Getting your timing right is the first step to a great harvest of leafy vegetables. Knowing exactly when to plant greens in Georgia is the key to avoiding bitter, bolted plants and enjoying a long, productive season.
Our state’s long growing season and varied climate zones offer fantastic opportunities. You can grow everything from crisp lettuce to hearty collards. This guide will walk you through the optimal seasonal timing for both spring and fall plantings, which are the best times for most greens.
When to Plant Greens in Georgia
This simple rule covers most leafy greens: plant them in the cool weather of early spring and again in the late summer or fall. Georgia’s heat is the biggest challenge, as it causes greens to bolt, or go to seed, becoming bitter. The goal is to grow them during the cool periods before and after the intense summer heat.
Understanding Georgia’s Growing Zones
Georgia spans USDA hardiness zones 6b in the mountains to 9a along the coast. This affects your specific planting dates.
- North Georgia (Zones 6b-7b): Later spring starts and earlier fall frosts. You’ll plant a few weeks later in spring and earlier in fall compared to the south.
- Middle Georgia (Zones 8a-8b): This is the sweet spot for a long, productive cool season.
- South Georgia (Zones 8b-9a): Earlier springs and much later falls. You can plant earlier in spring and much later in fall, often growing greens straight through winter.
Spring Planting Calendar
The spring planting window is all about getting seeds in the ground as soon as the soil is workable. You want greens to mature before the summer heat arrives.
- Optimal Spring Planting Period: Late February through Mid-April.
- North GA: Start seeds indoors or transplant in late March to early April.
- Middle & South GA: You can often direct sow seeds outdoors as early as late February.
Best Greens for a Spring Planting
Choose fast-maturing varieties that can handle a light frost but also some warming temps.
- Lettuce (leaf, romaine)
- Spinach
- Kale
- Swiss Chard
- Arugula
- Mustard Greens
Fall Planting Calendar
Fall is often the premier season for greens in Georgia. The soil is warm for quick germination, and as days shorten and cool, greens become incredibly sweet. The key is counting backwards from your first average frost date.
- Optimal Fall Planting Period: Late August through October.
- North GA: Aim for August to early September.
- Middle GA: Plant from early September to mid-October.
- South GA: You can plant from late September through November, or even later for winter harvest.
Best Greens for a Fall Planting
These greens tolerate frost well and often taste better after a light chill.
- Collard Greens
- Turnip Greens
- Kale (especially winter varieties)
- Spinach
- Broadleaf Mustard
- Mache (Corn Salad)
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Follow these steps for success whether your planting in spring or fall.
1. Prepare Your Soil
Greens thrive in rich, well-draining soil. A few weeks before planting, work 2-3 inches of compost or well-rotted manure into your garden bed. A soil test from your local UGA extension office is always a good idea to check pH; most greens prefer a pH between 6.0 and 6.8.
2. Sowing Seeds or Transplanting
You can direct sow most greens seeds or start them indoors for a head start, especially in spring.
- Create shallow rows about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep.
- Sow seeds sparingly along the row.
- Cover lightly with soil and water gently.
- Keep the soil consistently moist until seeds sprout.
For transplants, space them according to the packet directions—usually 6-12 inches apart.
3. Watering and Feeding
Consistent moisture is crucial for tender leaves. Water deeply at the base of plants 1-2 times per week, depending on rainfall. A layer of mulch helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 3-4 weeks to promote steady growth.
4. Managing Pests and Problems
Common pests include aphids, cabbage loopers, and flea beetles. Check plants regularly. You can often control them with a strong spray of water, hand-picking, or using organic insecticidal soap. Row covers are an excellent preventive measure, especialy for fall crops.
Tips for Extending Your Harvest
Use these strategies to keep fresh greens on your table for months.
- Succession Planting: Sow a new short row of seeds every 2-3 weeks during the planting window for a continuous harvest.
- Use Shade Cloth: In spring, use a 30-40% shade cloth to protect late plantings from early heat waves.
- Cold Frames & Row Covers: In fall, use these to protect plants from early frosts and extend harvests right into winter. Many greens, like kale and collards, can survive under cover all winter in much of Georgia.
- Harvest the “Cut-and-Come-Again” Way: For leaf lettuce, spinach, chard, and young kale, harvest the outer leaves first, allowing the center to keep producing new growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What month is best to plant greens in Georgia?
For spring, March is generally the safest bet statewide. For fall, September is your prime planting month across most of the state.
Can you grow greens in Georgia during the winter?
Yes! In Middle and South Georgia, cold-hardy greens like collards, kale, and spinach often survive winter with minimal protection. In North Georgia, use a cold frame or heavy row cover for winter harvests.
When should I plant collard greens in Georgia?
Collards are primarily a fall crop for the best flavor. Plant them about 6-8 weeks before your first expected fall frost. For a spring crop, plant them very early, as soon as the soil can be worked.
How late can you plant lettuce in Georgia?
For a fall crop, you can plant lettuce until about 6-8 weeks before the first hard frost. In South Georgia, this can mean planting into October or even early November for protected growth.
What greens grow well in Georgia heat?
Most greens struggle in peak summer heat. However, Swiss chard and Malabar spinach are two heat-tolerant options that can produce through the summer if given some afternoon shade and ample water.
By aligning your gardening efforts with Georgia’s cool seasons, you’ll be rewarded with baskets of fresh, flavorful greens. Remember to adjust dates for your specific zone, prepare your soil well, and don’t be afraid to experiment with succession planting. With this timing guide, you’re set for a productive and delicious green-growing year.