Planting calendar
April Planting Guide for Chicago Gardens: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
April in Chicago is ideal for planting cool-season crops and starting warm-season vegetables indoors. You can directly sow hardy greens and root vegetables in raised beds, containers, or in-ground while preparing for summer crops. Be cautious of late frosts and gradually transition seedlings outdoors.
Plant now (quick list)
Lettuce, Spinach, Radishes, Peas, Kale, Carrots, Beets, Chard
Plant now
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Radishes
- Peas
- Kale
- Carrots
- Beets
- Chard
Start indoors
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Basil
- Cucumbers
- Melons
- Squash
Avoid
- Corn
- Beans
- Tomatoes (outdoors)
- Peppers (outdoors)
- Eggplants (outdoors)
- Cucumbers (outdoors)
Next 2 weeks
- Harden off indoor seedlings by gradually exposing them outdoors
- Continue sowing cool-season crops in raised beds and containers
- Monitor soil moisture and avoid waterlogging
- Prepare soil with compost for warm-season planting
- Apply mulch to protect emerging seedlings from late frost
FAQs
When is it safe to transplant tomatoes outdoors in Chicago?
Transplant tomatoes outdoors after the last expected frost date, usually mid to late May, when nighttime temperatures stay consistently above 50°F.
Can I plant warm-season crops directly in April?
It's best to start warm-season crops indoors in April and transplant them outdoors after the frost risk has passed to avoid cold damage.
How do I protect seedlings from late frosts?
Use row covers, cloches, or cold frames to shield young plants during unexpected cold snaps.
What soil preparation is recommended in April?
Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage before planting.
Can I grow herbs in containers during April?
Yes, herbs like parsley, chives, and cilantro can be planted outdoors or started indoors and placed in containers.
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