Autumn Gardening: What to Plant in Your Fall Garden

Although the summer harvest is over, the cooler weather of fall doesn't mean it's time to call an end to gardening. In fact, the fall season is an ideal time to sow several types of plants that will thrive in cooler temperatures. Here, we will give you a rundown of what to plant in your fall garden, so you can enjoy a bountiful harvest this season.

Leafy Greens

Fall is the perfect time to plant leafy greens, such as lettuce, spinach, and kale. These crops enjoy cooler temperatures, and will grow well in the autumn weather, providing a fresh supply of nutritious vegetables throughout the season. Make sure to choose a sunny spot in your garden, and prepare the soil by mixing in compost or well-rotted manure.

Root Vegetables

Carrots, beets, turnips, and other root vegetables grow splendidly in the fall weather. They can withstand light frosts, and the cooler weather allows them to develop more robust flavors than in the summer months. Ensure that the soil is loose and fertile, and avoid over-watering, as this can lead to root rot.

Garlic

Garlic is a low-maintenance crop that can be planted in the fall for a summer harvest. Planting it in autumn will give the bulbs plenty of time to establish deep roots, which will help them to develop a richer flavor. Garlic needs fertile soil with good drainage, so ensure you plant it in raised beds or add compost to your soil, so that it drains well.

Cabbage

Fall is the perfect time to plant cabbage, as it prefers cooler temperatures. Cabbage varieties like green, red, and Savoy are all great options for autumn gardening. Ensure the soil is well-drained and fertile, and plant them in full sun to encourage healthy growth. Using a layer of mulch around the base of the plant will help to conserve moisture and keep the soil temperature constant.

Broccoli

Broccoli is another crop that thrives in cool weather, and it can be planted from mid-to-late summer to enjoy a fall harvest. Broccoli requires well-drained, fertile soil, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Plant your broccoli in full sun, and keep the soil consistently moist, but not water-logged, for optimal growth.

Conclusion

As you can see, autumn shouldn't mark the end of your gardening season. Planting the right crops can ensure a successful harvest, even in cooler weather conditions. Whether you're sowing leafy greens or root vegetables, garlic or cabbage, or even broccoli, there's plenty of options for your fall garden. By following our guide, you'll be able to create an abundant garden this season that you will enjoy for weeks to come.