Spring is here in Baltimore, and with the last frost behind us (typically around April 10th), it’s officially go-time for getting fruits and veggies into the ground. Whether you’re looking to snack on homegrown strawberries or harvest your first carrots, this guide covers everything you need to get growing.
1. Strawberries: Sweet Starts for Spring
Planting Time: Mid-April
Type to Grow: ‘Allstar’ (June-bearing) or ‘Ozark Beauty’ (everbearing)
How to Plant:
Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Plant crowns with the roots spread out and the crown just above soil level. Space plants about 12–18 inches apart.
Care Tips:
Mulch with straw or pine needles to retain moisture and reduce weeds. Water consistently, especially during flowering and fruiting. Remove blossoms the first year if you want stronger plants next year (optional).
2. Blueberries: Acid-Loving Beauties
Planting Time: Mid to late April
Type to Grow: ‘Bluecrop’ or ‘Duke’ (Northern highbush varieties)
How to Plant:
Amend soil with peat moss to lower pH (ideal range: 4.5–5.5). Plant in full sun, 4–5 feet apart for airflow and growth. Mulch heavily with pine bark or sawdust.
Care Tips:
Water deeply once or twice a week. Avoid fertilizers with nitrate nitrogen—use ones designed for acid-lovers. Prune annually in winter to maintain structure.
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3. Raspberries: Easy Cane Growers
Planting Time: Now through early May
Type to Grow: ‘Caroline’ (everbearing red raspberry)
How to Plant:
Pick a spot with full sun and good air circulation. Plant canes 2 feet apart in rows spaced 6–8 feet apart. Set up a simple trellis or support wire system.
Care Tips:
Water deeply once a week. Mulch to keep roots cool and moist. Prune back dead or spent canes in late winter.
4. Bananas: A Tropical Touch in Zone 7b
Planting Time: Wait until late May, once nights stay above 55°F
Type to Grow: ‘Dwarf Cavendish’ (great for containers)
How to Grow:
Start indoors in a large pot with drainage. Use rich, well-draining soil and place in a sunny window or under grow lights. Move outdoors in late spring, bring back inside by October.
Care Tips:
Water often, keeping soil moist but not soggy. Fertilize with balanced tropical plant fertilizer every 4 weeks. Mist leaves for humidity or use a pebble tray.
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5. Vegetables to Plant Right Now
Direct-Sow into Your Garden:
Lettuce – Harvest in 30 days. Plant in partial sun. Spinach – Cool weather favorite. Keep soil moist. Radishes – Quickest reward! Ready in 25 days. Carrots – Thin seedlings after they sprout. Peas – Use trellis. Great companion for lettuce. Beets – Both roots and greens are edible!
Transplant Outdoors Now:
Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, and Onions (If you didn’t start seeds indoors, buy healthy young starts.)
Start Indoors for May Transplant:
Tomatoes Peppers Squash Cucumbers
Pro Tip: Use a row cover to protect tender greens from chilly nights or bugs.
Final Thoughts: Your Garden Calendar Snapshot
Do you have questions about specific care, pests, or pruning? I’ve got your back all season long.