April · Mid-spring
What to sow in April in Tokyo
42 crops are in their window this month in Tokyo — timed to your local frost dates.
Last frost≈ 8 Mar
First frost≈ 18 Dec
Frost-free days261 days
April averages10°–20°C
Vegetables
31 in season
Amaranth Greens
Direct sow · pinch tips often for a steady flush of tender greens
Artichoke
Start indoors · seedlings need a cold snap to set buds in year one
Arugula
Direct sow · sow every 2-3 weeks for a steady peppery harvest
Asparagus
Plant crowns · resist harvesting until the second or third spring
Beets
Direct sow · soak seed clusters overnight to speed germination
Herbs
9 in season
Basil
Start indoors · loves heat, don't rush it outside before frost
Cilantro
Direct sow · bolts fast in heat, sow small batches often
Dill
Direct sow · taproot resents transplanting, sow direct
Epazote
Direct sow · cut flower heads early or it self-seeds everywhere
Fenugreek (Methi)
Direct sow · ready to cut in under a month; sow again for more
Fruit
2 in season
Blueberries
Plant bushes · needs acidic soil and a second variety to pollinate
Ground Cherries
Transplant seedlings · let ripe fruit drop; husks turn tan and papery