What to plant early?

[gardeningwithe]

As a general rule what are some good plants to start early? Usually I plant most everything in April, (except peas the one time I planted them). I'm thinking that I am missing out on some prime growing time for the more cool weather crops. So any suggestions would be helpful. I am in Zone 6.

[rainbowgardener]

root crops direct seeded as soon as the ground can be worked, e.g carrots, turnips, beets, etc

brassicas, e.g. broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage

leafy greens, e.g. lettuce, spinach, swiss chard, kale

[gardeningwithe]

Thank you! I was thinking about root crops, but wasn't sure about the others.

[applestar]

Yep. Peas and favas around mid- to late-March I think. Cilantro and chervil should be seeded early too.
Potatoes go in last week of a March to first week of April for me. (About a month before last average frost when forsythias are in bloom)... Did you see this thread?

[gardeningwithe]

No, I hadn't but that sure helps A LOT thanks! I'm hoping to get either this coming weekend or the next to last weekend of the month. Just trying to get a lil organized for it. THANKS everyone!

[jal_ut]

Peas, spinach, parsnips, carrots, lettuce, cabbage, broccoli, kale, kohlrabi, mustard, cauliflower, collards, onions, radish, turnip.

Chard, beets and potatoes just a bit later.