How to Create a Succession Planting Schedule

mediumGardening2-4 hours8 steps

Tools Needed

Garden Planner/Calendar — Physical or digital tracking tool

Seed Packets — For reference of days to maturity

Graph Paper — For mapping bed layouts(1 pack)

Markers/Colored Pencils — To differentiate crop types(1 set)

List all crops you intend to grow for the season.

Tip: Group them by family to avoid planting the same crop in the same spot twice.

Consult seed packets to determine 'Days to Maturity' for each variety.

Tip: This determines the gap between planting and harvest.

Map out your primary planting dates based on your local last frost date.

Tip: Establish your baseline for the first wave of crops.

Calculate the interval for subsequent plantings based on the desired harvest gap.

Tip: For continuous harvests, plant a new batch every 2-3 weeks.

Coordinate planting dates so that the second crop enters the soil as the first crop is harvested.

Tip: This maximizes space and prevents soil from remaining bare.

Create a visual calendar marking sowing dates, transplant dates, and estimated harvest dates.

Tip: Use different colors for different plant families.

Adjust the schedule based on observed growth rates and weather patterns.

Tip: If a crop matures faster than expected, move the next planting date up.

Review the schedule weekly to prepare seed trays or seedlings in advance.

Tip: Starting seeds indoors can help hit tight succession windows.

Ensure you account for the time needed to clear and prep the soil between different crop rotations.