What to plant this week in Topeka, KS
Topeka gardeners are in a crucial window where the last frost isn't until April 21, meaning most spring crops must wait another month before hitting the soil. While you cannot transplant anything yet due to lingering chill risks, this is the prime time to sow garlic cloves for next year's harvest.
The next 7 days
Topeka, KSGrowing in Topeka right now
- Protect new plantings from Topeka's unpredictable late-April freezes with row covers until the ground warms significantly.
- The city's heavy clay soil tends to stay cold longer; add compost now to improve drainage if you plan to till later in spring.
- Avoid planting cool-season crops like lettuce or peas yet, as temperatures above 50°F will trigger bolting before harvest.
- Focus on indoor seed starting for tomatoes and peppers since outdoor transplants are still too risky until late April.
Sow this week
1 crops- Garlic
Transplant this week
Nothing is due to go out this week.
Harvest soon
2 crops- Daikon Radish
- Garlic
Seasonal tips
- Plant hardy garlic cloves immediately in well-drained soil with tips pointing upward.
- Prepare garden beds by loosening compacted soil to encourage healthy root development for next year's crops.
- Apply a layer of compost around existing perennials to protect emerging plants from late frosts.
Pest & disease watch
- Dormant winter bark sprays are the only effective way to control scale insects that have overwintered in Topeka's urban trees.
- Monitor garlic fields closely for aphids, which can quickly colonize new growth as temperatures rise above freezing.
- Beware of fungal spores on stored bulbs if you plan to harvest your Daikon radishes and garlic early; ensure good air circulation.
Watering this week
Water garlic cloves lightly after planting, then wait until the soil is moist but not soggy before watering again.
Since Daikon radish will be ready soon, mark those spots now so you can plant a quick succession crop like lettuce once they are harvested.
Topeka gardening questions
3Can I transplant my tomato seedlings into the ground this week in Topeka?
No, waiting until after April 21 is essential because a late freeze could kill young tomatoes. Keep them indoors or under protection until the danger of frost has fully passed.
When should I harvest my Daikon radishes and garlic that are ready soon?
Pull your Daikon radishes immediately to prevent them from bolting or rotting in the soil. For garlic, wait for the lower leaves to turn yellow before digging up your bulbs.
How does Topeka's clay soil affect my garlic planting success?
Garlic thrives in loose soil but can rot if planted too deep in heavy clay. Amend your beds with organic matter to ensure proper drainage and root expansion for the upcoming season.
Other cities in zone 6b
12See the full zone 6b guide → · Plan your Topeka garden in SproutGuide →