April is a great time to plant a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, and herbs. The days are getting cooler and the humidity is dropping, while the soil still holds onto the warmth from Summer. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned green thumb, here’s a guide to what you can plant this month, along with tips on how to care for them.
Vegetables to Plant
Lettuce
A fast-growing leafy green, lettuce loves the slightly cooler temperatures of autumn. Choose loose-leaf varieties for a quicker harvest, or cos and butterhead types for heartier heads. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and plant in a partly shaded spot to prevent bolting.
Carrots
Carrots grow well in the mild autumn climate. Choose a well-draining, loose soil to prevent them from becoming stunted or forked. Thin seedlings to avoid overcrowding, and ensure the soil is free from large clumps or stones.
Beetroot
Beetroot is easy to grow and provides both tasty roots and nutritious greens. Water consistently and harvest when the roots are about the size of a golf ball for the best flavour.
Broccoli
This nutrient-rich vegetable thrives in the cooling temperatures. Protect from cabbage moths with netting and apply liquid fertiliser every two weeks for strong growth.
Spinach
A great leafy green to plant now for continual harvests. Prefers slightly shaded areas and regular watering to prevent drying out.
Snow Peas
Snow peas love the cooler temperatures of autumn. Plant them in full sun with something to climb—like a trellis or a mesh fence. Sow directly into the soil and water regularly, especially during flowering and pod development. Pick pods young and often, to encourage continuous production.
Fruits to Plant in March
Strawberries
March is an excellent time to plant strawberries, as they’ll establish well before winter and produce fruit in spring. Plant in well-draining, compost-rich soil and keep them mulched to retain moisture and prevent rot.
Passionfruit
This vigorous vine is perfect for warm climates and will thrive with the right care. Plant in full sun with a sturdy trellis for support, and keep the soil moist but well-drained.
Herbs to Plant
Chives
Easy and low-maintenance, chives do well in pots or garden beds. They love sunny spots and only need moderate watering. Trim regularly to keep them lush and productive.
Parsley
A hardy herb that thrives in autumn. Water consistently and grow in a partly shaded area if the weather is still warm.
Coriander
Best grown in autumn to avoid bolting in the heat. Prefers a cooler, shaded position and consistent watering. It can grow quickly, so harvest often to encourage more leafy growth.
Garden Care Tips for April
- Start potting hanging baskets with winter bloomers – violas, wallflowers and polyanthus.
- Prune native shrubs that flowered during summer to get them tidied up before winter.
- Mulch your garden beds. It helps to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.Â
- Keep an eye out for pests. Snails and aphids can still be active during April.Â
- Feed your soil – use compost or worm castings to enrich the soil before planting.Â
- Water wisely, as cooler weather means less evaporation, but new seedlings still need consistent moisture.
Handy Products for Your Garden
Based on the above information, here’s a round-up of just a few products to get your garden thriving. We recommend using the specifically designed UltraGrow range of soils, bio stimulants and fertilisers. The liquid ranges are perfect for foliar spraying.
Don’t forget to tag us (@centenarylandsc) in your photos /videos of your growing journey – we’d love to see how your project goes!