When to Work Soil in Toronto

(Question)

What is a typical timeframe for when the soil can start being worked in the spring? I live in Toronto near the water, and have a combination of raised beds and natural beds.
I am wondering when I should plan to seed my peas, beans, etc.
Thank you!

(Answer)

Thank you for contacting Toronto Master Gardeners.

Soil is workable when it’s dry enough to avoid compaction.

You’re right, timing is very important. You should base all of your plant start dates by your last frost date. Here you can find a planting calendar for the area of Toronto. You can change the area on their website as well.

If you are using seedlings, most should be planted just after the last spring frost, usually around the May long weekend.

The outdoor planting of seeds can be done over a much longer period:

  • 5 – 7 weeks before the last frost – plant green pea seeds
  • 2 – 3 weeks before – plant lettuce seeds
  • 1 – 2 weeks before – plant carrot and radish seeds
  • Just after the last frost – plant green bean and zucchini seeds
  • 1 – 2 weeks after – plant cucumber seeds

Here are a few links to vegetable gardening:

Good luck !