Utah State University Extension would like to share some important information with community members about spring planting. Agriculture Assistant Professor, Steve Price was able to visit over the telephone with Castle Country Radio Station to share some spring planting pointers.

Many residents who do start spring planting may have already started sowing seeds indoors, but are you wondering when to move them outdoors? “So, a lot of that really depends on the temperature so whether you are transplanting or direct seeding its really dependent on soil temperature and air temperatures,” stated Price. “I kind of call it the plant early, plant often, there’s kind of a game to try to get them outside but if you go way too early you can actually depress the growth of those plants enough that there not going to grow that terribly well.” Residents need to keep in mind that soil temperatures change slower than air temperatures so it’s important to check the soil before transplanting or seeding outdoors. The soil temp can be checked with a simple meat thermometer.

Most tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and melons will start inside very well and will have to be transplanted outdoors when temperatures warm up. “Their kind of optimal temperature range is really between 70 degrees to 85 degrees somewhere in there,” stated Price. Low soil temperatures can stunt plant growth and prevent root development. When it comes to cooler season crops, which are direct seeding into the ground, is when soil temperatures are of more importance. Their optimal temperatures to plant are low end 50 degrees to 60 degrees. It’s also a good idea to plant in the afternoon when the soil has warmed up a bit from the sun.

Utah State University Extension offers guides for growing and maintaining yard and garden on their website so be sure to visit them at https://extension.usu.edu/yardandgarden/