Jump Start Spring: Top 10 Plants to Get in the Ground in Texas (Late February - Early March)

February might be winding down, but in Texas, spring is just around the corner! It's the perfect time to get a head start on your garden and enjoy a bountiful harvest later in the year. Getting certain plants in the ground early gives them a chance to establish strong roots before the full heat of summer arrives. A thriving garden not only adds beauty to your property but can also increase its value. Thinking of selling? A well-maintained garden makes a great first impression!

Early Spring Planting for Texas Gardens (Late Feb - Early March):

In Texas, late February to early March is an excellent time to begin planting cool-season crops and kickstart some warm-season vegetables. The mild temperatures during this period allow plants to establish roots and grow before the scorching summer heat sets in. Here are 10 great options to consider for early spring planting:

Onions: Onions are a must-have in Texas gardens, and planting them early in the season ensures they have plenty of time to grow before the summer heat. Opt for short-day onions, which are specially bred for the Texas climate. These onions will begin to form bulbs when the day length reaches about 12 hours, which is typical in Texas around late spring. Whether you plant onion sets or transplants, be sure to space them well to allow room for their growth.

Potatoes: Planting potatoes early gives them a long growing season before the hot weather arrives. Certified seed potatoes from local nurseries are ideal for ensuring healthy, disease-free plants. When planting, make sure to bury the seed potatoes 4-6 inches deep in well-draining soil. As the plants grow, you can "hill" the soil around them to encourage more tuber formation, and you’ll be rewarded with a summer harvest.

Spinach: Spinach thrives in the cool temperatures of early spring and can be planted directly in the garden. It grows quickly, providing tender leaves that are perfect for salads and cooking. Spinach seeds can be planted now, and with proper care, you can enjoy a harvest by late spring. Keep the soil moist and ensure the area receives partial to full sunlight for optimal growth.

Lettuce: Just like spinach, lettuce loves the cooler temperatures of early spring. There are many varieties to choose from, including butterhead, Romaine, and loose-leaf types. Plant your lettuce seeds or transplants now for a continuous harvest throughout the spring. To extend your harvest, you can stagger plantings every 2-3 weeks, ensuring fresh, tender greens all season long.

Carrots: Carrots are a cool-season crop that needs loose, well-aerated soil to develop properly. Early spring planting allows them to grow in the mild temperatures before the soil becomes too warm. To get the best results, make sure your soil is free from rocks and debris, and sow the seeds thinly to avoid overcrowding. With proper care, you can look forward to sweet, crunchy carrots by early summer.

Radishes: Radishes are one of the fastest-growing crops, making them perfect for early spring planting. Their quick maturity—often within 4-6 weeks—means you can enjoy their crisp, peppery flavor in no time. Plant radish seeds directly in the soil, spacing them 1-2 inches apart. Radishes prefer full sunlight and well-drained soil, and they’re excellent for companion planting with other cool-season vegetables.

Swiss Chard: Swiss chard is a hardy, nutrient-packed leafy green that does well in cooler weather. It's also tolerant of light frost, making it ideal for planting in late winter or early spring. Swiss chard can be harvested continuously by picking the outer leaves, allowing the plant to keep producing throughout the season. Consider growing both green and colorful varieties for a vibrant, tasty addition to your garden.

Peas: Peas thrive in cool weather, so planting them early in the season is ideal. Whether you choose snow peas, snap peas, or garden peas, they all enjoy the early spring chill. Peas can be direct-seeded into the garden, and they’ll grow quickly, producing edible pods in about 60-70 days. They do well when grown along trellises, helping to save space while also providing support for the plants. Enjoy them fresh from the vine!

Broccoli: While broccoli can be a bit tricky to grow in some parts of Texas due to its need for cooler temperatures, planting it early in the spring can yield a successful harvest. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date, then transplant them into the garden once the soil is workable. If planted early enough, you can enjoy fresh broccoli before the hot summer weather takes hold.

Early Tomatoes: Though the official tomato planting season in Texas typically begins in March or April, you can get a jumpstart by starting tomato seeds indoors now. Growing tomatoes indoors for the first few weeks gives them a head start, ensuring that they’ll be ready for transplanting once the soil has warmed up and the risk of frost has passed. Be prepared to protect your young tomato plants from any late frosts by covering them with blankets or row covers.

Ready to Get Your Garden Started?

Soil Preparation: Ensure your soil is well-drained, fertile, and rich in organic matter. Consider adding compost to improve soil structure and nutrients.

Frost Protection: While early spring can be mild, Texas can still experience unexpected late frosts. Be prepared to cover plants with frost cloths or blankets if needed.

Watering: Keep your plants well-watered, but avoid overwatering. Most of these early spring crops thrive in consistently moist soil, but drainage is key to preventing root rot.

Mulching: A light layer of mulch around your plants can help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

Late February and early March is the perfect time to start planning and planting your Texas garden. These plants are a great way to get a head start on the growing season and enjoy a bountiful harvest. Late February is also an excellent time to start seeds indoors for warm-season crops like tomatoes, peppers, and some herbs. This gives them a head start and allows you to transplant them outdoors later in the spring when the weather is more favorable.

Thinking of buying or selling in the Texas real estate market? Contact us today! We can help you find the perfect property with the ideal space for your dream garden. We understand the value of a beautiful and productive outdoor space, and we're here to help you find your perfect place in the Lone Star State.