What to Plant Now in NJ: Top Veggies for Your Garden

Spring is in full swing in the Garden State, and that means it's the perfect time to start planting your vegetable garden. New Jersey's diverse climate allows for a wide variety of vegetables to be grown, and with careful planning, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest throughout the summer and fall. So, let's dive into the world of vegetable gardening in New Jersey and explore what veggies you can plant now.

Before we get started, it's essential to understand that New Jersey's climate can vary greatly depending on whether you're in the north, central, or southern part of the state. For this article, we'll focus on the USDA Plant Hardiness Zones that cover most of New Jersey, which are Zones 6 and 7. With that in mind, let's explore the best vegetables to plant in early spring.

Cool-Season Vegetables

Cool-season vegetables are those that thrive in cooler temperatures and can be planted in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. These veggies are perfect for New Jersey's climate and can be planted now to get a head start on the growing season.

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens are some of the easiest and most rewarding vegetables to grow, and they love the cooler temperatures of early spring. Now is the perfect time to plant lettuce, spinach, kale, and collard greens. These greens can be harvested within a few weeks of planting, and they're incredibly versatile in the kitchen.

To ensure a continuous harvest, consider succession planting. This involves planting a new batch of seeds every two weeks or so, allowing you to enjoy fresh greens throughout the season. Additionally, choose heat-tolerant varieties like 'Black-Seeded Simpson' lettuce or 'Georgia Southern' collards for better performance in New Jersey's warmer months.

Root Vegetables

Root vegetables are another excellent choice for early spring planting. These veggies can withstand cooler temperatures and will be ready to harvest just as the weather starts to warm up. Consider planting carrots, beets, radishes, and turnips now for a delicious harvest in late spring or early summer.

When planting root vegetables, make sure to prepare your soil well by adding plenty of compost or other organic matter. This will help ensure that your roots grow straight and strong. Also, keep in mind that some root vegetables, like carrots, prefer deeper soil to grow properly. If your soil is shallow, consider planting shorter varieties or growing your roots in containers.

Warm-Season Vegetables

Warm-season vegetables are those that prefer warmer temperatures and should be planted after the last frost date in your area. While it might seem counterintuitive to plant these veggies now, starting them indoors or using row covers can help protect them from cooler temperatures and ensure a successful harvest.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a quintessential summer vegetable and a favorite among New Jersey gardeners. Now is the perfect time to start your tomato seeds indoors, or you can purchase seedlings from a local nursery. When choosing tomato varieties, opt for those that are well-suited to New Jersey's climate, such as 'Early Girl,' 'Cherokee Purple,' or 'Patio.'

To help your tomatoes thrive, make sure to provide them with plenty of sunlight, water, and nutrients. Consider using stakes or cages to support your plants and prevent them from sprawling. Additionally, be on the lookout for common tomato pests like hornworms and keep an eye out for signs of disease, such as early blight or Septoria leaf spot.

Peppers and Eggplants

Peppers and eggplants are heat-loving plants that can be started indoors now and transplanted outside after the last frost. Both vegetables come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, offering plenty of options for the home gardener.

When growing peppers and eggplants, make sure to provide them with plenty of warmth and sunlight. These plants can be sensitive to cooler temperatures, so consider using row covers or a greenhouse to help protect them. Additionally, keep an eye out for pests like aphids or whiteflies, which can cause damage to your plants.

As the gardening season progresses, don't forget to rotate your crops and practice good garden hygiene to help prevent disease and pests. And most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process of growing your own vegetables in the Garden State!