Spring is in the air, and for Oregon gardeners, that means it’s time to start planning and planting for the upcoming growing season. With its diverse climate zones, Oregon offers a wide range of plants that can thrive in its rich soil and varied weather conditions. So, let’s dive into what to plant now in Oregon to make the most of your garden this year.
Before we get started, it’s essential to understand your specific climate zone in Oregon. The state is divided into several USDA hardiness zones, ranging from 5a to 9b. Knowing your zone will help you choose plants that are well-suited to your area and will give you the best chance of success in your garden.
Cool-Season Crops
For gardeners in the cooler, northern parts of Oregon, now is an excellent time to plant cool-season crops that can tolerate frosty conditions and even grow best in cooler temperatures.
Cool-season crops typically mature faster than warm-season crops, allowing you to get a head start on your gardening season. Some popular cool-season crops to consider planting now in Oregon include:
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, kale, and collard greens are not only nutritious but also quite hardy and easy to grow. They prefer cooler temperatures and can even tolerate a light frost. Plant them in well-draining soil with plenty of compost or aged manure mixed in. Keep the soil consistently moist, and you should have a bountiful harvest in no time.
Some varieties to try include ‘Black-Seeded Simpson’ lettuce, ‘Bloomsdale’ spinach, and ‘Red Russian’ kale. You can also mix and match different varieties for a colorful and diverse garden.
Root Vegetables
Root vegetables like carrots, beets, radishes, and turnips are perfect for planting in early spring. They prefer cooler temperatures and can be harvested before the heat of summer sets in. Plant them in deep, loose soil with plenty of space for their roots to grow. Keep the soil consistently moist, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious harvest.
Consider trying ‘Danvers 126’ carrots, ‘Detroit Dark Red’ beets, and ‘French Breakfast’ radishes. You can also plant ‘Hakurei’ turnips for a sweet and tender addition to your garden.
Warm-Season Crops
For gardeners in the warmer, southern parts of Oregon, it’s time to start thinking about warm-season crops that thrive in the longer days and warmer temperatures of summer.
Warm-season crops typically require more time to mature than cool-season crops, so it’s essential to plan accordingly. Here are some popular warm-season crops to consider planting now in Oregon:
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a staple in Oregon gardens and come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. They prefer warm temperatures and plenty of sunlight, making them an excellent choice for the southern parts of the state. Plant them in well-draining soil with plenty of compost or aged manure mixed in. Keep the soil consistently moist, and provide plenty of support as they grow.
Some popular tomato varieties to try include ‘Early Girl’, ‘Brandywine’, and ‘Cherokee Purple’. You can also experiment with different heirloom varieties for a unique and flavorful harvest.
Peppers
Peppers, both sweet and hot, are another warm-season favorite in Oregon. They prefer warm temperatures and plenty of sunlight, making them an excellent choice for the southern parts of the state. Plant them in well-draining soil with plenty of compost or aged manure mixed in. Keep the soil consistently moist, and provide plenty of space for them to grow.
Some popular pepper varieties to try include ‘Bell Boy’ sweet peppers and ‘Jalapeño M’ hot peppers. You can also experiment with different heirloom varieties for a unique and flavorful harvest.
As you plan and plant your garden this spring, remember that patience and persistence are key to a successful harvest. Keep an eye on the weather, and don’t be afraid to ask for advice from local garden centers or experienced gardeners in your area. Happy planting, and here’s to a bountiful and delicious harvest in your Oregon garden this year!
