Getting a head start on your garden is a smart move in Pennsylvania’s unpredictable spring. By planting certain herbs and vegetables indoors or under cover 8 weeks before the last frost, you can enjoy an earlier and more productive harvest. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out, here are 12 plants and herbs that thrive when started early.
1. Tomatoes
Tomatoes love warm weather, but starting seeds indoors 8 weeks before the last frost gives them the time they need to establish strong roots. Once the danger of frost has passed, transplant them outside for a bountiful summer harvest.
Tip: Use a grow light to give your tomato seedlings the best start, as they need 12-16 hours of light daily.
2. Peppers
Both sweet and hot peppers benefit from an early indoor start. These heat-loving plants need a long growing season, so starting them indoors ensures they have enough time to produce mature fruit.
Tip: Keep soil temperatures warm (around 70-80°F) for successful germination.
3. Broccoli
Broccoli is a cool-weather crop that thrives when started indoors and transplanted as the weather warms. Starting seeds early ensures you can harvest heads before the heat of summer sets in.
Tip: Harden off your broccoli seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor temperatures before transplanting.
4. Cabbage
Another cool-season favorite, cabbage does well when started indoors. By the time the ground warms up, your seedlings will be ready to grow into crisp, full heads.
Tip: Space cabbage plants at least 12-18 inches apart to give them room to mature.
5. Cauliflower
Like broccoli, cauliflower prefers cooler temperatures. An early start helps you avoid summer heat, which can cause heads to bolt or become bitter.
Tip: Keep moisture levels consistent to prevent cracking or splitting of cauliflower heads.
6. Lettuce
Lettuce is a fast-growing leafy green that thrives in cool weather. Start seeds indoors or in a cold frame for an early spring harvest.
Tip: Choose a variety of lettuce types (butterhead, romaine, leaf) to enjoy a continuous harvest.
7. Spinach
Spinach is another cold-tolerant green that grows well when started early. It matures quickly and can be harvested multiple times through cut-and-come-again methods.
Tip: Keep soil moist but not waterlogged to prevent bolting.
8. Onions
Starting onions from seed gives you a wider variety to choose from. Begin indoors and transplant once the soil is workable.
Tip: Use onion sets for a quicker harvest or seeds for more variety and longer storage.
9. Parsley
Parsley is a hardy herb that takes a while to germinate, making it ideal to start indoors 8 weeks before the frost ends.
Tip: Soak seeds overnight before planting to speed up germination.
10. Chives
Chives are a low-maintenance perennial herb that can be started indoors for an early spring harvest. Their mild onion flavor enhances a variety of dishes.
Tip: Divide mature clumps every few years to keep them vigorous.
11. Basil
Although basil loves warmth, starting seeds indoors gives you a jumpstart on fresh herbs. Wait until temperatures stay above 50°F before transplanting outside.
Tip: Pinch back the top leaves to encourage bushier growth and prevent flowering.
12. Thyme
Thyme is a hardy, aromatic herb that thrives when given a head start indoors. Once established, it can tolerate cooler weather.
Tip: Provide well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight for the best flavor.
Final Thoughts
Starting these plants and herbs 8 weeks before the last frost in Pennsylvania gives you a strong, healthy garden and an extended growing season. With a little planning and care, you can enjoy fresh vegetables and herbs long before the heat of summer arrives. Happy planting!
