Spring is just around the corner, and now is the perfect time to start seeds indoors so they’ll be ready to plant as soon as the weather warms up. By starting seeds early, you’ll give your plants a head start, ensuring a more bountiful garden when May rolls around. Whether you’re growing flowers, vegetables, or herbs, getting your seeds started now means a head start on the growing season.
From tomatoes and peppers to zinnias and marigolds, some plants need a bit more time indoors to establish strong roots before being moved outside. Starting them early can lead to faster growth and bigger harvests.
Discover 21 seeds to start now, and be ready to fill your garden with vibrant blooms and fresh, homegrown produce in May!
Basil
Basil is not just a delightful culinary herb; it’s also a joy to grow. Known for its aromatic leaves, basil thrives in sunny kitchen windowsills. Planting it now ensures you’ll have plenty of fresh leaves for your summer salads and pasta dishes. This herb appreciates warmth and a bit of attention, rewarding you with lush, fragrant foliage. With its rapid growth and sweet aroma, basil is a must-have for any herb enthusiast.
Tomato
Tomatoes are a gardener’s favorite, offering a burst of flavor and color in the summer. Starting them indoors now gives them a head start, leading to an early and abundant harvest. With proper care, you’ll enjoy juicy, ripe tomatoes by May. Whether you’re a fan of cherry tomatoes or larger varieties, these plants promise to be the star of your garden. Their versatility in cooking and fresh salads makes them indispensable.
Bell Pepper
A staple in many dishes, bell peppers are as versatile as they are colorful. Starting seeds indoors now allows them to develop strong roots, ready for transplanting in May. These vibrant vegetables add a sweet, crisp texture to meals and are perfect for stuffing. With colors ranging from green to red, yellow, and purple, bell peppers brighten up any dish. Their growth journey from seed to plate is truly rewarding.
Cucumber
Cucumbers bring a refreshing crunch to salads and sandwiches. Starting seeds now ensures vigorous plants that will climb and produce cucumbers all summer long. These plants prefer a sunny spot and plenty of space to sprawl. With a little support from a trellis, cucumbers thrive, offering an abundant harvest of crisp, refreshing fruits. Perfect for pickling or fresh eating, cucumbers are a garden staple.
Zucchini
Zucchini is known for its prolific nature, providing a generous bounty throughout the growing season. Starting seeds now allows for early development, and these plants grow rapidly once established in the garden. Zucchini thrives in rich soil and enjoys full sun, producing tender, flavorful vegetables. Perfect for grilling, baking, or sautéing, zucchini is a versatile addition to any garden. Its rapid growth and high yield make it a favorite.
Carrot
Carrots are a root vegetable that can be started early to ensure sweetness and tenderness. They prefer loose, sandy soil to develop their long, slender roots. Starting them now allows for a continuous harvest throughout the summer. These vibrant orange roots are not only nutritious but also add color to any dish. Carrots are perfect for snacking, cooking, or adding to salads, offering a burst of flavor with each bite.
Spinach
Spinach is a cool-weather crop that thrives in early spring. Starting seeds indoors now ensures a steady supply of fresh leaves as the weather warms. This leafy green is packed with nutrients and adds a fresh, mild flavor to salads and smoothies. Spinach grows quickly, and regular harvesting encourages more leaf production. It’s a garden favorite for its health benefits and ease of growth, making it a valuable addition to your plant lineup.
Lettuce
Lettuce is a garden staple, offering a range of textures and flavors that enhance any salad. Starting seeds now provides a head start for a continuous supply of fresh leaves. Lettuce prefers cooler temperatures, making it ideal for early spring planting. With varieties like romaine, butterhead, and leaf, there’s a type for every preference. Regular harvesting keeps the plants productive and your salads crisp and delightful.
Beetroot
Beetroot is a versatile vegetable, known for its earthy flavor and nutritional benefits. Starting seeds early in the season allows these roots to develop fully by May. They thrive in well-drained soil and require consistent moisture for the best growth. Beetroot offers both edible roots and leaves, making it a double-duty plant in the garden. Its vibrant color and unique taste add depth to any dish, from salads to roasted vegetables.
Radish
Radishes are one of the fastest-growing vegetables, perfect for impatient gardeners. Starting seeds now means you’ll enjoy crisp, peppery roots by May. They thrive in cool weather and can be planted in succession for continuous harvests. Radishes are perfect for adding a spicy kick to salads or as a crunchy snack. Their quick growth and minimal care requirements make them an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike.
Kale
Kale is a hardy green that thrives in early spring’s cool weather. Starting seeds now ensures a bountiful supply of nutritious leaves as the season progresses. This leafy green is celebrated for its health benefits, including high vitamin content. With its robust growth, kale is perfect for smoothies, salads, and healthy chips. It tolerates cooler temperatures and can be harvested continuously, making it an essential garden addition.
Parsley
Parsley is more than just a garnish; it’s a flavorful herb that enhances many dishes. Starting seeds indoors now helps them acclimate and thrive throughout the season. This herb prefers sunny to partially shaded spots and benefits from regular watering. Parsley’s vibrant green leaves add freshness to dishes and are rich in vitamins. It’s a must-have for herb enthusiasts seeking to add depth to their culinary creations.
Cilantro
Cilantro brings a burst of flavor to any dish, especially in cuisines like Mexican and Asian. Starting seeds now ensures you’ll have fresh leaves ready for your culinary adventures by May. This herb thrives in cooler temperatures and needs regular watering to flourish. Cilantro’s unique flavor profile makes it a staple in many recipes, from salsas to garnishes. Its versatility and ease of growth make it a rewarding plant to cultivate.
Peas
Peas are a delightful addition to any garden, offering sweet, tender pods that are a joy to eat. Starting seeds now allows these climbers to establish themselves, promising a generous harvest by May. They thrive with support, such as a trellis, and appreciate cooler temperatures. Peas are perfect for snacking fresh off the vine or adding to your favorite dishes. Their rapid growth and ease of care make them a gardener’s favorite.
Onion
Onions are a kitchen staple, essential for adding flavor to countless dishes. Starting seeds early gives them the time they need to mature by the end of spring. Onions prefer well-drained soil and full sun, thriving with minimal care. Their versatility in cooking makes them invaluable, whether used raw in salads or cooked in savory dishes. With their long storage life, onions are a practical and rewarding addition to any garden.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a nutritious vegetable that enjoys cool weather, making early spring an ideal time to start seeds. As the plants mature, they develop dense, flavorful heads perfect for cooking. Broccoli thrives in rich soil with consistent moisture. Its robust growth and versatility in the kitchen make it a favorite among gardeners. Whether steamed, roasted, or raw, broccoli adds a healthy crunch to meals.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is celebrated for its versatility and subtle flavor. Starting seeds now allows these plants to develop firm, white heads by spring. They thrive in cool conditions and require regular watering to flourish. Cauliflower’s culinary uses are diverse, from creamy soups to roasted florets. This vegetable’s unique texture and adaptability make it a standout in any garden, promising a rewarding harvest.
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a cool-season crop with a long growing period, making early planting essential. Starting seeds now gives them ample time to develop by late spring. These plants appreciate well-drained soil and full sun. Brussels sprouts are known for their unique, nutty flavor, especially when roasted. Their striking appearance and distinctive taste make them a delightful addition to any garden and table.
Swiss Chard
Swiss chard is a colorful leafy green known for its resilience and nutritional value. Starting seeds now ensures a steady supply of its tender leaves throughout spring. This plant thrives in various conditions, making it adaptable for different gardens. Swiss chard’s striking stems add visual appeal, and its mild flavor complements many dishes. This versatile green is perfect for salads, sautés, and more.
Eggplant
Eggplant is cherished for its rich flavor and culinary versatility. Starting seeds indoors now allows them to grow into robust plants ready for transplanting. They thrive in warm conditions and appreciate full sun. Eggplants are perfect for grilling, baking, or adding to hearty dishes. Their attractive purple fruits and glossy leaves make them a visually appealing addition to gardens. With proper care, they promise a plentiful harvest.
Pumpkin
Pumpkins are synonymous with autumn festivities, but their journey begins in early spring. Starting seeds now gives them the long growing season they require. These sprawling vines enjoy sunny, spacious areas and benefit from regular watering. Pumpkins offer a bountiful harvest, perfect for pies, decorations, and more. Their large, vibrant fruits and sprawling growth make them a standout in any garden plot.