Last Updated: September 2026

What to Plant in Spring: A Guide to Getting Your Garden Growing

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As the last wisps of winter fade away, spring is finally here. The air is filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, and the warm sun shines down on the earth. It's the perfect time to get outside and start planting. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide what to plant in the spring.

In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the best plants to put in the ground this time of year. From vegetables to flowers, we'll cover everything you need to know to get your garden growing.

Preparing the Soil

Before you can start planting, you need to make sure your soil is ready. Spring is the perfect time to add some much-needed nutrients to your soil, and to get rid of any debris or weeds that may have accumulated over the winter.

To prepare your soil, follow these simple steps:

Remove any debris or weeds from the garden bed
Add a 2-inch layer of compost or well-rotted manure to the soil
Mix in some fertilizer, such as a balanced fertilizer or a high-nitrogen fertilizer
Rake the soil to create a smooth, even surface

Vegetables to Plant in Spring

Spring is a great time to plant a variety of vegetables, including:

Leafy Greens

Lettuce
Spinach
Kale
Collard greens

These vegetables are easy to grow and can be harvested in as little as 20 days. They're perfect for salads, smoothies, and sautéing.

Brassicas

Broccoli
Cauliflower
Cabbage
Bok choy

These vegetables are some of the coolest-season crops, meaning they thrive in cooler temperatures. They're perfect for planting in early spring, and can be harvested in as little as 50 days.

Root Vegetables

Carrots
Beets
Radishes
Turnips

These vegetables are some of the easiest to grow, and can be harvested in as little as 30 days. They're perfect for snacking, roasting, and adding to salads.

Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes
Patio tomatoes
Heirloom tomatoes

While tomatoes are typically thought of as a summer crop, there are many varieties that can be planted in the spring. Look for varieties that are specifically bred for cooler weather, and plant them in a location that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.

Peppers

Bell peppers
Jalapeños
Anaheim peppers

Like tomatoes, peppers are often thought of as a summer crop, but there are many varieties that can be planted in the spring. Look for varieties that are specifically bred for cooler weather, and plant them in a location that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.

Flowers to Plant in Spring

Spring is a great time to plant a variety of flowers, including:

Bulbs

Tulips
Daffodils
Hyacinths
Crocuses

These bulbs are some of the easiest to grow, and can be planted in the fall or early spring. They're perfect for adding color and vibrancy to the garden.

Perennials

Roses
Peonies
Daylilies
Hostas

These perennials are some of the most low-maintenance plants you can grow, and can be planted in the spring or fall. They're perfect for adding color and texture to the garden.

Annuals

Marigolds
Zinnias
Petunias
Snapdragons

These annuals are some of the easiest to grow, and can be planted in the spring after the last frost. They're perfect for adding color and vibrancy to the garden.

Tips for Planting in the Spring

Planting in the spring can be a bit tricky, but with these tips, you'll be well on your way to a successful garden:

Make sure to plant at the right time. Different vegetables and flowers have different planting times, so make sure to check the specific planting times for each variety.
Start with easy-to-grow plants. If you're new to gardening, start with plants that are easy to grow, such as leafy greens or annuals.
Don't overwater. Spring weather can be unpredictable, and overwatering can be a major problem. Make sure to check the soil regularly, and only water when necessary.
Add a layer of mulch. Mulch can help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Conclusion

Spring is a great time to get outside and start planting. With the right plants, and a little bit of preparation, you'll be on your way to a successful garden. Whether you're planting vegetables, flowers, or a combination of both, make sure to follow these simple tips to get started.