GARDENMary Andrews

Seasonal Kitchen Garden Planting

GARDENMary Andrews
Seasonal Kitchen Garden Planting

The Ultimate Seasonal Planting Guide: What Fruits & Vegetables to Grow Year-Round

Whether you’re working with raised beds, patio containers, or a full backyard plot, growing your own fruits and vegetables is a satisfying and healthy way to eat seasonally. But timing is everything. Planting the right crops at the right time ensures a bountiful harvest and happy, thriving plants.

Use this simple seasonal planting guide to help you decide what to grow, and when to get it in the ground.

🌱 SPRING: The Season of Fresh Starts

(March - May)

As the soil warms and days grow longer, spring is the perfect time to plant cool-season crops. These plants thrive in the gentle sun and don't mind the occasional cold snap.

Vegetables to Plant:

  • Lettuce

  • Spinach

  • Kale

  • Radishes

  • Carrots

  • Peas

  • Broccoli

  • Cauliflower

  • Onions (from sets or starts)

  • Potatoes

Fruits to Start:

  • Strawberries (plant bare roots early)

  • Rhubarb

  • Blueberries (plant young bushes)

Tip: Keep row covers handy for surprise frosts, and don’t forget to mulch early to keep weeds in check!

☀️ SUMMER: Sun-Lovers Take the Stage

(June - August)

Once the weather is reliably warm, it's time to bring on the heat-lovers. Summer is the main growing season for most fruiting vegetables and warm-weather crops.

Vegetables to Plant:

  • Tomatoes

  • Cucumbers

  • Zucchini & Squash

  • Peppers (bell & hot)

  • Corn

  • Green Beans

  • Eggplant

  • Okra

Fruits to Grow:

  • Melons (watermelon, cantaloupe)

  • Blackberries

  • Figs

  • Grapes

Tip: Water deeply and consistently. Most summer crops love the sun but hate drought stress!

🍂 FALL: Cool-Weather Comeback

(September - November)

As the heat of summer fades, many spring crops can be planted again for a second harvest. Fall is also a great time to start crops that improve in flavor with a touch of frost.

Vegetables to Plant:

  • Arugula

  • Swiss Chard

  • Turnips

  • Beets

  • Cabbage

  • Brussels Sprouts

  • Garlic (plant in late fall for harvest next summer)

  • Mustard Greens

Fruits to Plant:

  • Apple & Pear Trees (fall planting helps roots establish before winter)

  • Pomegranate

  • Citrus trees (in warm climates)

Tip: Consider using a cold frame or cloche to extend the season for your tender greens.

❄️ WINTER: Planning & Indoor Growing

(December - February)

Even when the garden is asleep, you can still enjoy homegrown produce by growing indoors or preparing for spring.

Vegetables to Start Indoors:

  • Tomatoes (for early spring transplanting)

  • Peppers

  • Herbs (like basil, parsley, and chives)

  • Microgreens & Sprouts (fast, easy, and nutritious)

What to Do Outdoors:

  • Amend soil with compost

  • Clean tools and seed trays

  • Order seeds and make your planting calendar

Tip: Winter is ideal for dreaming, designing, and setting yourself up for a productive garden year!

🌿 Wrapping It All Up

Gardening is a rhythm, not a race. Knowing what to plant and when helps you sync with the seasons and enjoy a variety of fresh produce all year. Whether you’re new to gardening or refining your routine, let each season guide your growing journey.

Happy planting! 🌻