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! 🌻