Dig Into Spring: Tips for a Successful Gardening Season

Know Your USDA Zone – Most of Oklahoma falls within USDA Zones 6b–8a, so check your local zone before selecting plants to ensure proper hardiness.

Watch the Last Frost Date – In areas like Tulsa, the average last frost is the end of March, but it’s recommended to hold off on planting warm-weather vegetables and annuals until mid-April.

Prepare Soil Early – Oklahoma soils are often clay-heavy or sandy. Work in compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and nutrient content.

Test Your Soil – Contact the Oklahoma State University Extension for soil testing services to determine pH and nutrient needs.

Choose Heat-Tolerant Varieties – Oklahoma summers get hot quickly. Select varieties labeled heat- or drought-tolerant, especially for tomatoes, peppers, and herbs.

Plan for Wind Protection – Spring winds can damage young plants. Use row covers, windbreaks, or plant near fences for protection.

Water Deeply, Not Frequently – Encourage deep root growth by watering thoroughly but less often. Early morning watering reduces disease risk.

Mulch Generously – Apply 2–3 inches of mulch to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weeds.

Direct Sow Cool-Season Crops Early – Lettuce, spinach, carrots, peas, and radishes can handle cooler temperatures and should be planted before the heat sets in.

Wait on Warm-Season Crops – Tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, and peppers should go in the ground only after soil temperatures consistently reach 60°F+.

Plant Native and Pollinator-Friendly Plants – Incorporate Oklahoma native wildflowers to support bees and butterflies and reduce maintenance needs. Native wildflowers include; Black-eyed Susans, Purple Coneflowers, Sunflowers, and more!

Monitor for Pests Early – Keep an eye out for aphids, cutworms, and squash bugs as temperatures rise. Early intervention prevents major infestations.

Harden Off Seedlings – Gradually expose indoor-grown seedlings to outdoor conditions over 7–10 days before transplanting.

Rotate Crops – Avoid planting the same crop family in the same spot each year to reduce soil-borne diseases and nutrient depletion.

After all your hard work, make sure your creations get the spotlight they deserve at the 2026 Tulsa State Fair Open Competitive Exhibits! Submit your Canned and Baked Goods starting August 1st - September 9th. For more information, see our 2026 Competitive Exhibits Handbook. Remember, a successful gardening season comes way before your harvest. With proper preparation like soil sampling, crop rotation, and smart planting research, your spring garden can thrive and flourish!