Plants and trees are exploding with growth now. Trees are well on their way to being leafed out and several species are in full bloom. Spring ephemeral wildflowers have been blooming in the woods and it’s already time to harvest several garden crops. Plants seem to be a bit ahead of schedule this year, and hopefully it won’t cause problems for orchards and fruit growers since it wouldn’t be northeast Ohio without some late April snow and frost. Key seasonal indicators, garden tasks, and seed starting suggestions are listed here with more information at the link below.
 
Magnolia and cherry trees in bloom. April 14, 2021. Sarah Brower.

Seasonal Indicators

  • Trees/shrubs are blooming: forsythia, cherries, peach, plums, magnolias, pear; apples look ready to bloom very soon 
  • Forest trees are partially leafed out
  • Woodland spring ephemeral wildflowers: ramps, spring beauties, trout lily, cut-leaf toothwort, mayapples
  • Weeds - cool season grasses, dandelions flowering on sunny days, violets, lambs quarters sprouted 
  • Gray tree frogs have started singing
  • Birds arrivals: white-throated sparrow, chipping sparrow, eastern phoebe, osprey
  • Turkey breeding


Garden Tasks 

  • Transplant cold-weather crops started in February and March: artichokes, celery, onions, cabbage, kale, broccoli, cauliflower
  • Continue to harden off frost-sensitive plants
  • Harvest greens, asparagus, brassica flower heads, green onions, chives
  • Early weeding and bed preparation


Seeds to Start Indoors

  • Indoor seed sowing is mostly finished, but it can still be worthwhile to start perennials


Seeds to Direct Sow

  • Peas
  • Brussels sprouts and cabbage
  • Beets
  • Carrots
  • Spinach
  • Cilantro
  • Dill
  • Arugula
  • Radish