When Should I Start Planting In Spring?

“Hi there! I’m looking forward to starting my very own backyard farm this spring. I live in Calgary, Alberta, and I have zero experience with gardening. My backyard gets plenty of sunlight, and I want to utilize the space efficiently. When should I start planting in spring? I’d love to know what to plant first and any tips for a newbie like me. Thanks for your help!” Cheers, Lauren, Calgary, Canada.

When Should I Start Planting In Spring?

Hi Lauren, it’s wonderful you’re taking the plunge into backyard farming! Let’s walk through the steps on when to start planting in spring and how to maximize your backyard’s potential.

Understanding Your Climate

The timing of your planting largely depends on your local climate. In Calgary, Alberta, which belongs to a colder climate zone, the growing season is shorter. Here are some useful considerations:

• Last Frost Date: Typically, Calgary’s last frost date is around mid-May. Knowing this date is crucial as it helps you to time your planting.
• First Frost Date: This falls around early October. Mark this on your calendar to ensure your crops are harvested before the frost returns.

Types of Plants and Their Needs

Different plants have varying requirements in terms of when to plant them. Here’s a breakdown:

Cool-Season Crops

• Leafy Greens: Spinach, lettuce, and kale can be planted 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. They tolerate the cooler temperatures of early spring.
• Root Vegetables: Carrots, beets, and radishes are also cool-season veggies that can withstand chilly weather.

Start these crops from seeds directly in your garden beds as early as mid-April, Lauren. They can handle the occasional light frost.

Warm-Season Crops

• Tomatoes and Peppers: These need warmer soil and shouldn’t be planted until after the last frost date, so aim for late May.
• Beans and Cucumbers: Similarly, these thrive in warmer temperatures. Plant them once the soil has consistently warmed up.

It’s a good idea to start them indoors in early April, so by May, you’ll have healthy seedlings ready to transplant.

Starting Seeds Indoors

Starting seeds indoors can give your plants a head start. Here’s how to do it effectively:

1. Choose the Right Containers: Use seed trays or small pots. Ensure they have drainage holes.
2. Use Good Quality Soil: Seed-starting mix works best. It’s light, retains moisture, and provides essential nutrients.
3. Light and Water: Place the trays in a sunny window or under grow lights. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
4. Transplanting: Harden off the seedlings by placing them outside for a few hours daily, gradually increasing the time over a week before transplanting them into the garden.

Preparing Your Garden Beds

Before planting, it’s vital to prepare your garden beds:

• Clear Debris: Remove any weeds, rocks, and old plant material.
• Soil Testing: Test your soil’s pH level. Most vegetables prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0).
• Enrich Soil: Add compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil. This improves texture and fertility.
• Raised Beds: If the soil is poor, consider building raised beds filled with high-quality soil.

Companion Planting

Companion planting can boost your garden’s health and productivity. Here are some beneficial pairings:

• Tomatoes and Basil: Basil repels pests that often plague tomatoes.
• Carrots and Onions: Onions can deter carrot flies, protecting your carrots.
• Beans and Corn: Beans provide nitrogen to the soil, which benefits corn.

Lauren, try incorporating these pairings to make your garden more efficient and resilient.

Pest Control and Maintenance

Maintaining the health of your plants is paramount. Here’s how:

• Regular Inspection: Check plants regularly for signs of pests or diseases. Early detection is key.
• Natural Pest Control: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for common pests. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs.
• Mulching: Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Organic options like straw or grass clippings work well.

Watering Techniques

Proper watering is vital for healthy plants:

• Consistent Schedule: Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and allow foliage to dry during the day, preventing diseases.
• Deep Watering: Water deeply to encourage roots to grow further down. This helps plants become more drought-resistant.
• Drip Irrigation: For efficiency, consider installing a drip irrigation system. It directs water straight to the roots, reducing wastage.

Season Extenders

In colder regions like Calgary, using season extenders can help you start earlier and harvest later:

• Row Covers: Lightweight fabric that protects plants from frost and pests while allowing light and water through.
• Cold Frames: Mini-greenhouses that trap heat and extend the growing season.
• Cloche: Individual plant coverings made from glass or plastic that protect against cold and wind.

Planting Calendar

Creating a planting calendar helps keep your backyard farm organized and on track:

Final Thoughts…

Lauren, thank you for your question! Starting a backyard farm in Calgary involves timing your planting to your local climate, understanding the needs of different plants, and preparing your garden beds correctly. Utilizing companion planting, proper watering techniques, and season extenders can make your backyard farm not only successful but enjoyable.

Best of luck with your backyard farm! Enjoy the journey and the bounty it brings.