I Tilled And Planted Onion Sets In The Garden Today….
Gary Asked
I tilled and planted onion sets in the garden today. What else can I plant?
The Gardener’s Answer
Hi, Gary in Kentucky: This is the time of year we gardeners start getting fidgety about digging in the soil. February is still a bit too early to plant the spring vegetable garden. Ideally temperatures should consistently be between 50-65 degrees F. before we plant directly into the garden. We can, however, start planting seeds indoors so our seedlings will be ready to transplant in a couple weeks. Cool-season crops will tolerate light frost and can be planted as soon as the soil can be worked in the spring. As for options for the spring garden there are many other cool-season crops to consider. Lettuces and greens are probably the most common, but carrots, potatoes, brussels sprouts, peas, and broccoli also like the cooler, shorter days. The broccoli and brussels sprouts should be purchased as transplants and planted directly in the garden but the others can be grown from seed. Always purchase your seed from a reliable source and make sure to follow packet instructions since each vegetable/green has different germination requirements. It is best to place your seeds in a south-facing window. Be sure to use quality potting mix and seed trays or containers that allow for drainage. The soil should be consistently moist but not sopping wet or the seeds will rot. The Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service has a publication available for gardeners on home vegetable gardening. If you would like to read more detailed information on specific veggies you can visit www.ca.uky.edu/agc/pubs/id/id128/id128.pdf. Since this is a newly tilled bed you might consider adding some compost if you have not already done so.
