Planting calendar
April Planting Guide for Los Angeles Gardens: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
April is an excellent month to plant a variety of vegetables, herbs, and flowers in Los Angeles. With mild spring temperatures, you can confidently sow warm-season crops directly outdoors or start some indoors for later transplanting. Focus on crops that thrive in well-drained raised beds, containers, or in-ground soil.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Basil, Zucchini, Cucumbers, Green beans, Sunflowers
Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Basil
- Zucchini
- Cucumbers
- Green beans
- Sunflowers
- Marigolds
- Lettuce (heat-tolerant varieties)
Start indoors
- Melons
- Pumpkins
- Corn
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes
- Herbs like dill and cilantro
- Chili peppers
- Basil (for later transplant)
- Tomatillos
- Watermelon
Avoid
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Brussels sprouts
- Cabbage
- Kale
- Spinach
- Peas
- Radishes
- Carrots
- Potatoes
Next 2 weeks
- Transplant tomato seedlings started indoors
- Thin lettuce and spinach seedlings
- Mulch around young plants to conserve moisture
- Watch for pests like aphids and caterpillars
- Begin regular watering schedule as temperatures rise
- Fertilize established vegetable plants lightly
- Stake or cage growing tomatoes and peppers
- Plant successive rows of beans for continuous harvest
- Harvest early spring crops like lettuce and radishes
- Prepare beds for summer crops by adding compost
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes directly in the ground in April in Los Angeles?
Yes, April is a good time to plant tomatoes directly outdoors as the risk of frost is minimal and soil temperatures are warming.
Should I start seeds indoors or sow directly in April?
Warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers can be started indoors earlier, but April is suitable for direct sowing many vegetables in Los Angeles.
How often should I water raised beds and containers in April?
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 2-3 days, but adjust based on temperature and plant needs.
Are there any vegetables I should avoid planting in April?
Cool-season crops like broccoli and cabbage are best planted earlier in the year; avoid planting them in April to prevent heat stress.
What are good companion plants for tomatoes in containers?
Basil, marigolds, and nasturtiums are excellent companions that can help deter pests and improve tomato growth.
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