Cool-Weather Crops and Hot Reasons to Grow Your Own


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It’s time to start planting! The Organic Gardener Jeanne Nolan returns to WTTW's organic garden to plant cool-season crops selected by viewers and tackle an early flush of weeds.


Get more tips for planting spring crops, such as Paris market carrots, here.

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We’ll also look at warm-season crops for viewers to vote on, talk about why growing your own food is a growing movement, and where to find the best plants for your garden.

Warm-Weather Crops

You spoke your mind about greens, carrots and cauliflower. Now it's time to help us pick more crops for our organic garden!

It may not feel like it, but it’s time to start thinking about which warm-weather crops. Nolan has selected a few of her favorites, but we still need help selecting the remainder, based on her recommendations. Cast your votes below. Polls are open until noon on May 13.

Jump to Beans | Cucumbers | Eggplant | Peppers | Corn | Tomatoes | Herbs

Beans 


Cucumbers: Nolan’s Pick

Mexican Sour Gherkin

When to plant: May 15-July 15

How to plant: Plant from seed or transplant seedling



Eggplant


Peppers: Nolan’s Pick

Habanero/Serrano Pepper

When to plant: May 15-July 15

How to plant: Transplant seedling



Corn: Nolan's Pick

Silver Queen Corn

When to plant: May 15-July 15

How to plant: Plant from seed


Tomatoes


Herb's: Nolan's Picks

Cilantro

When to plant: May 15-July 15

How to plant: Plant from seed


Parsley

When to plant: May 15-July 15

How to plant: Transplant seedling


Sorrel

When to plant: May 15-July 15

How to plant: Plant from seed or transplant seedling


Rosemary

When to plant: May 15-July 15

How to plant: Transplant seedling


Thyme

When to plant: May 15-July 15

How to plant: Transplant seedling



Related 'Chicago Tonight' content

WTTW Organic Garden Springs Back to Life

April 7: Winter’s (mostly) behind us and we’re ready to grow! It might not quite feel like it yet, but spring is here and it’s time to head back to the garden. The Organic Gardener Jeanne Nolan joins us to prepare WTTW’s organic garden for a fruitful growing season.


How to Start a Garden

Not sure how to start your garden? With help from Jeanne Nolan and her team, we will guide you through the process from selecting a site for your garden to staking crops and everything in between.


Need Garden Help?

Ask Jeanne Nolan and The Organic Gardener crew.


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View all sponsors

Thanks to our sponsors:

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