Best Vegetables to Plant in a Spring and Summer Garden in South Carolina

As spring arrives and temperatures begin to rise, it’s the perfect time for gardeners across South Carolina to start planning and planting their spring and summer vegetable gardens. Thanks to the Palmetto State’s long growing season and warm climate, gardeners can enjoy a wide variety of fresh, homegrown produce from late spring through early fall.

Whether you’re a first-time gardener or a seasoned green thumb, here are some of the best vegetables to plant in a South Carolina garden during the spring and summer months:

1. Tomatoes

A Southern garden staple, tomatoes thrive in South Carolina’s warm, sunny weather. Start seeds indoors in late winter or purchase young plants for transplanting in early spring after the last frost. Popular varieties for South Carolina include ‘Better Boy,’ ‘Celebrity,’ and ‘Roma.’

2. Peppers

From sweet bell peppers to hot jalapeños, peppers love heat and sunshine. They’re easy to grow in containers or raised beds and do well when planted in late spring. Make sure to provide plenty of space between plants for airflow.

3. Cucumbers

Fast-growing and productive, cucumbers do especially well in South Carolina’s summer heat. Trellising helps keep fruits off the ground and reduces disease risk. Plant them after the soil warms up in late spring.

4. Squash and Zucchini

Both summer squash and zucchini are high-yield vegetables perfect for beginners. They grow best when planted directly in the ground in mid to late spring. Watch out for squash bugs and treat early if needed.

5. Okra

A true heat-loving Southern favorite, okra thrives in full sun and tolerates drought well. Sow seeds directly into warm soil after the danger of frost has passed. ‘Clemson Spineless’ is a popular variety for home gardens.

6. Green Beans

Both bush and pole beans grow well in South Carolina. Plant seeds directly into the garden in mid-spring. Bush varieties mature faster, while pole beans require trellising but produce longer.

7. Corn

Sweet corn is a rewarding crop for larger gardens with plenty of sun. Plant corn in blocks rather than rows to improve pollination. It’s best planted in late April to early May.

8. Eggplant

Eggplant loves warm weather and rich soil. Transplant seedlings into the garden once nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 60°F. ‘Black Beauty’ and ‘Ichiban’ are commonly grown in the South.

9. Sweet Potatoes

These root vegetables are planted from slips (sprouted tubers) in late spring. They need a long, hot growing season, making them a perfect fit for South Carolina’s climate.

Tips for a Successful Garden:

• Soil Prep: Most vegetables prefer well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. Consider adding compost or organic matter before planting.

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot, dry spells.

• Sunlight: Most vegetables require 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

• Mulch: Applying mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Spring is the time to dig in and start planting. With proper care and attention, your South Carolina garden can produce an abundant harvest all summer long.