The Barry County Community Garden officially opened for the 2026 growing season on March 15. 

We have welcomed both returning gardeners and new participants eager to grow fresh, local food for themselves and the community. Located at 10160 Farm Road 2160 in Cassville, the garden continues its mission of providing education, access to healthy produce and a shared space where neighbors can work side by side.

March and April mark the true beginning of the gardening season in southwest Missouri’s Zone 6b/7a, and excitement is already building. Garden organizers encourage anyone interested — whether experienced or brand new — to attend and get involved. Monthly meetings are the first Monday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at Harvick Farms on Hwy 76 just outside of Cassville. Official workdays began April 1. 

Garden organizers are at the garden Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9-11 a.m. Gardeners with personal beds are welcome to tend their gardens any day during daylight hours. 

With spring underway, now is the perfect time to get seeds in the ground and establish strong habits for a productive season. 

Early spring offers ideal conditions for cool-season crops. These plants can tolerate light frost and thrive in the milder temperatures of April. Gardeners can plant vegetables such as lettuce, spinach, kale, radishes, carrots, beets and peas directly into the soil. Onions — whether sets or transplants — can also go in the ground this month, along with potatoes. Broccoli and cabbage transplants are excellent additions as well. 

While it may be tempting to plant warm-season crops like tomatoes, peppers and squash, these should be held back until after the danger of frost has passed. However, seeds can be started indoors for a jump start on the season.

April is one of the most important months for setting the tone of the entire gardening season. Preparation and consistency now will pay off in the months ahead. Soil preparation is essential. Gardeners should loosen the soil, remove weeds and mix in compost or organic matter to improve fertility and drainage. Healthy soil is the foundation of a successful garden. 

Cool-season crops should be planted in succession every couple of weeks to ensure a steady harvest rather than one overwhelming yield all at once. Watering becomes important as spring rains can be inconsistent. Seeds and young plants need consistent moisture to germinate and establish strong roots. 

Weed control should also begin early. Small weeds are much easier to manage than established ones. Staying ahead of them reduces competition for nutrients and water. 

Garden planning and labeling helps keep everything organized. Knowing what was planted and when makes it easier to manage harvests and replanting later in the season.

In Barry County, and much of southwest Missouri, the average last frost date falls around April 20. However, the weather can be unpredictable. Late frosts are still possible even after that date. Because of this, gardeners should stay vigilant throughout April, especially when planting tender crops or early transplants. Preparation is key to protecting young plants from unexpected cold snaps. 

Gardeners can take several simple steps to reduce risk. Covering plants is one of the most effective methods. Lightweight materials such as row covers, old sheets, or frost cloth can be placed over plants overnight to trap heat. It’s important to remove coverings during the day so plants can receive sunlight and avoid overheating. Watering the soil before a frost can also help. Moist soil retains heat better than dry soil, offering a small but meaningful buffer against cold temperatures. 

Mulching around plants provides insulation and helps regulate soil temperature. Straw, leaves, or grass clippings can be used effectively. For transplants or sensitive plants, using containers or movable trays allows gardeners to bring them indoors or into a sheltered space during cold nights.

The opening of the Barry County Community Garden is more than just the start of planting — it’s the beginning of another season of learning, sharing, and giving back. Much of the produce grown in the garden is donated locally, helping support families in need.

As spring comes, the message is simple: grab your gloves, bring your seeds and join in. If you have questions, you can contact Melissa Hamilton at 417-592-0432 or follow the Facebook page. 

A new growing season is here, and the Barry County Community Garden is ready to grow.

Melissa Hamilton is a dedicated volunteer with the Barry County Community Garden and a Barry County Master Gardener. She may be reached at [email protected].