Fall is right around the corner, so that means it’s just about time to start planning for another growing season! Not sure what crops to grow in your garden this season?? Check out these 10 crops that thrive in the fall for some inspiration!
- Pumpkins
- Special features: Large, round fruits with various colors and sizes, perfect for autumn decorations and pumpkin pies.
- Blooming period: Summer to fall.
- Nurturing tips: Plant in well-draining soil, provide full sun, and water regularly. Provide support for the vines as they grow.
- Brussels Sprouts
- Special features: Miniature cabbage-like heads that develop along tall stalks, providing a delicious and nutritious fall harvest.
- Blooming period: Late summer to fall.
- Nurturing tips: Plant in well-draining soil, provide full sun, and water consistently. Harvest sprouts when they reach desired size.
- Kale
- Special features: Nutrient-dense dark green leaves with a slightly bitter flavor.
- Blooming period: Late summer to fall.
- Nurturing tips: Plant in fertile soil, provide full sun to partial shade, and water regularly. Harvest outer leaves as needed.
- Radishes
- Special features: Fast-growing root vegetable with crisp and peppery-flavored round or elongated bulbs.
- Blooming period: Late summer to fall.
- Nurturing tips: Plant in well-drained soil, provide full sun, and water consistently. Harvest when roots reach desired size.
- Carrots
- Special features: Sweet and crunchy orange roots with various sizes and shapes.
- Blooming period: Late summer to fall.
- Nurturing tips: Plant in loose soil free of stones, provide full sun, and water evenly. Thin seedlings to ensure proper spacing.
- Spinach
- Special features: Tender, dark green leaves packed with vitamins and minerals.
- Blooming period: Late summer to fall.
- Nurturing tips: Plant in fertile soil, provide partial shade to full sun, and water regularly. Harvest outer leaves or the whole plant.
- Swiss Chard
- Special features: Colorful stems in shades of red, yellow, or white, with large, tender leaves.
- Blooming period: Late summer to fall.
- Nurturing tips: Plant in well-drained soil, provide partial shade to full sun, and water regularly. Harvest outer leaves for continuous growth.
- Broccoli
- Special features: Dense clusters of edible flower buds with a mild and slightly bitter taste.
- Blooming period: Late summer to fall.
- Nurturing tips: Plant in fertile soil, provide full sun, and water consistently. Harvest when the central head is tight and before it starts to flower.
- Beets
- Special features: Earthy and sweet-flavored roots with vibrant colors ranging from red to golden.
- Blooming period: Late summer to fall.
- Nurturing tips: Plant in loose and well-drained soil, provide full sun, and water evenly. Harvest when roots reach desired size.
- Cabbage
- Special features: Compact heads with smooth or crinkled leaves, available in green, red, or savoy varieties.
- Blooming period: Late summer to fall.
- Nurturing tips: Plant in fertile soil, provide full sun, and water regularly. Harvest when heads are firm and dense.
Extra tips for maintaining a fall garden:
- Monitor and control pests, such as aphids or caterpillars, with organic methods like neem oil or handpicking.
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
- Protect cool-season crops from early frosts by covering them with row covers or cloths.
- Keep an eye on soil moisture levels, as fall rains can vary. Water deeply and less frequently to promote strong root growth.
- Harvest crops regularly to encourage continuous production and prevent overripening or bolting.
Remember to select varieties suitable for your specific gardening zone and pay attention to recommended planting and spacing guidelines for optimal growth and yield. Happy growing!