Planting Guide: What to Plant in October in California

October is an exciting time for gardeners in California. The cooler weather provides perfect growing conditions for many plants, and it鈥檚 a great time to start planning for your fall and winter garden. Here are some great plants to consider planting in October:

Vegetables

October is the perfect time to plant many vegetables in California. Some great options include:

Broccoli and Cauliflower:

These cool-loving vegetables thrive in California in the fall and winter. Start your seeds indoors and transplant them into your garden after a few weeks. Be sure to water them regularly and fertilize them with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer.

Leafy Greens:

Many types of leafy greens including lettuce, spinach, and kale can be planted in October. These veggies thrive in cool weather and will provide a steady supply of greens throughout the fall and winter.

Root Vegetables:

October is a great time to plant root vegetables like carrots, turnips, and radishes. Make sure your soil is well-drained and fertile, and avoid planting in soil that has too much nitrogen.

Flowers

October is also a great time to plant flowers in California. Whether you鈥檙e looking for a pop of color or something to attract pollinators to your garden, there are plenty of great flower options to consider:

Chrysanthemums:

Chrysanthemums, also known as mums, are a popular fall flower. They come in a variety of colors including yellow, red, and orange, and can add a pop of color to your garden.

Nasturtiums:

Nasturtiums are easy to grow and produce beautiful, brightly colored flowers that attract bees and butterflies to your garden. They can also be used in salads or as a peppery garnish.

Snapdragons:

Snapdragons are a great option if you鈥檙e looking to add height to your garden. They come in a variety of colors and can grow up to 36 inches tall.

Herbs

Herbs are a great addition to any garden, and October is a great time to plant them in California. Here are some herbs that thrive in the cooler fall weather:

Parsley:

Parsley is a hardy herb that can be planted in October. It鈥檚 high in vitamins A and C and adds a fresh flavor to many dishes.

Chives:

Chives are a great herb to grow in the fall. They鈥檙e easy to care for and their purple flowers attract bees and butterflies to your garden.

Thyme:

Thyme is a great option if you鈥檙e looking for a perennial herb that will last for many years. It鈥檚 also a great source of vitamins C and A.

Overall, there are plenty of great plants to consider planting in October in California. Just be sure to do your research and choose plants that are best suited for your specific growing conditions.