Seeds to Start in April

What Vegetable Seeds to Start in April for Zone 6B

Spring is in full swing, and if you’re gardening in Zone 6B, April is a fantastic time to start planting your vegetable seeds! The soil is warming up, the risk of frost is fading, and the excitement of fresh homegrown produce is just around the corner. But knowing which seeds to start indoors and which can go straight into the ground can make a big difference in your garden’s success. Let’s dive into what vegetables you should be planting in April!

Vegetables to Start Indoors in April

Some vegetables need a little extra time to get going before they can be transplanted outside. Starting these seeds indoors in April gives them a head start so they can thrive when moved to the garden in May or June.

1. Tomatoes

Why start indoors? Tomatoes need warm temperatures to germinate and grow. Starting them inside allows them to establish before the weather is warm enough for transplanting. These can be started as early as February too!
When to transplant? Around mid-to-late May when nighttime temps stay above 50°F.
Tips: Use a seedling heat mat for better germination and provide plenty of light to prevent leggy growth.

2. Peppers (Bell, Hot, and Sweet)

Why start indoors? Peppers are slow growers and need warm soil to thrive.
When to transplant? Late May to early June.
Tips: Keep them in a warm, sunny spot and avoid overwatering.

3. Eggplant

Why start indoors? These heat-loving plants need a long growing season.
When to transplant? Late May to early June.
Tips: Eggplants love warmth, so keep them in a sunny window or under grow lights.

4. Basil

Why start indoors? Basil grows quickly but doesn’t tolerate frost.
When to transplant? Mid-to-late May.
Tips: Pinch the tops to encourage bushier growth before transplanting.

5. Cabbage & Brussels Sprouts

Why start indoors? These cool-season crops benefit from an early start.
When to transplant? Late April to early May.
Tips: Harden off seedlings before moving them outside to avoid transplant shock.

Vegetables to Direct Sow in April

As the soil warms up, certain seeds can be planted directly in the ground. These crops do well with direct sowing because they don’t like being transplanted or they germinate quickly in cool conditions.

6. Carrots

Why direct sow? Carrots develop best when grown straight in the soil.
When to plant? Early to mid-April.
Tips: Sow seeds in loose, well-draining soil and keep them moist for even germination.

7. Lettuce & Other Leafy Greens (Spinach, Swiss Chard, Arugula, Kale)

Why direct sow? These leafy greens thrive in cool temperatures and grow fast.
When to plant? Early April.
Tips: Succession plant every 2-3 weeks for a continuous harvest.

8. Beets

Why direct sow? Beets grow best when left undisturbed.
When to plant? Mid-April.
Tips: Soak seeds overnight before planting for better germination.

9. Radishes

Why direct sow? Radishes grow extremely fast and don’t transplant well.
When to plant? Early April.
Tips: Space out plantings every two weeks for a steady supply.

10. Peas (Sugar Snap, Snow, and Shelling Peas)

Why direct sow? Peas prefer cool weather and don’t like being transplanted.
When to plant? Early April.
Tips: Provide a trellis or support for climbing varieties.

11. Turnips

Why direct sow? Turnips grow best when sown directly into the soil.
When to plant? Early to mid-April.
Tips: Thin seedlings to allow for proper root development.

12. Onions (From Sets or Seeds)

Why direct sow? Onions need a long growing season and do best when started early.
When to plant? Early April.
Tips: Space out sets properly to ensure good bulb formation.

13. Potatoes

Why direct plant? Potatoes grow from seed potatoes rather than traditional seeds.
When to plant? Mid-April.
Tips: Plant in loose soil and cover with mulch to retain moisture.

14. Broccoli & Cauliflower

Why direct sow? These crops tolerate cool weather and can be direct-seeded.
When to plant? Late April.
Tips: Keep soil consistently moist to encourage strong growth.

15. Cilantro & Dill

Why direct sow? Both herbs prefer cooler temps and don’t transplant well.
When to plant? Early to mid-April.
Tips: Sow in well-draining soil and harvest regularly to prevent bolting.

My Final Thoughts

April is an exciting time for gardeners in Zone 6B! With warmer temperatures on the way, you can get a head start on your summer vegetables while still enjoying cool-weather crops. The key is knowing which seeds to start indoors and which ones can go straight into the ground.

If you’re looking for quick, easy crops, leafy greens and radishes will have you harvesting in just a few weeks. If you’re planning for a summer harvest, tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants should be started indoors for strong, healthy plants.

No matter what you decide to grow, now is the perfect time to get your hands in the dirt and start planting!