When to Plant (6217)

A frequent mistake amateur gardeners make is trying to plant vegetables too early.

Working garden soil too early while it is still wet compacts it and forms clods. The age--old test of firming a small amount of soil in the hand is a good way to tell when soil is dry enough for you to work. If the firmed soil does not crumble easily when you gently press it, it is too wet to work.

Do not rush to start seeds outdoors or to set out started plants. Most seeds will not germinate well until the soil warms to about 60 degrees. If you sow them in soil that is cooler than this, they will not germinate until the soil warms up. If the soil is too wet, the seed may rot before the soil warms up enough for the seed to germinate.

If you do set out transplants, such as tomatoes and peppers, before the recommended date, be sure to cover these young tender plants with plant protectors. Several types of plant protectors are available at your local garden center.

- On April 15, seed the following vegetables outdoors: Beets, carrots, chard, kohlrabi, leaf lettuce, onion sets, parsnip, peas, potatoes, radishes, spinach, and turnips.

- On May 1 set out these plants: Broccoli, early cabbage, cauliflower, and parsley.

- On, or about May 15 plant these vegetables: Snap beans, pole beans, Brussels sprouts, late cabbage, and regular sweet corn.

Mid to late May is the recommended date for planting cucumbers, muskmelon, and squash, and also for setting out tomato plants in southern Pennsylvania (June 1 in Central PA). Wait until June 1 to set out pepper plants. Also delay planting pumpkins until June 1 for a fall harvest.

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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