When gardeners think of April planting, they should be thinking about salads and side dishes. By starting a vegetable garden in the backyard, growers will have the opportunity to sow and grow a variety of herbs and veggies this month outside including: 

• Beans
• Beets
• Cabbage
• Carrots
• Eggplant
• Cucumbers
• Melons
• Onions
• Tomatoes
• Zucchini
• Peppers

In addition to vegetables, herbs to grow outside include cilantro and parsley. Some herbs that can grow inside in April include: rosemary, sage, thyme, fennel and basil. 

Tomatoes, peppers and carrots are favorite foods for deer, rabbits and other small critters. Be sure to protect plants this spring with deer fencing and other deer management techniques.