7 Cold-Hardy Veggies to Plant NOW in Central Oregon
Spring in Central Oregon can be tricky. One day it’s sunny and 65°, the next night there’s frost on your windshield. But don’t let that stop you from digging into garden season! If you’re gardening in Zone 5, there are plenty of cold-loving crops that thrive in chilly temps—and some even taste better for it.
Here are 7 cold-hardy veggies that are perfect for planting right now:
Broccoli
This cool-season superstar actually prefers brisk weather. In fact, a light frost can bring out its natural sweetness. Start with transplants or seeds and give it plenty of sun.
Kale
Kale is practically made for Central Oregon springs. It's incredibly frost-tolerant, quick to grow, and keeps producing even through unpredictable weather. A must for early garden wins!
Carrots
Direct sow carrot seeds into your garden beds now. Just make sure to cover them with a frost blanket to help with germination while the soil’s still cold. Bonus: cold soil = sweeter carrots.
Onion Sets
Tough and reliable, onion sets are little powerhouses. Plant them early for a head start on summer harvests. They don’t mind the chill and will establish quickly in the warming soil.
Spinach
This leafy green loves cool weather and grows like a champ in early spring. Harvest it young for tender salads, or let it go longer for hearty cooking greens.
Seed Potatoes
Potatoes are surprisingly frost-hardy and easy to grow. Plant them now and you’ll be digging up delicious spuds in early summer. Just be sure to mound soil around the plants as they grow.
Asparagus Crowns
Asparagus takes a little patience, but it’s absolutely worth it. Plant crowns in early spring and you’ll enjoy fresh, homegrown spears for years to come. Think of it as a long-term love story with your garden.
Pro Tip: Keep a frost cloth or row cover handy to protect young plants from sudden cold snaps. It’s an easy way to give your crops a cozy layer when the temperatures drop unexpectedly.
Ready to plant?
Come visit us for seed potatoes, organic onion sets, asparagus crowns. hardy starts, seeds and all the frost cloth you’ll need this spring. Let’s get growing, Central Oregon!