London City Farm Network: What to Plant and When..

New gardeners always seem to have the same questions. How do I know which seeds to start indoors? When do I start them? Which ones can I plant directly outdoors? And when?

It's important to make sure that you know when to plant what - some seeds are started indoors and then planted outside after the frost-free date (usually May 24 in Ontario), others are planted in early spring when the soil has defrosted and can be worked with, and lastly, others are planted directly from the seed once the frost-free date has passed; around the same time as the seedlings. Wouldn't it be nice to have a list to consult that would let you know which vegetables fall in which category? Ask, and ye shall receive!

Seeds to start indoors and to plant as seedlings:

eggplant
peppers
tomatoes
broccoli
brussels sprouts
cabbage
cauliflower
onions
potatoes

To be seeded directly in early spring:

beets
chard
cilantro
kohlrabi
lettuce
mustard greens
green peas
radishes
spinach
snap peas
asian vegetables (i.e, bok choy, napa cabbage, etc..)
carrots

To be seeded directly after the frost-free date (typically after May 24):

beans
cantaloupes
cucumber
honeydew
melons
okra
squash
corn
watermelons
pumpkins

Hopefully these lists help, but please, always read the instructions on your seed packet to determine when and how those seeds should be planted.

Source: Homegrown Vegetables, Fruits and Herbs--A bountiful, healthful garden for lean times by Jim Wilson, 2010