thrive when planted now—giving you a delicious, homegrown bounty in just a few months!
In this article, we highlight 18 must-plant crops for April. From fast-growing greens and root vegetables to heat-loving summer favorites, these crops will set your garden up for a season of success. Don’t miss your chance to plant these high-yield, easy-to-grow favorites before it’s too late!
Spinach
Enjoy homegrown spinach in your salads by planting it this April. This leafy green flourishes in cooler temperatures, making it perfect for spring. It’s packed with nutrients and grows quickly, providing fresh produce in just a few weeks. Plant it in well-drained soil, and keep it hydrated for optimal growth. Be sure to place it in an area with partial shade for the best results. Regular harvesting will encourage continuous growth, and you can enjoy multiple crops throughout the season.
Carrots
Carrots are a fantastic root vegetable to plant in early spring. They thrive in loose, sandy soil that allows their roots to expand freely. Rich in beta-carotene, fresh carrots are not only healthy but also versatile in the kitchen. Keep the soil moist and avoid overcrowding the seeds for the best yield. Consistent thinning of young plants will encourage larger carrot growth. By planting in April, you ensure a sweet and crisp harvest later in the season.
Lettuce
Lettuce is a staple for fresh salads and sandwiches, and April is an excellent time to plant it. This leafy green loves the cool weather and provides a quick harvest. Choose from a variety of types like romaine or butterhead, each offering a unique texture and taste. Sow seeds in succession to enjoy a continuous harvest throughout the spring. Ensure they receive plenty of water and some shade from the afternoon sun to prevent wilting.
Radishes
Radishes bring a peppery crunch to dishes and are among the fastest-growing vegetables, making them perfect for impatient gardeners. Plant them in April to enjoy fresh radishes in just a few weeks. They prefer cooler temperatures and can be grown in almost any soil type. Keep the soil moist and thin seedlings to allow room for the roots to develop properly. Their quick growth makes them a great choice for succession planting.
Peas
April is the ideal month for planting peas, a cool-season crop that delights with sweet pods. Whether you prefer snow peas or sugar snaps, these plants love the crisp air. Provide them with a trellis to climb and ample sunlight. Ensure the soil is well-drained, and keep it consistently moist. By mid-spring, you’ll be rewarded with a bountiful harvest of crisp, sweet peas perfect for eating fresh or adding to various dishes.
Beets
Beets are a versatile vegetable that thrives in cool weather, making April the perfect time to plant them. They prefer well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Sow seeds directly into the garden, and thin seedlings for optimal growth. Both the roots and greens are edible, offering a range of culinary possibilities. Regular watering encourages tender beets, and harvesting can begin once they reach a desirable size. Enjoy them roasted, pickled, or fresh.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a nutrient-rich vegetable that benefits from a spring planting. It loves the cooler temperatures of April and needs fertile, well-drained soil to thrive. Provide consistent moisture and consider using mulch to retain soil moisture. The heads will develop best with plenty of sunlight, and you can enjoy harvesting them once they are firm and tight. Whether steamed, roasted, or raw, homegrown broccoli is a delicious addition to meals.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower, with its creamy white florets, is a delightful spring crop. Planting in April allows it to mature in the cooler weather it favors. Ensure it has rich soil and consistent watering for the best results. Cover the developing heads with leaves to prevent discoloration from the sun. As it matures, you’ll find it a versatile ingredient, perfect for various culinary delights. Harvest when the heads are compact and firm.
Cabbage
Cabbage thrives in the cool temperatures of early spring, making April an ideal planting time. It requires fertile soil with good drainage and plenty of sunlight. Regular watering will support steady growth, leading to a dense head ready for harvest. Whether you prefer green or red cabbage, both add a delightful crunch to dishes. Enjoy them in slaws, stir-fries, or fermented as sauerkraut, adding both flavor and nutrition to your meals.
Swiss Chard
Swiss chard adds color and nutrition to your spring garden. Its vibrant stems and glossy leaves make it as beautiful as it is nutritious. Plant chard in April to enjoy it throughout the growing season. It thrives in well-drained soil and requires regular watering. Harvest the outer leaves for continuous growth, and use them in salads, soups, or sautés. Its slightly earthy taste complements various dishes, making it a versatile addition to your garden.
Onions
Onions are a kitchen staple and planting them in April provides an early start for a rewarding harvest. They prefer fertile, well-drained soil and consistent watering. Choose from a variety of types, such as red, white, or yellow onions, each offering unique flavors. As they grow, ensure they receive plenty of sunlight. By late spring, you’ll have a supply of fresh onions to enhance your culinary creations, from salads to main courses.
Potatoes
Potatoes are a versatile crop that thrives when planted in early spring. They require well-drained soil and regular hilling to encourage tuber development. Plant certified seed potatoes in April for a bountiful harvest. They’ll need consistent moisture and plenty of sunlight. As the plants grow, mound soil around them to protect developing potatoes. Harvest when the foliage begins to yellow, and enjoy them in various dishes.
Kale
Kale is a hardy green that flourishes in the cool weather of April. It requires well-drained soil and regular watering for the best growth. Sow seeds directly into the garden and thin seedlings to allow room for mature plants. Kale’s slightly bitter taste adds depth to salads, soups, and smoothies. Regular harvesting encourages new growth, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh leaves. Enjoy the health benefits of kale all season long.
Turnips
Turnips are a dual-purpose crop, offering both edible greens and roots. Planting them in April takes advantage of the cooler weather they prefer. They thrive in well-draining soil, and consistent watering will encourage tender roots. Thin seedlings to allow space for larger turnip development. Enjoy them roasted, mashed, or raw in salads. Turnip greens add a peppery flavor to dishes, providing versatility in the kitchen.
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a rewarding crop that requires patience, making April an excellent time to plant them. They thrive in cool weather and need fertile, well-drained soil. Provide consistent moisture and consider staking taller plants. As the sprouts develop along the stalk, they’ll be ready for harvest in the fall. Enjoy them roasted or steamed, offering a nutty flavor to meals. Their gradual growth offers anticipation and satisfaction.
Leeks
Leeks bring a mild onion flavor to dishes and are perfect for spring planting. They prefer fertile, well-drained soil and consistent watering. Plant leeks in April to enjoy them throughout the growing season. As they grow, mound soil around the bases to blanch the stems. This technique enhances their flavor and tenderness. Harvest when they reach the desired size, and enjoy in soups, stews, or as a savory side dish.
Arugula
Arugula offers a peppery punch to salads and is easy to grow in April. This leafy green thrives in cool weather and requires well-drained soil. Regular watering will keep the leaves tender and flavorful. Plant arugula seeds in succession for a continuous harvest, and pick leaves when young for the best taste. Whether enjoyed fresh or in sandwiches, arugula adds a zesty kick to any dish, making it a staple in spring gardens.
Collard Greens
Collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine and thrive when planted in April. They prefer fertile soil and consistent watering. Space plants adequately to allow for unrestricted growth. As they mature, the leaves offer a mild, cabbage-like flavor. Harvest the outer leaves regularly to encourage continuous production. Whether sautéed or used in wraps, collard greens provide a nutritious and delicious addition to meals.