When to Plant Your Vegetables in Maryland
Taking advantage of Maryland’s growing season can help you enjoy fresh, homegrown vegetables all summer and autumn long. If you’re located in Potomac or Bethesda, the following timeline can give you an idea of when you should plant your vegetables.
Cool Season Vegetables:
These vegetables, like broccoli and lettuce, should be planted in the spring.
- March: Start planting your onion sets and potatoes.
- April: Plant cool season crops such as lettuce, spinach, peas, and carrots.
Warm Season Vegetables:
These vegetables, like tomatoes, peppers, and squash, need hot temperatures and sunshine to grow properly.
- May: Plant warm season crops such as tomatoes, peppers, melons, and beans.
- June/July: Plant summer squash, sweet corn, and cucumbers.
It’s best to wait until late spring or early summer for hot season vegetables, as this is when the soil temperature is warm enough to get your plants started. Planting too early can result in seedlings that don’t thrive.
Remember to check the soil temperature before planting, as well as the maturity dates for each crop you plan to grow. This ensures that you will get the most from your Maryland vegetable garden.
Harvesting:
Most cool season vegetables are ready to be harvested after 60-90 days and warm season vegetables can be ready in 70-100 days. But, be sure to check the instructions of each vegetable so you know when to harvest and enjoy.
Follow these steps and taking advantage of Maryland’s growing season can help you enjoy fresh, homegrown vegetables all summer and fall long!
