When to Sow Seeds
First you need to determine when the risk of frost for your area is over. In the Pittsburgh area, our average last frost date in the spring is May 14. After that date, there is always a slight chance of frost, so it’s important to check the forecast for lows and protect tender plants if needed.
Now that we know when our last frost date is, we can determine which seeds to sow when.
sow these seeds indoors, right now
Here is a list of which seeds you can start inside by the end of this week, or April 11, and then transplant outside the first week of May:
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Chard
- Kale
- Collards
- Kohlrabi
- Leeks
- Pak Choi
sow these seeds mid-april to mid-may
Plant these seeds later this month, and then transplant outdoors around Memorial day through first week of June:
- Corn
- Cucumber
- Eggplant
- Melons
- Peppers
- Squash
- Tomatoes
sow these seeds in succession plantings
Sow a small amount of these seeds directly into the ground, about every two weeks, after Memorial Day:
- Beans
- Beets
- Salad greens
- Arugula
- Carrots
- Cilantro
- Corn
- Spinach
- Cucumber
- Zucchini
Vegetable plants
If you don’t have the time, special lighting, or other supplies needed to start seeds, we have you covered! Cool season transplants are available in the garden center now, and warmer season crops will be available by the end of the month. Be sure to start the garden off great by using premium quality soil and compost. One of our very favorites is Bumper Crop Soil Builder.
Wishing you a great growing season and healthy harvest!
