5 Must-Do Spring Garden Prep Steps for a Thriving Vegetable Garden

Vera Reinke
Apr 9
2 min read

You know spring is here when dandelions take front stage! — You know spring is officially here when dandelions take front stage!

Spring is just around the corner (just kidding, it is here!), so it's time to start preparing your garden for a successful growing season! Whether you're a beginner gardener or looking to improve your results this year, these five steps will set you up for a thriving vegetable garden.

1. Refresh & Prepare Your Soil

Healthy soil is the foundation of a productive garden. After a long winter, it's essential to check on your soil and make any necessary improvements.

Test Your Soil: A simple soil test (available through extension offices) will tell you the pH and nutrient levels.
Add Compost & Amendments: Mix in organic compost, aged manure, or other soil boosters to replenish nutrients.
Turn & Aerate the Soil: Loosen compacted soil to improve drainage and root growth.

2. Decide What to Start Indoors vs. Direct Sow

Some vegetables thrive when started indoors, while others prefer to be sown directly in the garden.

Start Indoors: Tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and brassicas (like broccoli and cabbage) benefit from an early indoor start.
Direct Sow: Peas, carrots, radishes, spinach, and lettuce can be planted directly into the garden when the soil is workable.

3. Choose & Plan Your Plants Wisely

Make a list of what you want to grow, keeping your climate, space, and personal preferences in mind.

Go for Cool-Season Crops First: Early spring is perfect for lettuce, radishes, beets, carrots, kale, snow peas, and onions.
Think Succession Planting: Plan to replant quick-growing crops like radishes and greens every few weeks for a continuous harvest. When you pull the radish out, toss in a new seed!
Companion Planting: Group plants that benefit each other, like tomatoes and basil or carrots and onions, that help each other.

4. Map Out Your Garden Layout

Before you plant, sketch out a rough layout of your garden to maximize space and efficiency.

Consider Sun & Shade Needs: Most vegetables need at least 6–8 hours of sunlight daily.
Use Vertical Space: Trellises and supports can help maximize space for climbing plants like peas and cucumbers.
Plan for Accessibility: Leave enough space between rows for easy access and maintenance.

5. Get Ahead of Pests & Weeds

Spring is the best time to prevent problems before they start!

Mulch Early: A layer of mulch helps suppress weeds and retain moisture.
Use Row Covers: Lightweight fabric can protect young plants from pests like flea beetles and cabbage worms.
Encourage Beneficial Insects: Plant flowers like marigolds and alyssum to attract pollinators and pest-eating insects.

By taking these steps now, you'll set yourself up for a thriving, productive garden all season long. Happy Gardening!

Want expert guidance in planning your garden? I'd love to help! Schedule a consultation with me.