What to Plant Right Now in Georgia (Late March–Early April Guide)

If you’re wondering what to plant in Georgia right now, you’re not alone, this is one of the most important (and exciting) planting windows of the year.

Late March through early April is when your garden truly begins to wake up. But instead of jumping straight into summer crops, this season is all about choosing plants that thrive in cooler temperatures and set the foundation for everything to come.

Best Herbs to Plant Right Now in Georgia

Early spring is prime time for cool-season herbs, especially the ones that struggle once Georgia heat kicks in.

Right now, we’re planting:

  • German Chamomile (annual) & Roman Chamomile (perennial) — perfect for calming teas and early blooms

  • Cilantro & Dill — thrive in cool temps but bolt quickly in heat

  • Parsley, Thyme, Oregano, Marjoram, Tarragon — hardy culinary staples

  • Chives & Fennel — great for both pollinators and the kitchen

  • Mints — vigorous growers (best in containers!)

  • Lavender — a must-have for fragrance, pollinators, and apothecary use

👉 The only herb to hold off on for now? Basil. It loves heat and will struggle if planted too early.

Early Bloomers That Love Cooler Weather

These flowers may look delicate, but they’re some of the toughest (and most important) plants you can grow this time of year:

  • California Poppy — thrives in cool weather and adds vibrant color early

  • Chamomile — doubles as both herb and pollinator-friendly bloom

These early blooms are more than just beautiful — they provide essential food for pollinators emerging from winter and help bring your garden to life.

Native Plants to Start Now (For a Stronger Summer Garden)

If you’re planting with long-term impact in mind, early spring is the perfect time to establish native and medicinal perennials.

Right now is a great time to plant:

  • Aster, Echinacea, Black-Eyed Susans — classic pollinator favorites

  • Hyssop & Anise Hyssop — loved by bees and incredibly fragrant

  • Mountain Mint & Yarrow — powerhouse pollinator plants

  • Motherwort & Nettle — medicinal staples for herbal wellness

  • Wild Indigo — supports native ecosystems and adds structure

  • Elderberry — a beautiful, functional shrub with powerful medicinal benefits

Planting these now gives their root systems time to establish before the stress of summer heat — which means healthier, more resilient plants long-term.

What NOT to Plant Yet

Even though it feels like spring is in full swing, Georgia’s weather can still be unpredictable.

Hold off a little longer on:

  • Basil

  • Tomatoes

  • Peppers

  • Other heat-loving summer crops

Planting too early can lead to slow growth or frost damage — patience here pays off.

Quick Early Spring Planting Tips

  • Take advantage of the cool weather — many of these plants prefer it

  • Give roots time to establish before summer heat

  • Water consistently, especially with fluctuating temps

  • Start simple — a small, thriving garden beats an overwhelmed one

Grow With the Season

Gardening in early spring isn’t about rushing, it’s about timing.

When you plant with the season, you’re not just growing plants… you’re building a garden that works in harmony with nature.

Start Your Spring Garden with Us

We’ve got all of these early spring favorites ready for you.

Come visit us at the Marietta Square Farmers Market this weekend or shop online to start your garden the right way.

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Hardiness Zones vs. Heat Zones: What Georgia Gardeners Need to Know This Spring