When Should You Start Planting In Nebraska? - Soil Dynamics

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Nebraska, our state is in zones 4 and 5.

The bottom third of the state is considered a warmer zone and can begin planting at the earliest recommended dates. But the top two-thirds of the state must wait for the frost to dissipate.

One caveat: radishes, asparagus, collards, onions, peas, and turnips can be planted as early as March 15. The cooler weather will actually yield a sweeter tasting radish.

The most critical date to keep in mind is April 15

As the 15th date approaches, you can begin to track temperatures to be sure the danger of frost has passed. Nighttime temperatures need to be above 50 degrees F, and soil temperatures have to be above 60 degrees F to start planting hardier veggies and annual flower transplants.

It is possible to start planting broccoli, cauliflower, lettuce and carrots in the first week of April but beware. If the weather is too cool, it will result in a bitter-tasting product. If you reside in the bottom third of Nebraska, you may be able to get a head start. But to be safe, it’s recommended that you wait until April 15.

Resist the urge to till your soil until it has dried out

Disturbing wet soil can damage soil structure. The first day you believe the soil to be dry, it’s highly recommended that a quality compost improve your nutrient composition and side-step the need for tilling and synthetic fertilizers/weed killer altogether. Using our products can give you peace of mind since it doesn’t use chemicals that will leach into the groundwater.

By May 1st, plant these …

The ground should warm enough to begin planting cantaloupe, cucumber, pumpkin, and summer squash. But wait until mid-May to start planting eggplant, muskmelons, okra, peppers, sweet corn, sweet potatoes, and tomatoes.

To give your plants the upper-hand, plan out your garden prior to planting and you can prevent disease and insects from picking on a particular plant by mixing up the order in which you plant the veggies (tomato - pepper - cabbage - tomato - pepper). Nebraska can be an unpredictable place when it comes to the climate, but paying attention to the temperature and the use of quality soil products can yield a bountiful harvest that can withstand our conditions.

For more specific planting dates, check these helpful sites:

• Vegetable Planting Dates for Nebraska | Garden Guides

• Almanac.com - Omaha Area Planting Guide

• Nebraska.gov - Gardening Site