When to get started with spring planting

Spring is an exciting time for gardeners in the UK. The arrival of longer and warmer days signifies the beginning of the growing season and gives people a chance to get a head start on their main summer crops. Typically, most people plant things outside when the weather is consistently warmer, but how early is too early?

Understanding the UK Spring Planting Season

The UK’s spring planting season generally begins in March and extends through May, depending on the weather and your region. The timing is influenced by the last frost date, which can vary from early March in southern England to late May in northern Scotland. By understanding the growing needs of your crops and using tools like greenhouses or cloches, you can extend the growing season and start planting earlier.

Popular Spring Crops and When to Plant Them

1. Broad Beans

Planting Time: February to April

Starting Early: Broad beans are hardy and can be sown directly into the soil as early as February in milder regions. For an earlier crop, start seeds indoors in January.

Tips: Choose varieties like ‘Aquadulce Claudia’ for early planting. Use fleece or cloches to protect young plants from late frosts.

2. Peas

Planting Time: March to May

Starting Early: Sow seeds indoors in February or use a greenhouse to get a head start. Transplant seedlings outdoors in March or April.

Tips: Use netting or pea sticks to support the plants as they grow. Succession sow every 2-3 weeks for continuous harvests.

3. Carrots

Planting Time: March to June

Starting Early: For early crops, choose fast-maturing varieties like ‘Amsterdam Forcing’ and sow under cloches in March.

Tips: Sow directly into well-drained soil and thin seedlings to ensure proper spacing. Avoid transplanting carrots as it can disturb root development.

4. Potatoes

Planting Time: March to May

Starting Early: Chit seed potatoes (allow them to sprout) indoors in late January or February. Plant in the ground from mid-March onwards.

Tips: Use frost protection like fleece for early plantings. Start with first earlies for an earlier harvest.

5. Lettuce

Planting Time: March to September

Starting Early: Start seeds indoors or under cloches in February. Transplant or direct sow outdoors in March.

Tips: Opt for cut-and-come-again varieties to enjoy multiple harvests. Keep soil consistently moist to prevent bolting.

6. Onions and Shallots

Planting Time: February to April

Starting Early: Plant onion sets and shallots directly into the soil as soon as it’s workable in February or March.

Tips: Ensure the planting site is sunny and well-drained. Firm the soil around the sets to deter birds from pulling them up.

7. Spinach

Planting Time: March to May

Starting Early: Sow seeds under cloches in March for an early crop.

Tips: Grow in partial shade to extend the harvest season and prevent bolting in warm weather.

8. Beetroot

Planting Time: March to July

Starting Early: Sow under cloches or indoors in modules from late February.

Tips: Choose bolt-resistant varieties for early sowings and thin seedlings to ensure proper root development.

9. Herbs

Planting Time: March to May

Starting Early: Start herbs like basil, parsley, and coriander indoors in March.

Tips: Use a sunny windowsill or greenhouse for early herb growth. Hardy herbs like chives and thyme can be sown directly outdoors in April.

10. Parsnips

Planting Time: February to April

Starting Early: Sow seeds directly into the soil in February or March, as they require a long growing season.

Tips: Germination can be slow; use fresh seeds each year and cover rows with fleece to maintain warmth.

Tips for Starting Crops Early

Starting crops early can give you a head start on the growing season, allowing for earlier harvests and extended growing periods. Here are some methods to consider:

1. Use a Greenhouse or Polytunnel

Greenhouses provide a controlled environment for starting seeds early. You can sow seeds weeks earlier than you would outdoors and protect young plants from late frosts.

2. Cold Frames and Cloches

Cold frames and cloches are ideal for protecting seedlings and warming the soil. They’re particularly useful for crops like lettuce, carrots, and spinach.

3. Seedling Heat Mats

For heat-loving crops like tomatoes and peppers, seedling heat mats can speed up germination and provide the warmth needed for early growth.

4. Hardening Off Seedlings

Before transplanting seedlings started indoors, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days. This reduces transplant shock and improves their chances of thriving.

5. Choose Early Varieties

Opt for fast-maturing or cold-tolerant varieties of your favorite crops. For example, choose ‘First Early’ potatoes or bolt-resistant spinach for spring planting.

Crop Rotation and Soil Preparation

Preparing your soil in late winter or early spring ensures a strong start for your crops:

Add Compost or Manure: Enrich the soil with organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.

Test Soil Temperature: Use a soil thermometer to ensure the soil has warmed sufficiently for sowing.

Plan Crop Rotation: Rotate crops annually to reduce the risk of soil-borne diseases and nutrient depletion.

Extending the Growing Season

Spring planting doesn’t have to end in early summer. By succession sowing and using season-extending techniques, you can enjoy fresh produce for longer:

Succession Sowing: Plant crops like lettuce and radishes every 2-3 weeks for a continuous harvest.

Mulching: Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

Interplanting: Pair quick-growing crops with slower ones to maximize space and time.

Spring is a pivotal time for gardeners in the UK, offering the opportunity to lay the groundwork for a fruitful growing season. By starting crops at the right time and using tools like greenhouses, cloches, and heat mats, you can extend the growing season and enjoy earlier harvests. With careful planning and preparation, your spring planting efforts will yield a thriving and productive garden.