April is the perfect time to kickstart your garden and plant a variety of thriving crops that will grow beautifully throughout the season. With the weather warming up, it’s the ideal moment to introduce plants that will reward you with lush blooms and bountiful harvests later in the year.
In this article, we share 22 things you should be planting in April for a thriving garden. From cold-hardy vegetables to early-blooming flowers, these plants are suited for the spring climate and will set the foundation for a vibrant and productive garden. If you want to maximize your garden’s potential, these April planting recommendations will ensure a flourishing outdoor space all season long!
Tomatoes
Tomatoes thrive in warm weather, and April is the ideal time to start them. Choose from heirloom varieties for unique flavors or cherry tomatoes for a quick-growing option. Begin by planting seeds indoors or directly in the garden if frost isn’t a concern. Ensure they receive plenty of sunlight and regular watering. As they grow, support them with stakes or cages to maintain structure. With proper care, tomatoes will not only enhance your culinary creations but also add vibrant color to your garden.
Basil
Basil is a fragrant herb that complements any garden, adding aroma and flavor to your dishes. Plant seeds in well-drained soil with ample sunlight. Basil thrives in warm conditions, making April an ideal month to start. Regular harvesting encourages bushy growth, providing a steady supply for pesto or salads. Consider companion planting with tomatoes to enhance growth and deter pests. With minimal effort, basil becomes a culinary staple, offering more than just its delightful scent.
Carrots
Carrots are a versatile root vegetable, perfect for early spring planting. Their sweet, crunchy texture is a hit in various dishes. Sow seeds directly into the garden in loose, well-drained soil. Maintaining consistent moisture levels is key to preventing misshapen roots. Thin seedlings to avoid overcrowding, giving each plant room to develop fully. Enjoy the rewarding experience of pulling fresh carrots from your garden, knowing you’re nurturing a healthy, organic treat.
Lettuce
Lettuce is a cool-weather crop, making it an excellent choice for April planting. Its crisp leaves come in a multitude of varieties. Choose from butterhead, romaine, or loose-leaf types to suit your taste. Directly sow seeds in partial shade to protect from harsh sunlight. Regular watering ensures tender leaves. Harvest outer leaves for a continuous supply, and introduce new seeds every few weeks for a prolonged harvest season.
Peas
Peas thrive in cool weather and are one of the first vegetables to plant in spring. Their sweet pods are a delightful addition to any meal. Sow seeds directly into the soil, ensuring they’re in a sunny spot with good drainage. As they grow, provide support with a trellis or stakes. Enjoy the crisp, sweet taste of fresh peas straight from your garden. With minimal care, they offer a bountiful harvest.
Spinach
Spinach is a nutrient-rich leafy green, ideal for planting in early spring. Its rapid growth allows for multiple harvests throughout the season. Sow seeds directly into the garden, providing ample water and partial shade. Regularly pick leaves to encourage new growth and prevent bolting. Spinach is not only versatile in the kitchen but also contributes to a healthy lifestyle. Its presence in your garden is both functional and rewarding.
Radishes
Radishes are a quick-growing vegetable, perfect for impatient gardeners. Their peppery flavor adds a kick to salads and dishes. Plant seeds directly in the garden, ensuring the soil is loose and well-drained. Radishes mature quickly, often ready to harvest in just a few weeks. Regular watering and thinning ensure the best results. Experience the satisfaction of harvesting vibrant radishes, knowing they were grown with care and attention.
Zinnias
Zinnias bring vibrant color and cheer to any garden. These hardy annuals are easy to grow from seed in well-drained soil. Plant them in a sunny spot, ensuring they have space to flourish. Regular deadheading encourages continuous blooming throughout the season. Zinnias attract butterflies, adding movement and life to your garden. Their dazzling displays make them a favorite among gardeners seeking low-maintenance beauty.
Marigolds
Marigolds are vibrant flowers known for their pest-repelling properties. Plant seeds in sunny areas to ensure healthy growth. They thrive in April’s mild weather and require minimal maintenance. Regular deadheading prolongs their blooming period, providing continuous color. These flowers are not only beautiful but also beneficial, acting as a natural deterrent against garden pests. Their bright blooms uplift any garden space with their cheerful presence.
Beets
Beets offer a dual harvest of tasty roots and nutritious greens. Sow seeds directly in loose soil for optimal growth. They prefer cool temperatures, making early spring ideal for planting. Ensure consistent moisture levels to prevent woody roots. Thin seedlings to allow room for development, and soon you’ll enjoy both tender greens and sweet beets. Their earthy flavor enhances numerous dishes, proving their versatility in the kitchen.
Cilantro
Cilantro is a versatile herb, adding a fresh, citrusy flavor to dishes. Plant seeds in well-drained soil with partial shade, as cilantro prefers cooler temperatures. Regularly harvest leaves to prevent bolting and encourage lush growth. This herb thrives in the garden, offering continuous harvests for your culinary needs. Whether in salsas, curries, or salads, cilantro enhances a variety of dishes, making it a must-have in every garden.
Chives
Chives are a hardy perennial herb, perfect for April planting. Their mild onion flavor complements many dishes. Sow seeds or plant transplants in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Regular harvesting keeps them productive, and their beautiful purple flowers are edible too. Use chives to enhance soups, salads, and more. This low-maintenance herb is a wonderful addition to any garden, offering both culinary and ornamental value.
Pumpkins
Pumpkins require a longer growing season, and planting them in April ensures ample time for development. These sprawling vines need space, so choose a location with room to grow. Directly sow seeds in nutrient-rich soil. Regular watering and sunlight are crucial for healthy growth. As pumpkins mature, their size and color make them a standout feature in any garden. Enjoy their versatility in cooking, from soups to pies.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are a refreshing addition to any garden, thriving in warm, sunny conditions. Plant seeds in nutrient-rich soil, ensuring regular watering. As vines grow, support them with a trellis to maximize space and air circulation. Enjoy a harvest of crisp cucumbers ready to enhance salads and snacks. Their rapid growth and prolific yield make them a rewarding choice for any gardener, providing a refreshing taste of summer.
Sunflowers
Sunflowers add height and vibrant color to gardens. These stunning flowers are easy to grow, requiring only a sunny spot and well-drained soil. Plant seeds directly into the garden, and with regular watering, they’ll reach impressive heights. Sunflowers provide more than just visual appeal; their seeds are a tasty snack for both humans and wildlife. Their towering presence and cheerful blooms make them a delightful addition to any outdoor space.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a cool-season vegetable, perfect for planting in April. These nutrient-rich plants require well-drained soil and consistent moisture. Start seeds indoors or directly sow them in the garden. As the plants mature, regular harvesting of the central head encourages side shoots. Broccoli’s health benefits make it a worthwhile addition to any garden, offering a delicious and nutritious option for meals.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower thrives in cool spring temperatures, making it ideal for April planting. This versatile vegetable requires rich soil and consistent watering. Whether starting from seeds or transplants, ensure they have space to grow. Regular care results in large, firm heads, ready to enhance your culinary creations. Cauliflower’s adaptability makes it a favorite among those seeking healthy, homegrown produce.
Strawberries
Strawberries offer a sweet reward for your gardening efforts. Plant bare-root strawberries or transplants in well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Regular watering and mulching help retain moisture and prevent weeds. As they establish, these perennial plants provide a bountiful harvest of juicy strawberries year after year. Their sweet taste is a delightful addition to desserts and snacks, making them a favorite in any garden.
Peppers
Peppers are a versatile addition to any garden, offering both heat and sweetness. Start seeds indoors or directly sow them in warm soil with full sun exposure. Regular watering and rich soil ensure healthy growth. As plants mature, vibrant peppers in various colors and flavors will emerge. Whether you prefer sweet bell peppers or spicy varieties, they enhance a wide range of dishes, making them a valuable garden staple.
Parsley
Parsley is a hardy herb, perfect for adding fresh flavor to dishes. Plant seeds in well-drained soil, ensuring they have partial shade. Regularly harvest leaves to promote continuous growth and prevent bolting. This herb thrives in the garden, offering a steady supply of vibrant, aromatic greens. Its versatility in the kitchen makes parsley a valuable addition, whether used for garnishing or adding depth to recipes.
Corn
Corn is a staple crop, best planted in April for a summer harvest. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil to sow seeds. Regular watering and fertilization support their growth. As stalks reach towering heights, the promise of sweet corn on the cob becomes a reality. Corn’s delightful flavor and nutritional value make it a rewarding garden choice. Enjoy fresh corn grilled, boiled, or roasted, savoring its sweet taste.
Squash
Squash is a prolific producer, perfect for planting in April’s warming temperatures. Whether you choose summer or winter varieties, plant seeds directly in nutrient-rich soil. Regular watering and full sun exposure promote healthy growth. Watch as vibrant flowers give way to delicious squash. This versatile vegetable enriches a variety of dishes, from savory to sweet. Its abundant yield ensures plenty to enjoy throughout the growing season.