By Barbara Pleasant | February 8, 2024
Spring is a season of renewal and abundance, perfect for planning and planting your garden. With so many vegetable varieties to choose from, it’s essential to select those that combine beauty, productivity, and exceptional flavor. Here are five classic vegetable varieties that thrive in cool spring weather. These time-tested, open-pollinated options not only promise a bountiful harvest but also allow you to save seeds for future planting.
1. ‘Dragon’ Carrots
Beauty, flavor, and nutrition packed in one vibrant variety!
Why settle for ordinary carrots when you can grow the striking ‘Dragon’ carrot? With its purplish-red skin and vibrant orange flesh, this carrot is not only a visual treat but also a nutritional powerhouse, boasting as much lycopene as a ripe tomato. Its bold flavor shines when freshly harvested, offering a zesty addition to salads and dishes.
Developed by plant breeder Dr. John Navazio, ‘Dragon’ adapts well to various climates and soil types. The roots typically reach about 7 inches (18 cm) and can be stored in your refrigerator for months, making it a practical and rewarding choice.
2. ‘Little Gem’ Lettuce
Compact, flavorful, and effortlessly charming.
‘Little Gem’ lettuce is a petite variety loved for its soft, buttery leaves and crisp texture. Resembling a smaller romaine, it’s a favorite among European chefs and is gaining popularity in the U.S. The plants grow to about 8 inches (20 cm) tall, with minimal waste due to their compact, upright form.
Ideal for tight spaces, this lettuce thrives when planted only 6 inches (15 cm) apart. Harvested heads store well for up to two weeks in the refrigerator, making it a gardener’s treasure that transitions seamlessly from garden to table.
3. ‘Red Russian’ Kale
A versatile, cold-hardy kale with history and flavor to spare.
Brought to Canada by Russian trappers in the late 1800s, ‘Red Russian’ kale remains a staple in gardens worldwide. Known for its large, flat, and crinkled leaves, this kale becomes tender and buttery when cooked. It’s easy to preserve by freezing or drying, making it a go-to ingredient for soups and stews.
This variety is notably less prone to cabbageworm damage, and its sweet, broccoli-like flower buds are a springtime delicacy when steamed. Whether for its nutritional value or ease of growth, ‘Red Russian’ kale is a dependable choice.
4. ‘Sugar Snap’ Peas
The original snap pea and still the best!
Introduced in 1979 by plant breeder Calvin Lamborn, ‘Sugar Snap’ peas revolutionized gardening with their plump, juicy pods. These vigorous vines can reach 6 feet (2 m) or more, yielding a generous crop over several weeks in favorable weather.
Sweet and crunchy, ‘Sugar Snap’ peas are delightful eaten fresh, and they freeze well for stir-fries or other dishes. With their long history of excellence, they remain a beloved variety among gardeners and chefs alike.
5. ‘Cylindra’ Beets
Perfectly shaped beets for slicing, pickling, and beyond.
First developed in Denmark over a century ago, ‘Cylindra’ beets were designed for perfect pickled slices. Their elongated shape ensures uniformity, and the skins slip off effortlessly after cooking.
Ideal for close spacing, ‘Cylindra’ beets grow upright, making efficient use of garden space. The young leaves are tender and nutritious, comparable to Swiss chard when cooked. This versatile beet is a top choice for gardeners looking for both roots and greens.
Why These Varieties?
Each of these vegetables offers exceptional flavor, stunning appearance, and reliable performance. They’re adaptable to various growing conditions and reward gardeners with rich harvests. By planting these proven varieties, you’ll set the stage for a vibrant and delicious spring garden.
Ready to dig in? Choose your favorites and watch your garden flourish this spring!