Spring has officially sprung, and if you’ve been itching to get your hands dirty, there’s no better time than April to kickstart your veggie garden. The soil is warming up, the days are getting longer, and the conditions are just right for seed starting. But here’s the thing—some veggies are way easier to grow from seed than others.
So, whether you’re a total beginner or just looking for no-fuss crops that’ll practically grow themselves, we’ve rounded up 10 foolproof vegetable seeds to start in April. Trust us, these are tried-and-true garden winners.
1. Radishes
If you’re impatient (and hey, who isn’t?), radishes are your new best friend. These spicy little root veggies sprout quickly—some are ready to harvest in just 3 to 4 weeks!
- Why it’s foolproof: Germinates fast and grows well in cool April soil
- Pro tip: Sow directly in the ground every couple of weeks for a steady harvest
2. Lettuce
Lettuce is basically the MVP of spring gardens. It loves cool weather and doesn’t need much space. Whether you’re into crisp romaine or soft butterhead, lettuce is a breeze to grow from seed.
- Why it’s foolproof: Tolerates cooler temps and grows fast
- Pro tip: Start with loose-leaf varieties—they’re more forgiving and you can harvest as needed
3. Spinach
Spinach thrives in April’s mild temps and is loaded with nutrients. It sprouts quickly and doesn’t mind a bit of chill, making it a great early spring choice.
- Why it’s foolproof: Cold-hardy, quick to grow, and low maintenance
- Pro tip: Keep soil consistently moist for the best flavor and tender leaves
4. Carrots
Carrots might take a bit longer to mature, but they’re surprisingly easy to start from seed. Plus, nothing beats pulling up a homegrown carrot.
- Why it’s foolproof: Direct-sow in April and forget it—just keep the soil loose
- Pro tip: Avoid heavy clay soil—carrots love it loose and airy for straight roots
5. Peas
April is the perfect time to get peas in the ground. Whether you’re planting sugar snaps or snow peas, they’ll love the cool air and moist soil.
- Why it’s foolproof: Cold-tolerant and fast-growing
- Pro tip: Give them a little support (like a trellis or tomato cage) and they’ll happily climb their way up
6. Beets
Beets are underrated. They’re beautiful, nutritious, and super easy to grow from seed. And bonus—both the roots and the greens are edible!
- Why it’s foolproof: Grows well in cooler spring temps with minimal fuss
- Pro tip: Thin seedlings early so each beet has space to grow big and round
7. Green Beans (Start Indoors or Wait Until Late April)
If you’re in a warmer zone or have a sunny windowsill, green beans can be started indoors in April. Once the frost risk passes, they’re eager growers.
- Why it’s foolproof: Beans sprout easily and grow fast in warm soil
- Pro tip: Soak seeds overnight to speed up germination
8. Zucchini (Start Indoors in April)
Zucchini is one of those garden crops that gives and gives. While it loves heat, starting seeds indoors in April gives you a jumpstart on an epic summer harvest.
- Why it’s foolproof: Germinates quickly and grows like wildfire once transplanted
- Pro tip: Plant in roomy containers and transplant after danger of frost
9. Swiss Chard
Want color and flavor? Swiss chard delivers both. It’s cold-tolerant and super forgiving if you forget to water now and then.
- Why it’s foolproof: Tough, heat- and cold-resistant, and beautiful in any bed
- Pro tip: Harvest outer leaves often to keep the plant producing
10. Kale
Kale’s not just a trendy superfood—it’s a powerhouse plant that’s easy to grow from seed. April weather is perfect for baby kale to get established.
- Why it’s foolproof: Thrives in cool weather and resists pests better in spring
- Pro tip: Try ‘Lacinato’ (dino kale) for a tender, sweet leaf that looks stunning in the garden
Final Thoughts
If you’re standing in the seed aisle feeling overwhelmed, just remember—April is a sweet spot for planting. These ten vegetables are not only easy to grow, but they also set you up for fresh, homegrown meals all spring and summer long.
No greenhouse? No problem. No green thumb? Still no problem.
With the right seeds and a little April sunshine, you’re already halfway there.
Ready to dig in? Share this list with a fellow gardener and start planning your spring beds today. And hey, don’t forget to label those rows—you’ll thank yourself later!
