You’ve got until April 27 to sow these easy vegetables
With spring in full swing, gardeners across regions with moderate climates face a critical deadline: April 27 marks the final window to plant frost-sensitive crops before the last frost date. This period is ideal for sowing vegetables that thrive in cooler temperatures or require a head start before warmer weather arrives. Below, we break down the easiest vegetables to plant before this deadline, along with expert tips for maximizing yields.
Peas are among the first vegetables to plant in spring, tolerating light frosts and thriving in temperatures as low as 40°F (4°C). Snap peas and snow peas are top choices, requiring minimal support beyond a simple trellis or chicken wire fence. Plant seeds 2 inches apart in early April, and expect harvests within 50–60 days. For optimal results, soak seeds in water for 24–48 hours before sowing to accelerate germination.
Onions: A low-maintenance staple
Onions are another cool-weather crop that excels when planted as sets (small bulbs) in early spring. Space them 3–4 inches apart in well-draining soil, and choose varieties like yellow or white onions for consistent flavor. For faster growth, start seedlings indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost date and harden them off before transplanting.
Lettuce: Succession sowing for year-round harvests
Lettuce thrives in spring’s cooler temperatures and can be direct-sown as soon as the soil is workable. Black-seeded Simpson and mixed varieties are popular for their rapid growth. To extend the harvest season, plant a second batch two weeks after the first, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh greens. For container gardens, use large pots and stagger sowings every 10–14 days.
While tomatoes prefer warmer soil, they benefit from an early start indoors. Early Girl, Beef Steak, and Celebrity varieties are ideal for transplanting after the last frost. Sow seeds 6–8 weeks before April 27 in seed trays, providing supplemental lighting to prevent leggy growth. Harden seedlings gradually before moving them outdoors, and plant deeply to encourage root development.
Green beans: Wait for soil to warm
Green beans are best planted after the soil reaches 60°F (15°C), typically mid-May in cooler climates. Bush varieties like Blue Lake or Kentucky Wonder require no staking and mature in 50–60 days. For a bountiful harvest, sow seeds 2–3 inches apart in rows spaced 18–24 inches apart.
Key planting tips for success
Soil preparation: The foundation of growth
Test soil pH and amend with compost or manure if necessary. Cool-weather crops like peas and onions prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0), while tomatoes thrive in richer, well-draining soil. For root vegetables like carrots and parsnips, ensure loose, rock-free soil to prevent deformities.
Succession sowing: Maximizing space and time
Lettuce, spinach, and radishes can be successionally sown every 1–2 weeks to extend harvests. For example, plant spinach in early April, then again in late May and early June for summer salads. This method also applies to green beans, which can be replanted every 2–3 weeks for continuous yields.
Support structures: Preventing damage and improving access
Peas and tomatoes require sturdy supports. For peas, use a chicken wire fence or trellis, planting seeds on both sides for maximum space efficiency. Tomatoes benefit from cage supports or stakes, especially for indeterminate varieties that grow tall.
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Most warm-weather crops like tomatoes and green beans are sensitive to frost, which can kill seedlings or damage foliage. Planting before April 27 ensures seedlings have time to establish themselves before the last frost date, reducing vulnerability to cold snaps.
Leveraging optimal growing conditions
Cool-weather crops grow fastest in spring’s moderate temperatures and ample moisture. Delaying planting beyond April 27 risks exposing them to summer heat, which can lead to bolting (premature flowering) in lettuce and spinach.
In areas with later last frost dates (e.g., May 15), prioritize fast-maturing varieties of peas, lettuce, and spinach. Use row covers or cold frames to protect seedlings from unexpected frosts.
In regions with earlier springs, focus on transplanting tomatoes and peppers after April 27. For direct-sown crops like green beans, wait until soil temperatures stabilize above 60°F (15°C).
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Cool-weather crops like onions and lettuce are prone to rot in soggy soil. Water lightly but consistently, ensuring the top 2–3 inches of soil dry between waterings.
Neglecting hardening off
Seedlings started indoors must acclimate to outdoor conditions gradually. Harden off over 7–10 days, increasing exposure to sunlight and wind each day.
With the April 27 deadline approaching, now is the time to prioritize peas, onions, lettuce, and tomatoes—crops that reward early planting with robust yields. By following soil preparation guidelines, succession sowing strategies, and frost protection measures, gardeners can maximize their harvests while minimizing risks. Whether you’re a seasoned grower or a beginner, these easy vegetables offer a reliable foundation for a productive spring garden.
Allan is a lifelong gardening enthusiast who still gets excited when the first seedlings pop up in spring. With a deep love for nature and a hands-in-the-soil approach, he shares practical tips, plant discoveries, and clever tricks picked up over years of digging, planting, and observing. Whether you’re a new gardener or have a shed full of tools, Allan writes like a neighbor who’s always happy to swap cuttings and stories over the fence.
You can find more about Allan’s work on Malt or connect with him on LinkedIn.
