Top 8 Crops to Sow in Early Spring
Early spring is a wonderful time to start sowing cool-weather crops. Whether you’re gardening on an apartment balcony or in a sprawling yard, many of these crops are perfect for gardens in most growing zones.
As you read, be sure to check your specific growing zone to make the most of your planting season.
Early spring is the perfect time to ease into gardening and grow easy, delicious produce. Many of these crops mature quickly, making them ideal for succession sowing to ensure a continuous supply throughout their growing season (every 2 to 3 weeks). Keep in mind, these crops thrive and germinate when temperatures stay above 40°F but before daytime highs reach 70°F. For best results, direct sow these crops as soon as weather permits. If you’re eager to get started earlier, I’ve noted which plants can tolerate an indoor start.
These crops are nutrient-dense and are extremely versatile in the kitchen (check out some of my favorite recipes in future posts).
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Sugar Snap Peas
Sugar Snap Peas are one of my favorite vegetables to grow and eat. Their sweet and crispy taste makes a refreshing snack straight from the garden and can be paired well in various meals.
Easy to sow outdoors in cool soil
3-4 week indoor start before last frost date for your zone
1in planting depth
Space each seed 2in apart in rows 1.5-2ft apart
Days to Maturity: 60-65 days
Seedlings germinate within 7-14 days
Ensure seedlings have a trellis or trellis netting to grab onto after germination
Carrots
Carrots are a staple crop for early spring. They’re relatively easy to grow, but it’s important to space the seeds properly to avoid stunted growth. Once harvested, carrots make a nutritious and versatile addition to snacks, soups, and side dishes.
Sow outdoors only
Sow just below soil surface (1/8 to 1/4in depth)
Important—space about 2in from one another
Days to Maturity: 60-80 days, depending on the variety
Seedlings germinate within 7-21 days
Weed out seedlings that are too close as they grow
Ensure the soil is constantly moist, especially during germination
Spinach
Leafy, green Spinach is a must-have for early spring gardens. It’s fast-growing and easy to harvest, making it perfect for beginners. I love growing spinach for smoothies, salads, and cooked dishes.
Easy to sow outdoors in cool soil
4-6 week indoor start before last frost date for your zone
1/2in planting depth
Space 3-6in apart in rows 1-1.5ft apart
Days to Maturity: 45-50 days
Seedlings germinate within 5-10 days
Regular harvesting encourages the plant to continue producing
Radishes
Radishes are a must-have for early spring gardens. They’re fast-growing, easy to sow, and ready to harvest in just a few weeks. Their crisp texture and peppery flavor make radishes perfect for salads, snacks, or pickling. Plus, they thrive in small spaces, making them ideal for container or vertical gardens.
Easy to sow outdoors in cool soil
Not recommended for starting indoors
1/2in planting depth
Space 2in apart in rows 8-12in apart
Days to Maturity: 22-30 days
Seedlings germinate within 4-10 days
Mild to spicy flavoring depending on the variety
Microgreens
I absolutely love Microgreens! They are one of the easiest crops to grow and have an incredibly quick maturity rate. When I first started gardening, microgreens were my go-to crop, and I never encountered any issues. Just be sure to wash them thoroughly before enjoying their fresh, nutritious flavor.
Easy to sow indoors
Not zone dependent
Requires no soil—unless you prefer—but regular rinsing & draining (2-3x/day) prevents mold growth
Crowding isn’t an issue
Days to Maturity: ready in just 5-7 days
Seedlings germinate best after soaking in water for 8-12hrs
Harvest when 1-2in tall, with open leaves
Green Onion
For a zesty addition to your home-cooked meals, consider carving out some space for Green Onions in your garden. I’ve always loved growing green onions because of how effortless they are to cultivate. Simply trim the green tops above the soil, and they’ll continue growing without the need for resowing.
Easy to sow outdoors in cool soil
4-6 week indoor start before last frost date for your zone
1/4in planting depth
Space 1-2in apart in rows 1ft apart
Days to Maturity: 65-85 days
Seedlings germinate within 7-14 days
Lettuce
Lettuce is a versatile crop and comes in many different varieties. Quick growing and with regular harvests, you will have salad greens, lettuce wraps, and so much more all season long. They make the perfect vegetable for balcony gardens, raised beds, vertical gardening, or containers.
Easy to sow outdoors or indoors in cool weather
1/4in planting depth
Space 8-10in apart
Days to Maturity: 40-85 days
Seedlings germinate within 7-14 days
Harvesting just above the soil line encourages regrowth
Lettuce produces the best in slightly warmer temps, up to 60-70F
Herbs
Herbs like Basil, Sage, & Cilantro thrive in early spring conditions. While some herbs can be tricky to start from seed, I’ve had great success with these three. Basil is a must-have for any garden (a topic for another post!), sage adds flavor to your dishes—especially pasta—and cilantro brings a delightful aroma to your garden. Beyond their culinary uses, these herbs help protect your garden from pests while attracting essential pollinators.
Easy to sow outdoors in cool soil
4-6 week indoor start before last frost date for your zone, although transplanting may not be successful
Specifics depend on the variety, but all generally follow the same guidelines
1/4in planting depth
Space 6-18in apart
Days to Maturity: 50-90 days
Seedlings germinate within 5-10 days
Regular harvesting encourages the plant to continue producing
Starting your gardening journey in early spring lays the foundation for a season full of growth and fresh harvests—and sets the tone for the rest of the year. With these beginner-friendly and expert-approved crops, you can enjoy a thriving garden that provides nutritious, delicious produce—whether you have acreage or a cozy balcony.
Remember, gardening is as much about the process as the results. Embrace the joy of nurturing your plants, learning along the way, and watching your hard work flourish. Here's to a bountiful and rewarding gardening season!
Images from FreePik.
