What to Plant in April: A Month-by-Month Guide

Introduction

April is one of the most exciting months in the gardening calendar. With longer daylight hours, warmer weather, and improving soil conditions, this month is ideal for sowing seeds, planting seedlings, and laying the foundation for a productive garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener, managing an allotment, or gardening in containers on your balcony, knowing exactly what to plant in April ensures a successful and rewarding growing season.

This comprehensive guide covers vegetables, herbs, fruits, and flowers perfect for planting in April, providing you with everything you need to know to maximize growth and productivity in your garden.

Why April is Important for Gardeners

April signals the real start of spring gardening. The soil temperature is warming up, frost becomes less frequent, and daylight is increasing, creating optimal conditions for plant growth. It’s an excellent time for direct sowing outdoors and preparing seedlings indoors.

Vegetables to Plant in April

Carrots

Sow carrot seeds directly into well-prepared, stone-free soil for a successful early harvest. Thin seedlings as they grow to allow sufficient space for healthy roots.

Beetroot

April is ideal for planting beetroot seeds directly in the ground. Beetroot thrives in nutrient-rich soil and regular watering.

Lettuce and Salad Leaves

Sow salad leaf seeds like lettuce and rocket directly into the soil. Consider succession sowing every two weeks to ensure continuous harvests.

Spinach

Spinach grows well in the cooler weather of April. Sow seeds directly into fertile soil and water consistently for rapid growth.

Peas

Directly sow garden peas and mangetout outdoors. Provide them with support such as pea sticks or netting to encourage vertical growth.

Onions and Shallots

Plant onion and shallot sets directly into the soil in April for a robust summer harvest. Choose a sunny location and well-drained soil.

Potatoes

Maincrop potatoes planted in April will be ready for harvesting in late summer. Earth up regularly to protect developing tubers.

Cabbage and Kale

Start cabbage and kale seedlings indoors or under protection, then transplant outdoors once sturdy enough, typically late April or early May.

Herbs to Plant in April

Coriander

Sow coriander seeds directly into the ground. Coriander grows best in cool, moist conditions, making April perfect for planting.

Parsley

April is a great time to sow parsley seeds directly outdoors or in pots. Parsley prefers partial shade and regular watering.

Chives

Chives are hardy and easy to grow. Plant seeds directly or divide existing clumps in April.

Dill

Direct sow dill seeds outdoors in April. Dill prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

Basil

Start basil indoors in pots or trays, moving plants outdoors once warmer weather is consistently established in late spring or early summer.

Flowers to Plant in April

Sunflowers

Sow sunflower seeds indoors in early April or directly outdoors later in the month. Ensure a sunny spot for best results.

Sweet Peas

April is ideal for planting out sweet pea seedlings or directly sowing seeds. Provide strong support structures to promote climbing.

Marigolds

Start marigolds in seed trays or small pots indoors, transplanting outdoors once established. Marigolds add vibrant color and can help deter garden pests.

Nasturtiums

Sow nasturtium seeds directly outdoors in April. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sunlight.

Cosmos

Cosmos seeds sown indoors in April will produce beautiful blooms in summer. Move seedlings outside once frost risk passes.

Fruit to Plant in April

Strawberries

Plant strawberry runners or established plants in beds, containers, or hanging baskets for a summer crop. Ensure good drainage and plenty of sun.

Rhubarb

April is the last month suitable for planting rhubarb crowns or potted plants. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.

Blueberries

Plant blueberries in pots filled with ericaceous compost. Ensure consistent watering, preferably with rainwater, to maintain acidity levels.

Sowing Indoors in April

Tomatoes

Start tomato seeds indoors or in a heated greenhouse during April. Transplant seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost passes, typically in late May or June.

Chillies and Peppers

Begin sowing chilli and pepper seeds indoors, providing plenty of warmth and consistent moisture to encourage germination.

Courgettes, Squash, and Pumpkins

Sow seeds indoors in pots and transplant outdoors once the weather warms sufficiently. These plants need protection from frost and chilly nights.

Jobs to Do in April to Prepare for Planting

Weed regularly to ensure plants have sufficient nutrients and water.
Mulch beds to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health.
Prepare seedbeds by raking to a fine tilth and removing debris.
Harden off seedlings grown indoors gradually before planting outdoors.
Feed overwintered plants with organic fertilizers to encourage growth.

Succession Sowing in April

Succession sowing ensures steady harvests throughout the growing season. Consider succession sowing the following crops every two weeks:

Radishes
Lettuce
Spinach
Spring onions
Turnips

This approach prevents gluts and maximizes productivity.

Container Gardening Tips for April

Limited space gardeners can successfully grow many plants in containers:

Choose deep containers for root crops like carrots and beetroot.
Grow bags are excellent for potatoes and tomatoes.
Opt for compact vegetable varieties ideal for container gardening.

April Garden Checklist

Sow fast-growing vegetables like lettuce and radish.
Prepare garden beds for upcoming summer crops.
Inspect early for pest infestations and manage accordingly.
Begin feeding fruit trees and bushes with nutrient-rich compost.
Keep seedlings well-watered.
Protect tender seedlings from slugs and frost with protective coverings like fleece or cloches.

Conclusion

April offers gardeners a unique opportunity to cultivate a flourishing garden. By carefully selecting suitable vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits, you set your garden on a productive path for the months ahead. Remember to maintain good gardening practices like succession sowing, regular watering, pest control, and adequate soil preparation to maximize success and enjoyment from your garden.