Five Spring Crops to Plant Earlier Than You Think - Ep. 286

Five Spring Crops to Plant Earlier Than You Think - Ep. 286

Author: Karin Velez February 3, 2026 Duration: 37:03
If you’ve ever planted a big patch of arugula at the same time you planted the rest of the spring garden, only to watch it shoot up a flower stalk a few weeks later, you’ve already met this week’s topic: heat-sensitive crops.Heat-sensitive doesn’t always mean a plant can’t survive warm weather. It usually means warm temperatures and lengthening days change the plant’s priorities. Instead of producing the leaves, heads, or tubers we want to harvest, the plant pivots toward flowering and seed production or it keeps growing, but quality drops.So, today on Just Grow Something we’re talking about the five crops you should plant earlier than you think to avoid this change. And I’m also including an herb that can bolt as fast as you blink. Let’s dig in.References and Resources:Ep. 133 - Growing Onions: https://justgrowsomethingpodcast.com/episode/ep-133-growing-onionsSoil Temperature Maps: https://www.greencastonline.com/tools/soil-temperaturePlan Like a Pro Garden Planning Course: https://justgrowsomething.thinkific.com/courses/plan-like-a-proJust Grow Something: https://justgrowsomething.comJust Grow Something Merch and Downloads: https://justgrowsomething.com/shopJust Grow Something Gardening Friends Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/18YgHveF5P/ Check out how you can become a patron on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JustGrowSomethingBonus content for supporters of the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/justgrowsomethingAmazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/justgrowsomething

Ever find yourself staring at a seed packet or a struggling tomato plant, wondering what it really needs to thrive? Just Grow Something | Evidence-Based Home Gardening digs into those questions, moving beyond folklore and guesswork. Host Karin Velez believes that understanding the science behind gardening-the "why" as much as the "how"-empowers you to become a more confident and successful grower. Each episode feels like a conversation with a knowledgeable friend, one who sifts through research and practical experience to offer clear, actionable advice. You’ll hear detailed discussions on everything from soil health and specific plant varieties to managing pests and planning your garden layout effectively. This podcast is designed for anyone with a patch of dirt or a few containers, whether you’ve been cultivating for decades or are just planting your first herb. Karin’s approach demystifies the process of growing your own food, making it accessible and deeply rewarding. The ultimate aim is simple but profound: to equip you with the reliable knowledge needed to harvest something delicious from your own space, season after season. Tune in for a grounded, thoughtful take on home gardening that celebrates both the triumphs and the learning moments inherent in getting your hands dirty.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

Just Grow Something | Evidence-Based Home Gardening
Podcast Episodes
Heat Stress vs Drought Stress in the Vegetable Garden - Ep. 308 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:04
If your first thought, every single time you see wilting in your garden during a heat wave is “I need to water right now,” hold on before you grab that hose. Because that dramatic afternoon collapse you're looking at lik…
How to Time Your Fall Brassicas - Ep. 307 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 25:53
Most home gardeners don't realize fall brassica production starts in late June and early July. This episode breaks down the timing for broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts, including how to calculate seed…
How to Manage Squash Vine Borer - Ep. 304 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:00
Every year, gardeners across the country watch their squash plants collapse overnight and have absolutely no idea why until it’s too late. The culprit is the squash vine borer, and it is one of the most misunderstood pes…
Topping Peppers: What does the science say, yay or nay? - Ep. 299 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:07
Today we’re talking about the science of why topping pepper plants works (when it works). We’re laying out the honest pros and cons with your climate and your pepper variety in mind. And if you decide it’s right for your…