Understanding Fall Planting

As summer draws to a close, it's the ideal moment to consider which vegetables to cultivate this fall for a fruitful spring harvest.

The warmth of the soil during fall allows roots to strengthen before winter arrives. Certain vegetables, such as turnips, carrots, asparagus, and collard greens, can either grow or remain dormant through winter, ultimately producing a rich yield come spring. It’s wise to focus on vegetables that serve as side dishes, pickles, or snacks. Below are ten vegetables that are particularly beneficial to plant this fall for a prosperous spring harvest.

1. Asparagus

   Asparagus is a slow-growing yet resilient perennial that requires minimal care. This vegetable begins to develop roots when soil temperatures hit 40°F, with shoots reaching 5–7 inches by the third year. It thrives in sandy or loamy soil and needs full sunlight. Complete maturity takes about 2 to 3 years.

2. Beets

   Beets are perfect for autumn or winter planting, with a spring harvest in mind. These plants are shallow-rooted and benefit from mulch to protect their roots from freezing temperatures. Harvest when the rounded tops emerge above the soil. They prefer partial to full sunlight and well-drained, moist loamy or sandy soil, taking between 55 and 70 days to mature.

3. Broccoli

   Broccoli has a moderate growth period, taking up to 3 months to mature. It flourishes in full sunlight and well-draining soil. Harvest when the heads are fist-sized. This plant requires moist, loamy soil and matures in under 100 days.

4. Cabbage

   Fall is a great time for cabbage planting, provided you keep the soil moist, especially in winter. Cabbage tolerates cold well but should be covered if temperatures fall below 45°F. It matures roughly 60 to 70 days after planting, indicated by firm heads that aren't springy to the touch. It thrives in full light and well-drained loamy soil.

5. Carrots

   Carrots thrive in cooler weather, making them ideal for fall planting. Light frost can enhance their flavor, but they need 6 to 7 hours of sunlight daily. Carrots prefer full sun or partial shade, along with loose, well-draining soil. They mature within 50 to 75 days after planting.

6. Garlic

   Plant garlic in the fall, ideally at least 30 days before the first expected frost. Harvest when the lower leaves turn brown. These plants require full sun and well-drained, moist soil, taking about 270 days to be ready for harvest.

7. Lettuce

   Lettuce is sensitive to temperature, so ensure it’s planted where temperatures stay above 45°F. It thrives in partial or full sunlight and rich, loamy, well-drained soil, maturing in 150 to 240 days.

8. Onions

   For a winter onion harvest, plant them in the fall. They may grow or stay dormant through winter, ready for spring harvest. Talons, Bridgers, and Evergreen Hardy Whites are excellent choices. They require full sun and well-drained loamy soil, taking 90 to 120 days to mature.

9. Peas

   Known for their frosty resilience, peas can withstand cold but should not be exposed to prolonged freezing nights. Harvest when they are firm and plump. They thrive in full or partial sun and well-drained, moist soil, maturing in about 60 to 65 days.

10. Spinach

Spinach should be planted in cooler soil (below 70°F) during fall. It requires partial or full light and well-drained, moist loamy soil, taking 30 to 45 days to mature.

Other vegetables you can consider planting this fall for a robust spring harvest include Swiss chard, turnips, shallots, rutabagas, radishes, kohlrabi, kale, fava beans, endive, collard greens, cauliflower, bulb fennel, Brussels sprouts, bok choy, and asparagus.