Top 10 Plants to Grow in a Central Oklahoma Spring Garden

Spring in Central Oklahoma is a gardener's dream—mild temperatures, warming soil, and enough rainfall to jumpstart a lush, productive garden. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or a newbie with a trowel, these 10 plants are ideal for thriving in Oklahoma’s unique mix of clay soils, variable weather, and abundant sunshine.

1. Tomatoes

A must-have for Oklahoma gardeners. Choose heat-tolerant varieties like Celebrity, Better Boy, or heirlooms like Cherokee Purple. Start seeds indoors or buy transplants and set them out after the last frost (usually mid-April).

2. Peppers (Bell & Hot)

Peppers love Oklahoma heat. From sweet bells to spicy jalapeños, plant them once nights consistently stay above 55°F. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil.

3. Okra

Okra practically lives for Oklahoma summers. Sow directly into the ground once soil temperatures are consistently above 65°F. Varieties like Clemson Spineless do particularly well.

4. Green Beans

Quick to mature and easy to grow, green beans—both bush and pole varieties—should be sown directly after the last frost. They’re productive and perfect for succession planting.

5. Zinnias

For a splash of color and pollinator power, plant zinnias. They thrive in the heat, are drought tolerant, and bloom all season long. Plus, they’re practically foolproof.

6. Sunflowers

Iconic and native-friendly, sunflowers are not only beautiful but also support pollinators and birds. Plant seeds directly in full sun for best results.

7. Basil

This warm-weather herb loves the Oklahoma sun and adds amazing flavor to dishes. Pair it with your tomatoes in the garden for a delicious combo (and to deter pests).

8. Cucumbers

Fast-growing and perfect for trellising, cucumbers love warmth and consistent moisture. Varieties like Marketmore 76 and Lemon Cucumber perform well in our region.

9. Coneflowers (Echinacea)

These native perennials are drought-tolerant, bloom beautifully in the heat, and attract bees and butterflies. Once established, they’ll come back year after year.

10. Black-eyed Susans

Another hardy Oklahoma favorite, these bright golden perennials are low maintenance, heat tolerant, and bring native charm to flower beds and borders.

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Bonus Tips:

• Timing is everything: Watch your last frost date (usually around April 15) before planting sensitive crops.
• Mulch up: Oklahoma winds and sun can dry soil fast. Mulch helps retain moisture and control weeds.
• Choose native when possible: Native plants tend to be more drought-resistant and pollinator-friendly.

Whether you’re growing for your table or for the beauty of blooms, these 10 picks are perfect for a vibrant and resilient Central Oklahoma garden.