When to Plant Vegetables in the UK
Knowing when to plant vegetables is one of the most important parts of successful gardening in the UK. Because the climate is cooler and frost can last into spring, planting too early can damage young plants.
The good news is that once you understand the basic planting seasons, vegetable gardening becomes much easier.
This guide explains when to plant vegetables throughout the year in the UK.
Understanding the UK growing seasons
Most vegetable planting in the UK happens between March and June, when the soil begins to warm and the risk of frost decreases.
A simple way to think about the gardening year is:
Early spring: start seeds indoors or sow hardy vegetables
Late spring: plant most vegetables outdoors
Summer: continue sowing fast-growing crops
Autumn: harvest and prepare for winter
You don’t need perfect timing — vegetables are often more forgiving than beginners expect.
Early spring planting (March–April)
As temperatures begin to rise, you can start planting hardy vegetables outdoors.
Common early spring vegetables include:
If the weather is still cold, covering soil with fleece or cloches can help protect young plants.
Late spring planting (April–May)
Late spring is when most vegetable gardens really begin.
This is the time to plant:
potatoes
beetroot
cabbage
spring onions
You can also begin planting tender vegetables indoors to transplant later.
After the last frost (May–June)
Tender vegetables should be planted outside only after the risk of frost has passed, which is usually around May in much of the UK.
These include:
French beans
cucumbers
If you’re unsure, waiting an extra week is usually safer than planting too early.
Summer sowing (June–July)
You can still plant vegetables in early summer, especially fast-growing crops.
Good options include:
radishes
spinach
spring onions
Succession planting like this helps keep your garden producing for longer.
A simple rule for beginners
If you’re unsure when to plant something, remember:
Most vegetables can be planted safely between March and June in the UK.
Starting within this window gives plants the best chance to grow well.
Over time, you’ll learn the exact timing that works best in your garden.
Gardening gets easier each season
Planting times may feel confusing at first, but they quickly become familiar once you’ve grown vegetables for a season or two.
You don’t need perfect timing to grow successfully — just start, observe, and adjust as you go.