Planting calendar
April Planting Guide for Dallas, TX: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground Gardens
April in Dallas is ideal for planting warm-season vegetables and herbs in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. Focus on heat-tolerant crops and transplant seedlings started indoors earlier this spring. Avoid planting frost-sensitive crops too early as late cold snaps can still occur.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Cucumbers, Squash, Okra, Sweet potatoes, Basil
Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Cucumbers
- Squash
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes
- Basil
- Melons
- Green beans
Start indoors
- Corn
- Pumpkins
- Watermelon
- Cantaloupe
- Sunflowers
- Zucchini
- Herbs like cilantro and parsley
- Malabar spinach
- Sweet corn
- Chili peppers
Avoid
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Brussels sprouts
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Kale
- Peas
- Radishes
- Carrots
Next 2 weeks
- Transplant tomato and pepper seedlings outdoors after hardening off
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Begin regular watering schedule as temperatures rise
- Monitor for pests like aphids and caterpillars
- Fertilize established plants with balanced fertilizer
- Thin seedlings in containers and raised beds
- Stake or cage tall plants like tomatoes and peppers
- Prepare soil for late-season crops like pumpkins
- Continue starting heat-loving seeds indoors
- Remove any frost-damaged foliage promptly
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes directly in the ground in April in Dallas?
Yes, April is usually safe for transplanting tomatoes outdoors in Dallas after hardening them off, but watch for late frosts.
Should I use raised beds or containers for peppers?
Both raised beds and containers work well for peppers as long as they receive full sun and consistent moisture.
How often should I water container plants in April?
Water container plants daily or when the top inch of soil feels dry, as containers dry out faster in warm spring weather.
Is it too late to start cool-season crops in April?
Yes, cool-season crops like broccoli and lettuce are best planted earlier; April is too warm and they may bolt or struggle.
What soil preparation is recommended for in-ground planting in April?
Amend soil with compost and ensure good drainage; a balanced fertilizer can support vigorous growth for warm-season crops.
Next steps
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