Interested in planting a spring vegetable garden but feeling a bit overwhelmed? You are not alone! There is a plethora of information regarding plants and timelines, so deciding what vegetables to plant and when can be challenging. Many people are under the impression that you must wait until the spring to start gardening, which isn’t the case. Numerous vegetable plants survive in the winter, making fall a great time to start! Here is a list of fall vegetables to plant, along with some helpful tips to make your spring vegetable garden a success!
Why Fall Planting Can Work Well
Contrary to popular belief, with the proper planning and care, fall garden plants will thrive. This is because the ground remains warm for some time during the fall, allowing plant roots to develop and grow strong. Because there are fewer weeds in the ground during the fall, your fall plants face less competition for crucial soil nutrients and rain. And, since there are many vegetable plants that do well during the fall and winter, you can have a beautiful vegetable garden come spring!
When to Plant
Though a few trees can be planted during winter months, fall garden plants need to become well established to survive the winter and make it through to the spring. Because of this, it is best to begin planting your fall plants about six weeks before the ground freezes. Please know that this date will vary greatly depending on where you live and based on the fluctuation of temperature in your area. As you decide to plant your spring vegetable garden, think about when the temperatures typically begin to drop within your area (when winter really begin to set in). Then, select the location and fertilize your soil so that your fall plants have plenty of time to get established and grow strong.
Related Topic: 5 Fall Landscaping Mistakes to Avoid
Start with Alliums and Root Vegetables
While it is exciting to dive into creating your very own spring vegetable garden, if this is your first year doing so, you should focus mainly on growing allium vegetables (such as onions, garlic, and shallots) and root vegetables (beets, carrots, and radishes). These type vegetables are hardy, easy for beginners to plant in the fall, and increase your chances for a bountiful crop in the spring. Once you have a successful yield, you can add more crops to your spring vegetable garden next fall.
Starting Seeds Indoors
Now that you know how to start your outdoor spring vegetable garden this fall, begin gathering the supplies and seeds you need to create a spring vegetable garden indoors too.
Like your outdoor fall garden, it is best to begin this process about 8 weeks before the first frost. Make sure to use high-quality seeds. Place your seeds in the planting trays with some potting soil and plant food to ensure your seedlings get the nutrients they need to grow healthy. As long as the temperature where you’re growing your indoor plants doesn’t drop below freezing, starting plants indoors will expand the number of vegetables you can grow to include basil, cabbage, cilantro, eggplant, and tomatoes, as well as many others. Once your seedlings become established, make sure to provide them with consistent hydration and the appropriate amount of sun (based on requirements).
Related Topic: How to Winterize Your Landscaping
Brighten Your Winter Landscape
Now that you have decided to put your green thumb to work this fall, you can also brighten your winter landscape with the addition of some plants that thrive during the fall and winter months. In addition to your fall garden, consider adding some of the following silver fall plants:
'Silver King' artemisia
Lavendar
Russian Sage
Yellow Archangel
Licorice
Silver-leaved Poplar
Although extremely attractive on their own, silver fall plants work especially well in combination with many flowers, serving as a backdrop that can enhance colorful blooms throughout the year.
Silver plants can also help brighten shaded areas of your landscaping where darker plants may tend to get lost. When planted in combination with other plants, silver foliage provides a nice contrast. Many experienced gardeners have used silver-foliage plants in gardens that are meant to be enjoyed under the light of the moon.
Busy with Your Fall Garden?
Starting a fall garden can be very rewarding. It can also be a fun activity to do over the winter months, and give you something to look forward to when spring arrives. And although it’s not hard to do, it does take time and effort to succeed.
If you’re busy with you fall/winter garden and need help with the rest of your landscaping, The Grounds Guys are ready to pitch in. Our full range of landscape services will ensure both your fall garden and the rest of your landscaping look their absolute best. To learn more about our services, or to schedule an appointment, visit us online today!