April in Georgia marks a significant turning point in the gardening season, transitioning from the cool-weather crops of early spring to the heat-loving plants that will dominate the long, hot summer. This month offers a window of opportunity where soil temperatures are finally rising reliably, allowing gardeners to introduce tender transplants and direct-sow seeds for a bountiful summer harvest. The warming weather necessitates a shift in focus, moving away from frost protection toward establishing plants that thrive in high heat and humidity. Successful planting in April lays the groundwork for months of production, making timing and plant selection paramount.
Addressing the Georgia Climate Divide
Georgia’s geography creates a wide variance in planting timelines, primarily dictated by elevation and proximity to the coast. The state spans USDA Hardiness Zones ranging from 6b in the North Georgia mountains to 9a along the warmest coastal and southern areas. This division means that April planting dates are not uniform across the state, requiring gardeners to reference their specific USDA Hardiness Zone and average last frost date.
In the cooler North Georgia mountain regions, the average last spring frost can linger until late April or even early May, making the beginning of the month risky for tender plants. Conversely, gardeners in the Central Piedmont and Coastal Plain regions typically see their last frost occur much earlier, often in late March or early April. While the following plant recommendations are suited for April, northern zone gardeners should wait until the second half of the month or be prepared to protect plants from unexpected cold snaps.
Warm-Weather Vegetable Transplants
April is the month to set out transplants of frost-sensitive, high-value crops, particularly those belonging to the Solanaceae and Cucurbit families, once the soil has warmed sufficiently. Tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant are classic warm-season plants that thrive in Georgia’s long, hot summers. Before planting, seedlings must be “hardened off” by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over one to two weeks, which prevents shock and improves survival rates.
For tomatoes, varieties like ‘Parks Whopper Improved’ or heat-tolerant cherry types are recommended for their ability to produce well despite the intense heat and humidity. Peppers, including bell peppers, jalapenos, and the prolific ‘Shishito’ variety, are heat-lovers that can be planted now for summer harvests. Planting these transplants immediately after the last expected frost date, and ideally after nighttime temperatures consistently remain above 50°F, gives them the necessary head start.
Squash and melons, which include zucchini, yellow squash, watermelon, and cantaloupe, can be started from transplants in April. To maximize success with these crops, incorporate organic matter into the soil and apply mulch immediately after planting, which helps regulate root zone temperatures and retain moisture. Planting them in a location that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily is necessary for optimal growth and fruit production.
Direct-Sow Crops for Summer Harvest
Several essential summer vegetables perform best when their large seeds are sown directly into the garden soil in April, as they do not tolerate the root disturbance associated with transplanting. Corn should be planted in blocks rather than single rows to ensure proper wind pollination for full, well-developed ears. For continuous production, beans, including both bush and pole varieties, should be planted in staggered successions every seven to ten days. This technique prevents a single, overwhelming harvest and ensures a steady supply throughout the growing season.
Okra, a highly heat-tolerant plant, also thrives when direct-seeded in April, providing abundant yields as the summer temperatures climb. Cultivars like ‘Clemson Spineless’ are well-suited for Georgia’s climate. Southern peas, such as black-eyed peas, are another excellent, low-maintenance option that adapt well to hot conditions. When direct-seeding, prepare a smooth seedbed and follow the depth guidelines on the seed packets, opting for loose, well-aerated soil to promote healthy root growth and germination.
Annual Flowers and Culinary Herbs
April is the perfect time to introduce warm-weather annual flowers and culinary herbs, which provide continuous color and flavor throughout the summer. Many popular annuals are planted now as transplants because they are killed by the first frost. Heat-tolerant blooms are ideal choices, as they can withstand the high temperatures and humidity that define a Georgia summer.
Heat-tolerant blooms include:
- Zinnias
- Petunias
- Marigolds
- Wax Begonias
Petunias require full sun to flourish and will bloom continuously from spring until frost, while Marigolds are often planted alongside vegetables as a companion plant. For shady areas, Impatiens and Begonias offer vibrant color options, though they require regular watering to prevent leaf loss. In the herb garden, heat-loving varieties such as Basil, Rosemary, Thyme, and Oregano can be transplanted or directly sown now. Gardeners should consider planting vigorous herbs like mint in containers to prevent their aggressive root systems from spreading and becoming invasive.