When to Plant Vegetables in Wisconsin
Wisconsin is a wonderful place to garden, with its moderate climate and range of soil types. Knowing when to plant vegetables is key to harvest a successful garden. Luckily, Wisconsin’s growing season is long enough to allow for multiple planting cycles, giving a wider range of vegetables to choose from.
Early Spring Crops
Early spring is a great time to plant cold tolerant vegetables, such as:
- Asparagus
- Radishes
- Spinach
- Kale
Be sure to start these vegetables indoors up to three weeks before you plan to transplant them outside. This will allow your seeds to get a head start, particularly since the soil and air temperatures are still cool in early spring.
Mid-Spring Crops
By mid-spring, more vegetables can go into your garden. These include:
- Corn
- Beets
- Carrots
- Cucumbers
- Snap Peas
- Squash
- Tomatoes
- Green Beans
These vegetables should be direct seeded or started from a seedling wrapped in a peat pot. Some of these vegetables may need protection from the elements, such as a cold frame or row cover, to ensure a successful bounty.
Late Spring Through Summer
Once mid to late spring rolls around, you can start thinking of some summer favorites. These include:
- Cabbage
- Onions
- Lettuce
- Potatoes
- Eggplant
- Okra
- Peppers
Vegetables such as peppers and eggplant prefer hot temperatures, so wait to plant these until the soil temperatures are warmer. With the right timing and enough tender love and care, you’ll bring home a delicious bounty from your Wisconsin garden.
