Late April marks a turning point for Midwest growers. The days are getting longer, the soil is warming up, and it’s finally time to start planting in earnest. Whether you’re running a small farm or tending a backyard garden, this regional planting guide for the Midwest offers tips on what to plant now—and what local shoppers can expect to find at nearby markets.
What to Plant in Late April
Depending on your exact location in the Midwest, late April is a great time to start both direct sowing and transplanting early crops. Here’s what to focus on:
- Cool-season crops: Lettuce, spinach, mustard greens, and arugula can all go in now.
- Root vegetables: Carrots, radishes, beets, and parsnips are hardy and ready for spring soil.
- Potatoes: Late April is prime time for planting seed potatoes in well-drained beds.
- Alliums: Onions and shallots can be planted from sets.
- Peas: Sugar snap and snow peas thrive with the cooler temps.
If you’re using row covers or high tunnels, you can even get a head start on warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers.
Planting Tips for Success
- Check your soil temperature. Most spring crops do best once the soil reaches 45–50°F.
- Watch the weather. The Midwest can be unpredictable—keep frost cloths handy for late cold snaps.
- Stagger your planting. Successive sowings every couple of weeks ensure a longer harvest window.
- Feed your soil. Early-season compost or balanced fertilizer gives crops a boost out of the gate.
Using this regional planting guide for the Midwest ensures you’re planting at the right time for strong, healthy growth.
What to Expect at Local Markets
If you’re headed to your local farm market or farm stand, here’s what you can expect to see this time of year:
- Spring greens like spinach, arugula, and early lettuce mixes
- Green onions, radishes, and turnips
- Fresh herbs such as chives and cilantro
- Seedlings and garden starts—perfect for jumpstarting your own garden
Shopping local now means fresher food for you and more support for Midwest farmers early in the season.
Why It Matters
Following a regional planting guide for the Midwest helps both farmers and consumers stay connected to the rhythms of the season. At Farm Trader, we’re making it easier than ever to discover what local farms near you are offering and to support them directly—whether you’re growing or just buying what’s fresh.
Start planting and shopping local today—the Midwest growing season is just getting started!
