Planting calendar
April Planting Guide for San Jose, CA: Raised Beds, Containers, and In-Ground Gardens
April in San Jose is ideal for planting a variety of vegetables, herbs, and flowers in raised beds, containers, or directly in the ground. With mild spring temperatures and minimal frost risk, gardeners can confidently sow warm-season crops and start heat-loving plants indoors. Focus on crops that thrive in full sun and well-drained soil for best results.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Zucchini, Basil, Lettuce, Carrots, Beans, Cucumbers
Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Zucchini
- Basil
- Lettuce
- Carrots
- Beans
- Cucumbers
- Marigolds
Start indoors
- Eggplants
- Melons
- Pumpkins
- Corn
- Okra
- Sunflowers
- Basil (for later transplant)
Avoid
- Broccoli (late plantings may bolt)
- Cabbage (avoid heat stress)
- Spinach (will bolt quickly in heat)
- Peas (best planted earlier)
- Kale (may bolt in warm weather)
Next 2 weeks
- Harden off indoor seedlings before transplanting
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture
- Start succession planting of lettuce and beans
- Monitor for pests like aphids and caterpillars
- Water consistently in containers to prevent drying
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes directly in the ground in April in San Jose?
Yes, April is a great time to plant tomatoes directly in the ground as the soil has warmed and frost risk is low.
How often should I water raised beds and containers in April?
Water raised beds and containers deeply about 2-3 times per week, adjusting based on weather and soil moisture.
Is it necessary to fertilize when planting in April?
Yes, enrich soil with compost or balanced fertilizer to support healthy growth of warm-season crops.
What are good companion plants for tomatoes in containers?
Basil, marigolds, and chives are excellent companions that can help deter pests and improve growth.
Should I protect seedlings from heat in late April?
If temperatures rise above 85°F, provide partial shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent stress.
Next steps
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