Spring in Southern Alberta: What Will You Grow This Season?

Spring has finally arrived in Southern Alberta, and with it comes the promise of renewal, growth, and the vibrant colours of nature waking up. 

Picture this: a cluster of cheerful marigolds, their fiery orange petals glowing like little suns, nestled beside the cool purple hues of pansies, as seen in the image. It’s a snapshot of what’s possible when you dig into the earth and let your garden bloom. 

As the days grow longer and the frost retreats, it’s the perfect time to ask yourself—what do you want to grow this spring? Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, Southern Alberta’s unique climate offers a canvas for both beauty and bounty. 

Let’s explore some easy-to-grow flowers and veggies, and why gardening is a gift for your mind, body, and pantry.

Easy Blooms and Veggies for Southern Alberta

Southern Alberta’s growing season can be a bit of a wild card—think short summers, cool nights, and the occasional late frost. But don’t let that deter you! There are plenty of hardy flowers and vegetables that thrive here, even for beginners.

 

Flowers to Brighten Your Days:

• Marigolds: Those vibrant orange beauties in the photo aren’t just eye candy—they’re tough as nails. Marigolds love full sun, handle drought like champs, and bloom from spring through fall. Plus, they’re natural pest-repellents, keeping bugs away from your other plants. Plant them along borders or in pots for a pop of colour that lasts.
• Pansies: The purple stunners mingling with the marigolds are pansies, and they’re perfect for Southern Alberta’s cooler spring temps. They can even survive a light frost, making them a go-to for early planting. Pansies come in a rainbow of colours and love a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade. They’re low-maintenance and great for adding charm to any garden bed or container.

Veggies for Your Table:

• Peas: If you’re looking to grow something edible, peas are a fantastic choice. They love the cool spring weather and can be planted as soon as the soil thaws (around late April in Southern Alberta). Go for a variety like ‘Sugar Snap’—they’re sweet, crunchy, and you can eat the whole pod. Peas are also climbers, so give them a trellis or some stakes to grow on.
• Radishes: These little root veggies are practically foolproof. They’re ready to harvest in as little as 3-4 weeks, making them a quick win for impatient gardeners. Radishes like well-drained soil and a sunny spot, and they add a peppery crunch to your salads. Try the ‘Cherry Belle’ variety for a classic red radish that’s as pretty as it is tasty.

The Benefits of Gardening: Mind, Body, and Pantry

Gardening isn’t just about pretty flowers or fresh veggies—it’s a whole-body experience that nourishes you in more ways than one.

 

For Your Mind: There’s something deeply calming about sinking your hands into the soil, feeling the sun on your back, and watching your plants grow. Studies have shown that gardening can reduce stress, lower cortisol levels, and even boost mood—some folks call it “grounding” for a reason. In a place like Southern Alberta, where the wind can howl and the winters feel endless, spring gardening is a reminder of hope and renewal. Tending to your marigolds or harvesting your first peas can be a quiet meditation, a way to unplug from the noise of the world (or that pile-driving racket from the new subdivision!).

 

For Your Body: Gardening is sneaky exercise—bending, digging, and hauling bags of soil get your heart pumping and muscles working. It’s a low-impact way to stay active, improve flexibility, and soak up some vitamin D from the sun (just don’t forget the sunscreen). Plus, growing your own food means you’re more likely to eat fresh, nutrient-packed veggies like those peas and radishes, giving your body the good stuff it craves.

 

For Your Pantry: There’s nothing quite like the taste of homegrown food. A handful of snap peas straight off the vine or a radish pulled from the earth has a flavour you can’t find in a store. Growing your own veggies can also save you a few bucks at the grocery store, especially if you preserve your harvest—think pickled radishes or frozen peas for winter soups. And let’s not forget the flowers: marigolds are edible too, adding a peppery zing to salads or a garnish for your homemade pizza.

 

Get Growing This Spring

So, what will you plant this season? Maybe you’ll start with a few pots of marigolds and pansies to brighten your yard, or perhaps you’ll carve out a small veggie patch for peas and radishes. Whatever you choose, gardening is a chance to connect with the land, nurture your well-being, and savour the fruits (and flowers) of your labour. Grab a trowel, pick a sunny spot, and let spring work its magic. What’s on your gardening list this year—any blooms or veggies you’re dreaming of? Share your plans, and let’s grow together under Alberta’s big sky!