If you’re wondering what plants you can plant right now on Long Island, you’re not alone. As early spring arrives, many gardeners are ready to get started. The good news is that spring planting on Long Island can begin now—as long as you choose cold-hardy plants that can handle cool temperatures and light frost.
Why Early Spring Planting Works on Long Island
Knowing what plants to plant right now on Long Island is important because spring weather can still be unpredictable.
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Cool daytime temperatures
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Cold nights
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Risk of frost
That’s why early spring planting on Long Island should focus on plants that thrive in cooler conditions.
10 Plants to Plant Right Now on Long Island
Here are 10 cold-hardy plants that are perfect for early spring planting on Long Island:
1. Lettuce: Lettuce grows quickly in cool weather and is ideal for early planting.
2. Spinach: Spinach thrives in cold temperatures and is one of the best vegetables to plant right now.
3. Kale: Kale is extremely hardy and can tolerate frost, making it perfect for early spring planting.
4. Peas: Peas should be planted early in the season and grow well in cool soil.
5. Radishes: Radishes are fast-growing and great for early spring planting on Long Island.
6. Broccoli: Broccoli prefers cooler temperatures and establishes well in early spring.
7. Cabbage: Cabbage is a cold-hardy crop that performs best before summer heat.
8. Pansies: Pansies are one of the most popular flowers to plant right now on Long Island because they tolerate cold weather.
9. Hellebores: Lenten roses bloom in late winter and early spring, adding beautiful color when little else is flowering.
10. Heather: Heather is a hardy evergreen that provides texture and color in early spring landscapes.
Hellebore, also known as Lenten Rose
Flowering heather
Why These Plants Are Ideal for Spring Planting on Long Island
These plants are ideal because they:
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Tolerate cold temperatures
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Grow well in cool soil
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Can handle light frost
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Establish strong roots early
Choosing the right plants ensures success when deciding what to plant right now on Long Island.
What NOT to Plant Right Now on Long Island
Even if it feels like spring, it’s still too early for these warm-weather plants.
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Basil
- Impatiens
- Tender annuals
Waiting ensures better growth and prevents damage.
Tips for Planting in Cool Weather
To get the most out of spring planting on Long Island, follow these tips:
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Monitor weather conditions
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Protect plants from frost
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Use well-draining soil
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Add compost to improve soil health
FAQ: What to Plant Right Now on Long Island
What plants can you plant right now on Long Island?
Cold-hardy vegetables like lettuce, spinach, kale, and flowers like pansies and hellebores can be planted now.
Is it too early to plant on Long Island?
No—early spring is a great time to plant cold-tolerant plants.
When is it safe to plant everything on Long Island?
Many plants can be safely planted after the last frost in mid-to-late April. If in doubt, wait to plant unitl after Mother’s Day.
Get Started with Spring Planting
If you’re wondering what to plant right now on Long Island, the answer is simple: start with cold-hardy plants. Early spring is a great time to begin planting and get ahead of the growing season.
Visit Hicks Nurseries for everything you need for spring planting on Long Island, including:
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Cold-hardy plants
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Soil and compost
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Gardening tools
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Expert advice
Start planting today and enjoy a thriving spring garden.