What to plant this week in London, ON
With the average last frost not until April 21, London gardeners are still waiting for that final thaw to safely move tender seedlings outside. While you can't sow new seeds yet in the chilly spring air, it's a great time to prepare your beds and plan for the Daikon radishes and garlic that will be ready for harvest soon.
The next 7 days
London, ONGrowing in London right now
- London's clay-heavy soils hold moisture well but drain slowly; add plenty of organic matter now to improve structure before the ground thaws completely.
- Be mindful of late spring frosts common in Southern Ontario; cover transplants with row covers if a sudden drop in temperature is forecasted near April 21.
- Start planning your fall garlic planting schedule, as the region's short growing season requires early autumn establishment for best bulb development.
- Take advantage of the relatively mild winter to mulch heavily around perennials and shrubs to protect them from freeze-thaw cycles.
Sow this week
No direct sowing windows open this week.
Transplant this week
Nothing is due to go out this week.
Harvest soon
2 crops- Daikon Radish
- Garlic
Seasonal tips
- Apply fresh mulch now to retain soil moisture as temperatures rise.
- Test soil pH before adding any compost or amendments for new transplants.
- Keep a close eye on emerging seedlings to protect them from late spring fluctuations.
Pest & disease watch
- Watch for late-emerging aphids on emerging seedlings as temperatures begin to stabilize in mid-April.
- Monitor for slugs and snails which become active after rain events in the region's humid spring conditions.
- Keep an eye out for powdery mildew on brassicas once the weather turns warmer and drier later this month.
Watering this week
Water deeply but less frequently now that the soil is warming up, encouraging strong root development.
Harvest Daikon Radish promptly before the heat sets in to ensure the best crunch and flavor.
London gardening questions
3When should I start planting my vegetable garden seeds indoors for London?
Begin sowing cold-weather crops like peas and carrots indoors now, roughly 6 to 8 weeks before your last frost date of April 21.
Is it safe to transplant seedlings outside next week in London?
Not yet; you must wait for your average last frost date of April 21 before moving anything sensitive outdoors.
What can I plant now in my garden while waiting for spring?
You cannot sow most seeds directly into the ground yet since it is still too early in London's growing season.
Other cities in zone 6a
12See the full zone 6a guide → · Plan your London garden in SproutGuide →