As spring arrives and we are getting closer to Mother’s Day, gardening lovers are beginning to plan their gardens for the harvest and bloom season. With the Pittsburgh weather starting to warm up, now is the perfect time to start planting new flowers, vegetables, and herbs.
Knowing when and what to plant in early spring is essential before you begin planting! Therefore, in this gardening guide, we will provide some tips and suggestions on what flowers to plant in early spring.
What Do I Need For A Spring Garden?
Although picking out the plants and flowers for your spring garden is the fun part, it is important to understand exactly what materials you are going to need to maintain a thriving garden. Below are some materials you may find you need for your garden in early spring.
Soil Preparation Materials
Make sure your soil is ready to go with some soil preparation materials! If your soil needs some TLC, it can determine the growth and health of your new plants. These materials include compost or organic matter, a garden fork or tiller, and a soil testing kit.
Mulch is a must for your garden and landscape in general to provide nutrients to the soil. There are different kinds and colors to choose from so that your garden matches your aesthetic.
Planting Tools
A basic tool kit for your garden will include a gardening shovel, hand trowel, gardening rake, and gardening gloves. These will help tremendously with planting and maintaining your early spring garden.
Pruning materials are also a great idea for when they start to grow. You want to tame your garden so that nothing intertwines with another plant or just starts taking over another side of your garden.
Watering Tools
To ensure that your plants are happy and healthy, invest in watering tools. This could be something as simple as a water can or hose to an entire sprinkling system.
No need to go all out with a sprinkler system, especially when you are first starting out. A watering can will get you in the habit of doing it and looking for signs in your plant. You may observe that your plants require more water, less water, lack nutrients, etc.
Just be mindful of when during the day you water your plants. Once it starts getting hot during the day, if you start watering your plants during the blistering heat, it may end up cooking your plants.
Pest Control Materials
Insects may become a big problem for your garden. Insecticidal soap, neem oil spray, and row covers (for protection against pests) can help with any pest control issues you may experience.
Garden Markers
If you are planting multiple different kinds of flowers and plants this spring, it can be a good idea to invest in garden markers or labels. It is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it will also help to decipher what plant is which.
Gardening labels are extremely easy to DIY yourself so you can make this into a project to do with your kids, family, or friends!
What To Plant In Early Spring:
01. Peas
Peas are one of the most popular vegetables to plant in early spring. They are a cool-season crop that prefers a temperature range of 45°F to 75°F. Peas can be sowed directly into the ground in early spring, as soon as the soil is workable. They grow quickly and are usually ready for harvest within 60 days. Peas are also packed with nutrients and are a great source of protein.
02. Lettuce
Lettuce is another cool-season crop that can be grown in early spring. They prefer a temperature range of 45°F to 65°F and can be grown in containers or directly in the ground. Lettuce seeds should be planted shallowly and kept moist until they germinate. They can be harvested when they reach a size that is suitable for your taste.
03. Spinach
Spinach is a nutrient-rich green that is perfect for early spring planting. They prefer a temperature range of 35°F to 75°F and can be grown in containers or directly in the ground. Spinach seeds should be planted 1/2 inch deep and spaced about 2 inches apart. Spinach is ready for harvest in about 6-8 weeks after planting.
04. Radishes
Radishes are fast-growing vegetables that can be planted in early spring. They prefer a temperature range of 50°F to 65°F and can be grown in containers or directly in the ground. Radish seeds should be planted 1/2 inch deep and spaced about 1 inch apart. They are usually ready for harvest in about 3-4 weeks.
05. Herbs
Herbs are an excellent addition to any garden and can be grown in containers or directly in the ground. Some popular herbs that can be planted in early spring include basil, chives, cilantro, dill, and parsley. Herbs prefer a temperature range of 50°F to 70°F and should be planted in well-draining soil.
Purchase your herbs seed kits here.
06. Flowers
Spring is a great time to plant flowers that will bloom throughout the summer. Some popular options for early spring planting include daffodils, tulips, crocuses, and hyacinths. These flowers should be planted in the fall or early spring before the ground gets too warm.
Purchase your flower bulb kits here.
Ending Note:
Early spring is a great time to start planning and planting your garden. As the season progresses, we know that there will be more opportunities to plant a plethora of vegetables and flowers.
It’s important to choose plants that can tolerate the cool temperatures of early spring. With these tips and suggestions, you’ll be on your way to a beautiful and productive garden in no time.
If you need any help getting your garden started, don’t be afraid to ask the in-store professionals of Johnson’s Ace Hardware! Happy gardening!
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