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 start some seeds indoors for later transplanting. Be cautious of late cold snaps early in the month.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Okra, Sweet potatoes, Basil, Cucumbers, Squash

Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes
- Basil
- Cucumbers
- Squash
- Beans
- Melons
Start indoors
- Watermelon (for transplant)
- Pumpkin
- Corn
- Sunflowers
- Herbs like dill and cilantro
Avoid
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Peas
- Radishes
Next 2 weeks
- Harden off indoor seedlings before transplanting
- Mulch raised beds to retain moisture and control weeds
- Monitor soil moisture closely in containers
- Fertilize warm-season crops as they grow
- Watch for pests like aphids and caterpillars
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes directly in the ground in April in Dallas?
Yes, April is a good time to plant tomatoes outdoors in Dallas as the risk of frost diminishes.
Should I start peppers indoors or plant them outside in April?
Peppers can be started indoors early April or planted outside mid to late April when temperatures are consistently warm.
Is it safe to plant leafy greens in April in Dallas?
Leafy greens like lettuce and spinach are best avoided in April due to rising temperatures causing bolting.
How often should I water container plants in April?
Containers may need watering daily or every other day in April, depending on weather and plant size.
What soil preparation is recommended for raised beds in April?
Add compost and a balanced fertilizer to raised beds before planting to ensure nutrient-rich, well-draining soil.
Next steps
Get a personalized planting plan
Answer a few questions and generate a plan for your exact location and setup.
Build your garden shopping list
Get a starter kit checklist for what you want to grow (with optional links).
Ask the Gardener
Get quick answers and next-step guidance for your garden.
Want this page for a different city? Try the tool and enter your ZIP: Plant this month.