what seeds can i plant now in nj

Best Seeds to Plant Now in NJ: Your Ultimate Guide

By David LopezJanuary 22, 2026

Spring is in the air, and if you're a New Jersey gardener, it's time to start planning your vegetable garden. The Garden State's climate allows for a wide variety of seeds to be planted now, from cool-season crops to warm-season ones. Let's dive into what seeds you can plant now in NJ.

Before we get started, remember that the optimal planting time depends on your specific location in NJ and the specific vegetable you're planting. Always check with your local cooperative extension service for the most accurate information.

Cool-Season Crops

Cool-season crops thrive in the cooler temperatures of early spring and fall. They can tolerate light frosts and are typically planted in early to mid-spring in NJ.

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Here are some cool-season crops you can plant now:

Vegetables

Vegetables like lettuce, spinach, and kale are great choices for early spring planting. They grow best in cooler temperatures and will bolt (go to seed) if exposed to hot weather. Plant these seeds directly into the soil, about 1/4 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart.

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Other cool-season vegetables you can plant now include broccoli, cabbage, and radishes. These crops can tolerate a light frost and will be ready to harvest in about 60-75 days.

Herbs

Many herbs also thrive in cooler temperatures. Parsley, cilantro, and dill can be planted now and will provide fresh herbs for your kitchen throughout the spring and early summer.

Plant herb seeds directly into the soil, following the package instructions for depth and spacing. Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate.

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Warm-Season Crops

Warm-season crops prefer the warmer temperatures of late spring and summer. They are typically planted after the last frost date in your area, which is around mid to late May in NJ.

Here are some warm-season crops you can start indoors now for transplanting later:

Vegetables

Vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants are heat-loving plants that should be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Plant seeds in seed-starting mix, following the package instructions for depth and spacing. Provide plenty of light and warmth for the seeds to germinate.

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Other warm-season vegetables you can start indoors now include cucumbers, squash, and beans. These plants can be started indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost date and transplanted outdoors after the last frost.

Flowers

Many flowers are also warm-season plants and can be started indoors now for transplanting later. Marigolds, petunias, and impatiens are great choices for NJ gardens.

Plant flower seeds in seed-starting mix, following the package instructions for depth and spacing. Provide plenty of light and warmth for the seeds to germinate. Transplant the seedlings outdoors after the last frost date.

As you plan your garden, remember to rotate your crops each year to prevent disease and maintain soil health. Also, consider companion planting to attract beneficial insects and deter pests.

Happy gardening, and may your NJ garden be filled with abundance and joy this season!