April 6, 2026

Spring Starts Early: What to Plant Now in Cool New England Weather

If you’ve been waiting for consistently warm weather to start planting, you don’t have to. Many plants actually thrive in the cool, unpredictable conditions of early spring—making now one of the best times to get started. From fresh herbs and early vegetables to colorful flowers and dependable perennials, these cool-tolerant plants are ready to go in the ground and grow strong, even when the weather can’t quite make up its mind.

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What Vegetables Can Be Planted in Cold Weather?

Many vegetables thrive in cool soil and crisp air. These early-season crops don’t just tolerate the cold—they perform best in it.

Look for:

• Leafy greens like lettuce and spinach
• Hardy vegetables like kale and Swiss chard
• Root crops like carrots, beets, and radishes
• Peas and other cool-season favorites

These crops germinate well in cooler soil and often taste better when grown in spring conditions. Starting now means earlier harvests—and less stress from summer heat later on.

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What Herbs Grow Well in Early Spring?

Not all herbs need warm weather to get going. In fact, some of the most popular kitchen staples prefer the cool, steady conditions of early spring.

Great choices include:

• Parsley
• Chives
• Thyme
• Other hardy perennial and biennial herbs

These herbs establish quickly in cool weather and will continue producing as the season warms up.

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What Flowers Can Handle Cold Spring Temperatures?

If you’re craving color after a long winter, you’re in luck—there are plenty of flowers that can go out now and brighten up your space right away.

Look for early-season annuals like:

• Pansies
• Alyssum
• Dusty Miller
• And other colorful annuals

These plants are built for the season—handling cool days and even light frosts while continuing to look great.

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What Perennials Can You Plant Now That Handle Cold Spring Weather?

Many perennials are perfectly suited for early spring planting and won’t mind the cold, unpredictable weather.

Look for:

• Hellebores
• Bleeding heart (Dicentra)
• Lungwort (Pulmonaria)
• Columbine (Aquilegia)
• Brunnera
• Foxglove (Digitalis)
• Perennial salvia

Planting now helps them establish strong roots early, setting them up for better growth and blooms as the season warms.

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How Cold Is Too Cold to Plant?

This is one of the most common questions—and the answer might surprise you.

Most cold crops can handle:

• Daytime temperatures in the 40s and 50s
• Nighttime temperatures near (or slightly below) freezing
• Light frosts without issue

The key is avoiding extreme cold snaps or frozen soil. If the ground is workable, you’re generally good to plant.

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Why Should You Start Planting Now Instead of Waiting?

Planting early isn’t just about getting ahead—it’s about working with the season.

When you plant cold crops now:

• You extend your growing season
• Plants establish in ideal conditions
• You reduce the rush (and stress) of peak spring planting
• Your garden starts looking full and productive sooner

Plus, let’s be honest—after a long winter, it just feels good to get your hands in the soil again.

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Ready to Get Growing This Spring?

Even if the weather has been a little unpredictable, there’s a whole world of plants that are ready to go in the ground right now. From fresh herbs and early vegetables to colorful flowers and dependable perennials, cold crops are your ticket to kicking off the season with confidence.

Stop by and explore everything that’s ready to plant now—our team is happy to help you choose the right plants and get your garden off to a strong start.