Spring Vegetable Gardening in Ontario: What to Plant and When

Spring is the perfect time to start planting vegetables in your Ontario garden. The soil is beginning to warm up, and the days are getting longer, giving plants the ideal conditions they need to grow. But what should you plant, and when should you plant it? In this article, we’ll provide a guide to planting vegetables in an Ontario garden in the spring, including information on timing, soil preparation, and recommended crops.

1. Soil Preparation

Before you start planting, it’s important to prepare your soil. Remove any debris, such as fallen leaves or twigs, from the surface of the soil. Loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches and add compost or other organic matter to improve its texture and nutrient content. Test the pH level of your soil to ensure that it’s within the optimal range for the vegetables you want to grow.

2. Planting Schedule

The best time to start planting vegetables in Ontario is typically mid-April to mid-May, depending on your specific location and the weather conditions. Some vegetables, such as peas and radishes, can be planted as early as late March or early April, while others, such as tomatoes and peppers, are best planted in late May or early June.

3. Recommended Vegetables

There are many vegetables that thrive in an Ontario garden during the spring months. Here are some of our top recommendations:

• Peas: Peas are a cool-season crop that can be planted in the early spring. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun. Sow them directly in the garden in rows, about 2 inches deep and 1 inch apart.
• Radishes: Radishes are a fast-growing crop that can be planted in the early spring. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun. Sow them directly in the garden in rows, about 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart.
• Lettuce: Lettuce is a cool-season crop that can be planted in the early spring. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade. Sow seeds directly in the garden in rows, about 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart.
• Spinach: Spinach is a cool-season crop that can be planted in the early spring. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade. Sow seeds directly in the garden in rows, about 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart.
• Carrots: Carrots are a root crop that can be planted in the early spring. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun. Sow them directly in the garden in rows, about 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart.
• Beets: Beets are a root crop that can be planted in the early spring. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun. Sow them directly in the garden in rows, about 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart.
• Onions: Onions are a bulb crop that can be planted in the early spring. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun. Sow them directly in the garden in rows, about 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart.

4. Care and Maintenance

Once you’ve planted your vegetables, it’s important to care for them properly. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, and fertilize as needed. Be sure to weed your garden regularly to prevent competition for nutrients and water. Monitor your plants for pests and diseases, and take action promptly if you notice any problems. Finally, harvest your vegetables as they ripen, to ensure that you get the best flavor and nutritional value.