Spring Vegetable Gardening in Southern California: What to Plant Now

Spring in Southern California is a gardener's delight! With the weather warming up and the threat of frost generally behind us, it's the perfect time to get a variety of delicious vegetables into the ground. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or just starting, here's a guide to what you can plant in your Southern California vegetable garden right now in mid-April:

Warm Season Wonders:

As the soil warms, it's time to introduce heat-loving plants to your garden:

• Tomatoes: From juicy heirlooms to reliable hybrids, now is a prime time to transplant tomato seedlings. Provide them with plenty of sunshine and support as they grow.
• Peppers: Bell peppers, jalapeños, Anaheim, and other varieties thrive in the Southern California warmth. Plant seedlings in a sunny spot with well-draining soil.  
• Eggplant: These beautiful and versatile vegetables love the heat. Plant seedlings now for a summer harvest. Consider different varieties like Japanese or Italian eggplant.  
• Cucumbers: Whether you prefer slicing, pickling, or lemon cucumbers, get your seeds or seedlings in the ground now. They'll appreciate trellising to save space and improve air circulation.  
• Summer Squash: Zucchini and yellow squash are fast growers and prolific producers in warm weather. Sow seeds directly in the ground.  
• Beans: Both bush and pole beans can be directly sown now. Ensure they have adequate support if you choose pole varieties.
• Corn: If you have the space, now is a good time to sow corn seeds directly. Plant in blocks for better pollination.
• Melons: Watermelons, cantaloupe, and other melons need warm soil to germinate and grow. Sow seeds directly in a sunny spot with plenty of room to vine.  

Still Time for Some Cool-Season Crops:

While the focus shifts to warm-season vegetables, you might still have time for a late planting of some quick-maturing, cool-season favorites, especially in slightly cooler microclimates:

• Radishes: These fast-growing root vegetables can still be sown for a quick spring harvest.  
• Leafy Greens: Consider planting heat-tolerant varieties of lettuce, spinach, and Swiss chard in a spot that receives some afternoon shade to prevent bolting.
• Green Onions: You can continue to plant green onion sets or seeds for a continuous supply.
• Beets: Sow beet seeds for both their tasty roots and nutritious greens.

Tips for Success in Your Southern California Spring Vegetable Garden:

• Soil Preparation: Ensure your soil is well-draining and amended with compost for healthy growth.
• Watering: As temperatures rise, consistent watering will be crucial, especially for newly planted seedlings. Consider drip irrigation for efficiency.
• Sunlight: Most of these vegetables require at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.  
• Succession Planting: For a continuous harvest, consider planting inSuccession, sowing new seeds or planting seedlings every few weeks.
• Pest and Disease Control: Keep an eye out for common garden pests and address them early with organic methods if possible.

Mid-April in Southern California offers a fantastic opportunity to establish a productive and rewarding vegetable garden. By planting these warm-season favorites now, you'll be on your way to enjoying fresh, homegrown produce throughout the summer! Happy gardening!