What is appropriate for this season?

plots ready for planting.

As I write this, we are ending the first week of May. This is the time of year we are itching to get out and plant our gardens, but we must follow a few simple principles to have success.

1. Plant appropriate things at the appropriate time. The biggest factor in germination is soil temperature. Crops that will germinate and grow in 50 - 60 degree soil temps (which is probably where we are right now) include:

   - Potatoes

   - Onions and their kin (leeks, bunching onions)

   - peas

   - Cabbage family - broccoli, kale, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts

   - lettuce

   - spinach

   - Swiss chard

2. Seeds that need warmer soil temps to germinate (around 70 degrees) include:

   - beans

   - Corn

   - cucumbers

   - squashes of all kinds

   - Most flower seeds

3. Tender plants need to be planted after danger of frost is past. I usually wait until Memorial Day weekend or later for putting these outside in the garden:

   - Tomato plants

   - Pepper Plants

   - Basil

   - Eggplant

This list is not exhaustive, but it gives you a guideline of where to start. Plots are now tilled up. If you have not had your plot assigned yet, and want one, please contact me to set up a time to meet me at the garden and get your plot assigned.

Starting on Monday, May 11th, I will have transplants of some types of heirloom tomatoes and some peppers available. These still need to be protected and grown for a few more weeks before they are ready to plant outside. You may take what you like, but you need to:

• Set up an appointment with me to come out to my farm to get your plants.

• Bring pots with soil in them to transfer the plants into.

I will also be placing some seed potatoes in the garden shed starting today (May 8, 2026). They are mostly Huckleberry Gold variety, which is an amazing winter keeper. I am still eating mine from last year. These are available first come first serve to anyone who wants them. They can be planted right away.