Starting Seeds in Early Spring for Gardening Success

March in New England is that in-between season, winter’s still clinging on, but you can feel the shift. Snowbanks are shrinking, the sun’s got a little more warmth, and if you’re like us, you’re itching to get growing.

Even though the ground is still cold, we’ve already started our first round of seeds indoors, setting up for a strong start once spring really kicks in. It’s the best way to get ahead, especially for crops that need extra time before they go outside. Here’s what we’re growing, what you can start now, and some tips for early spring planting in a colder climate.

Seedlings sprouting in biodegradable seed trays, started indoors for early spring planting in New England.

What We’re Growing

A couple of weeks ago, we planted our first round of seeds:

Cabbage
Onions
Leeks
Eggplant
Jalapeños & Other Peppers

Most have sprouted, and we’ll be moving them outside into raised beds in the next week or two as the last of the snow melts. We’ll be sharing that process along the way, showing what works for us and how we’re making it happen.

What You Can Start Now

If you’re in New England or a similar climate, there’s plenty you can start growing in mid-March.

Start Indoors (Transplant Later)

Cabbage
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Onions
Leeks
Eggplant
Peppers

Direct Sow Outdoors (Once the Ground is Workable)

Spinach
Kale
Lettuce
Radishes
Peas
Carrots

We’re planning to sow cabbage and spinach outside soon since the daytime temps have been hanging between the low 40s and 60s. If you’re further south, you might be able to get a jump on things even earlier!

If you’re looking for more ways to grow fresh food year-round, check out our guide on how to grow fresh herbs indoors this winter.

Find Your Growing Zone

If you’re not sure what you can plant and when, check your USDA Hardiness Zone. New England ranges from Zone 3 (northern VT & NH) to Zone 7 (southern CT & coastal areas). You can find your zone with the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map.

A Favorite Seed Source

We’ve been getting our seeds from Sow True Seed, a small, independent seed company in Asheville, NC. Their focus is on open-pollinated and heirloom seeds, and their packaging is as beautiful as it is functional.

Next Up in the Garden

This weekend, we’re building a new raised bed for our seedlings and starting more cold-hardy crops like broccoli and cauliflower.

Once the weather settles a bit more, we’ll be getting our first seedlings outside. That’ll be its own adventure, so stay tuned!

Are you starting seeds yet? Let us know what you’re growing!