These top vegetable seeds to sow in early spring will get your kitchen garden off to an early start and you’ll be harvesting tasty crops in no time. There are many seeds to be sown at this time of year and depending on where you live, you’ll need to think about protection from cool weather and late frosts - even snow! Having said all of that, there are still plenty to start sowing at this time of year and it’s a great way to put your green fingers to work after a long winter. The days are getting longer so it’s time to spend as much time outside as you can.
What vegetable seeds to sow in early spring?
Spring in Ontario can still be chilly, so it's important to choose crops that can withstand cooler temperatures. Here are some vegetables that you can sow early in the spring in Ontario:
- Peas: Peas are a cool-season crop and can be sown directly into the garden as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring.
- Radishes: Radishes are fast-growing and can be sown as early as four weeks before the last frost date. They prefer cool temperatures and can be harvested in as little as three weeks.
- Lettuce: Lettuce is another cool-season crop that can be sown early in the spring. Sow seeds directly in the garden, and choose varieties that are adapted to cooler temperatures.
- Spinach: Spinach is a cold-hardy crop that can be sown as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring. It prefers cool temperatures and will bolt when the weather gets too warm.
- Carrots: Carrots can be sown as early as three weeks before the last frost date, but they can take a while to germinate in cooler soil. Consider covering the seedbed with a row cover to keep the soil warm and promote germination.
Remember to check the planting instructions for each seed packet, as planting times can vary by variety. Also, keep an eye on the weather and be prepared to protect your crops if frost is expected.
