Spring is just around the corner, and as the soil begins to warm up, eager gardeners can start planting certain crops even while the weather is still cool. Some vegetables thrive in colder temperatures and can be planted early to give you a head start on the growing season. By choosing cold-tolerant, hardy vegetables, you’ll be able to enjoy fresh, homegrown produce sooner—and all while keeping things organic!
Here’s our list of the top 10 cold-tolerant vegetables to plant in early spring, along with tips on how to grow them organically.
1. Spinach
Why it’s great: Spinach is one of the hardiest leafy greens, tolerating frost and thriving in cool conditions. Plant it early in the season for a steady supply of fresh, nutrient-rich leaves.
Growing tips:
- Direct sow seeds as soon as the soil is workable, about 4-6 weeks before the last frost date.
- Spinach prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Add compost or aged manure to the soil before planting.
- Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist, and mulch around the plants to retain moisture.
2. Kale
Why it’s great: Kale is a superstar of the cold-weather garden. It gets sweeter after exposure to frost and can be harvested well into the cooler months.
Growing tips:
- Start seeds indoors or direct sow about 4 weeks before the last frost.
- Choose a sunny spot with rich, loamy soil. Add organic compost to improve soil fertility.
- Water regularly, and harvest leaves from the bottom up, allowing the plant to keep producing.
3. Peas
Why it’s great: Peas love cool weather and are easy to grow in early spring. Both snap peas and shelling peas are excellent for planting in cool conditions.
Growing tips:
- Direct sow seeds in well-drained soil, as soon as the soil can be worked.
- Peas benefit from being grown in soil enriched with organic matter, so work compost or well-rotted manure into the soil.
- Use a trellis or support system to help the vines climb and to promote airflow, reducing the risk of disease.
4. Radishes
Why it’s great: Radishes are fast-growing and thrive in cooler weather, making them one of the first crops you can enjoy in spring.
Growing tips:
- Sow radish seeds directly into the garden bed as early as 4 weeks before the last frost.
- They grow best in loose, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.
- Thin seedlings to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to poorly formed radishes.
5. Carrots
Why it’s great: Carrots are cold-tolerant and can be sown directly into the garden in early spring. They’re a great choice for gardeners who want a root crop that thrives in cooler temperatures.
Growing tips:
- Sow seeds directly in the garden 3-5 weeks before the last frost.
- Carrots prefer sandy, well-drained soil. Avoid using fresh manure, as it can cause the roots to fork.
- Keep the soil consistently moist to promote even root growth.
6. Beets
Why it’s great: Beets can be planted early in spring, and both their roots and greens are edible. They can withstand light frosts and are a versatile addition to any garden.
Growing tips:
- Sow seeds directly in the ground about 4 weeks before the last frost.
- Beets thrive in loose, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter. Add compost to the planting area to improve soil structure.
- Thin seedlings to allow room for root development, and water regularly to keep the soil moist.
7. Lettuce
Why it’s great: Lettuce thrives in cooler temperatures, and there are many varieties to choose from—whether you prefer crisp romaine, tender butterhead, or colorful loose-leaf types.
Growing tips:
- Direct sow seeds or transplant seedlings in early spring, about 4-6 weeks before the last frost.
- Lettuce prefers rich, well-drained soil. Add compost or organic fertilizer to give your plants a strong start.
- Mulch around the plants to keep the soil cool and moist, and harvest leaves regularly to encourage new growth.
8. Broccoli
Why it’s great: Broccoli is a cold-hardy vegetable that performs best when grown in cool weather, making early spring the perfect time to get it into the ground.
Growing tips:
- Start seeds indoors or transplant seedlings into the garden about 2-4 weeks before the last frost.
- Broccoli thrives in nutrient-rich soil, so incorporate plenty of organic compost or aged manure into the planting area.
- Water consistently and be on the lookout for pests like cabbage worms, which can be managed using organic pest control methods like neem oil.
9. Onions
Why it’s great: Onions are incredibly hardy and can be planted in early spring. Whether you’re growing bulbs, green onions, or shallots, they all tolerate cool temperatures.
Growing tips:
- Plant onion sets or transplants as soon as the soil can be worked.
- Onions need well-drained soil and benefit from organic compost to promote healthy growth.
- Mulch around the plants to suppress weeds and retain moisture, and water regularly for optimal bulb development.
10. Swiss Chard
Why it’s great: Swiss chard is another cold-hardy green that produces beautifully colored stems and nutritious leaves. It tolerates frost and keeps producing throughout the season.
Growing tips:
- Direct sow seeds about 2-4 weeks before the last frost.
- Swiss chard prefers nutrient-rich, well-drained soil, so work in organic compost before planting.
- Harvest the outer leaves while leaving the central stem intact for continuous production.
Tips for Growing Organic Cold-Tolerant Vegetables
To ensure your vegetables grow strong and healthy, follow these organic gardening tips:
- Soil Health: Always start with healthy, fertile soil. Adding organic matter like compost, aged manure, or organic soil amendments will improve soil structure and nutrient content.
We recommend: Quoddy Blend Compost with Lobster & Crab, Castine Blend Raised Bed Mix, Cobscook Blend In-Ground Garden Soil.
- Natural Pest Control: Encourage beneficial insects, use row covers, and apply organic pest control methods to keep pests in check.
- Water Wisely: Water early in the day and aim for consistent moisture. Mulch can help retain moisture and prevent soil erosion.
We recommend: Dark Harbor Blend Enriching Mulch, Fundy Blend Enriching Mulch & Seaweed.
- Crop Rotation: Rotate crops each year to prevent soil depletion and reduce the risk of pests and diseases.
By choosing cold-tolerant vegetables and following organic practices, you can kickstart your spring garden and enjoy fresh, homegrown produce earlier in the season. Happy planting!
