Planting calendar
April Planting Guide for Los Angeles Gardens: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
April in Los Angeles is ideal for planting a variety of 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. Avoid frost-sensitive plants early in the month and prepare for consistent warm weather.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Basil, Zucchini, Cucumbers, Beans, Melons
Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Basil
- Zucchini
- Cucumbers
- Beans
- Melons
Start indoors
- Corn
- Okra
- Pumpkins
- Winter Squash
- Sweet Potatoes
Avoid
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Brussels Sprouts
- Cabbage
- Kale
Next 2 weeks
- Transplant indoor-started tomatoes and peppers outdoors after hardening off
- Begin mulching raised beds to retain moisture and control weeds
- Monitor soil moisture closely in containers, watering as needed
- Start succession planting beans every two weeks for continuous harvest
- Watch for pests like aphids and caterpillars; treat early
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes directly in the ground in April in Los Angeles?
Yes, April is a good time to transplant tomato seedlings outdoors as the risk of frost is minimal and temperatures are warming.
Should I start peppers indoors or plant directly outside?
Start peppers indoors early in April and transplant them outdoors once they are sturdy and temperatures are consistently warm.
How often should I water container plants in April?
Water container plants when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 2-3 days, but adjust based on weather and plant needs.
What vegetables should I avoid planting in April in Los Angeles?
Avoid cool-season crops like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage as they may bolt or struggle in warming temperatures.
Is mulching beneficial in April for raised beds?
Yes, mulching helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature as the weather warms.
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.