MINNEAPOLIS — I know the feeling, you’re itching to get out into the garden. Well, there are some veggie seeds you can get started right now! Cool-season vegetables can go right in the ground as seeds and in no time you’ll be harvesting.
1. Onion sets
Sets give you a serious head start compared to onion seeds and are a lot easier to handle too! In this part of the world, choose a long-day onion.
2. Lettuce
Choose your favorite variety and sprinkle it in a row. Lettuce grows much better now in cooler weather rather than in summer heat.
3. Kohlrabi
My favorite vegetable! In order to grow kohlrabi you need to start seeds in the cool season before it gets too warm.
4. Kale
Kale can handle some pretty cold temperatures. It will have no problem in your garden now.
5. Radishes
From seed to harvest, radishes are one of the fastest-growing vegetables and a definite flavor of springtime.
6. Spinach
Many greens love growing in cooler weather and spinach is no exception. The flavor is much better when grown in cool conditions.
7. Arugula
Another fabulous green to get in the garden early. Think of the wonderful spring salads you’ll be eating!
8. Mustard
This green is great for sautéing.
9. Peas
We are big fans of snap peas in our house. Sugar peas can get planted now too!
10. Beets
You can’t "beet" the color of this controversial veggie. If you’re a fan, plant them now!
11. Broccoli
It’s hard to grow broccoli in the Upper Midwest because it often gets too hot too quickly. Give yourself a better shot at broccoli success by sowing it early.
12. Carrots
Don’t forget to thin your carrot seedlings to give some room for these big roots to grow.
13. Turnips
Try a new veggie this year by giving turnips some space in your garden.
Bonus tip: Keep seeds and seedlings watered if rain isn’t consistent. Your tiny plants can dry up quickly. Good luck and have fun!
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