Top 10 Veggies to Rock Your Fall Garden

Autumn's arrived my fellow horticulturalists, and that means it's time to shift gears in the garden. As summer's bounty winds down, fall offers a host of seasonal treasures just waiting to be harvested. Forget about your tomatoes and other summer crops, let's dive into my top 10 recommended veggies for the cooler months -  sure to provide you with an abundance of fresh garden produce well into winter.

Kale

This leafy green is the superstar crop for fall. Kale actually prefers to grow in cooler temperatures, and develops a more intense flavor in colder climates. Choose a variety known for its cold tolerance, and start planting to enjoy it all the way through the first frost!

Cabbage

Like brussels sprouts, cabbage naturally thrives in cooler temperatures. Choose varieties that are specifically bred for fall, and start from seed directly in the ground up to eight weeks before the first frost. Choose a spot with full sun, well-drained soil, and water consistently for best results. 

Spinach

Another fall seasonal favorite, spinach may grow quickly in the summer heat, but fall is when it can truly shine. Sow spinach seeds every few weeks to keep yourself surrounded by baby spinach all season long. Just ensure you have plenty of well-drained soil for optimal growth. 

Broccoli 

Broccoli naturally thrives in the cooler part of the year, just like its close relative the cauliflower. Choose a fast-growing variety to grow from fall, and harvest the heads when the florets are dark green. Keep the soil consistently moist for ideal growth conditions. 

Brussels Sprouts 

These little cabbages are perfect for fall planting. Start from seed indoors ideally, or buy transplants early as they do need a long growing season. Remember to give them lots of space to mature, as overcrowding might stunt their growth and result in smaller plants. 

Radishes

These fast-growing vegetables are perfect for fall and easy to cultivate. Sow seeds directly in the ground up to eight weeks before the first fall frost. Grow them in well-drained soil and full sun. Radishes typically reach their desired size between three to four weeks, and can be harvested then. 

 

 

Cauliflower

This delicious white crop is a great addition to your fall garden. Choose a quick-maturing variety and plant in well-drained soil with plenty of sun. Remember to protect the developing heads from direct sunlight with leaves or a shade cloth.

Beets

Beets are a versatile crop that grows well in the colder months. Plant them from seed in well-drained soil, and keep them sufficiently watered. Once harvested, you can eat them roasted, or raw in garden salads. Their greens are edible and taste wonderful too! 

 

Lettuce

Most varieties of lettuce are cold-tolerant and can withstand light frosts. This seasonal crop is ideal for fall gardening. Sow seeds directly in the ground up to six weeks before the first fall frost. Choose an area with partial shade and well-drained soil to plant your lettuce, keeping your soil consistently moist.

Rutabagas

Finally, these root vegetables are a nutritious addition to any autumn garden. They need a long growing period, so start planting early from seed. Be sure to harvest them before the ground freezes over. 

Honorable Mention - Carrots

Carrots are also a delightful choice for fall gardening, and they can be left in the ground until ready to harvest. Colder climates actually make them crunchier and more tasty.

Tip: Sow carrot seeds directly into loose soil. Spread them out a bit to prevent overcrowding, as they need plenty of space to grow long and well. 

Some Fall Gardening Tips

As we enter autumn officially, here are a few tips for transitioning your gardening. Firstly, good soil is still your foundation to success! Amend your soil with compost to improve drainage. Also, as chilly weather sets in, be prepared for unexpected frosts with row covers or other frost protection methods.

While you won't need to water as frequently as in the summer, hydration is still important, so water consistently especially for newly planted seedlings. Finally, keep an eye out for pests and take action to protect your plants early. Happy fall gardening y’all!