7 Fall Vegetables to Grow in Your Garden

As the air cools and the days get shorter, it’s easy to assume that gardening season is over. But fall is actually one of the best times to grow vegetables. Cooler temperatures mean fewer pests, less watering, and deliciously sweet crops. Whether you’re looking to harvest through the fall or set up for a spring yield, these seven vegetables are perfect for planting when the summer heat fades.

Let’s explore which fall vegetables to plant, how to care for them, and what makes them thrive in the crisp air of autumn.

1. Kale

Kale is practically made for fall gardening. It loves the cool weather and actually gets sweeter after the first frost. This nutrient-packed leafy green thrives in temperatures between 45°F and 55°F.

• How to grow it: Start by sowing kale seeds in late summer or early fall, depending on your first frost date. Space seeds about 12 inches apart, and thin them as they grow. Kale doesn’t need much, just regular watering and a bit of compost for healthy leaves.

• Harvesting tip: You can begin picking kale leaves when they’re young and tender, or wait for larger, more mature leaves. The more you pick, the more it grows!

2. Spinach

Spinach is one of the fastest-growing fall vegetables, making it perfect for late-season gardeners. It thrives in cool weather, and you can harvest it in just 30 to 45 days from sowing.

• How to grow it: Plant spinach in well-drained soil with full sun or partial shade. Space your seeds about 1 inch apart, then thin them as they grow. Water consistently, and avoid letting the soil dry out too much.

• Harvesting tip: Pick the outer leaves first, leaving the inner ones to keep growing. If frost threatens, harvest the entire plant before it freezes.

3. Carrots

Carrots thrive in the fall, especially when planted a few weeks before the first frost. The cooler weather makes the roots sweet and tender, and they’re easier to grow in fall than in the heat of summer.

• How to grow it: Carrots need loose, well-draining soil to grow properly. Plant seeds directly into the ground about 1/4 inch deep. Space seeds about 1 inch apart, and thin them out as they grow.

• Harvesting tip: Wait until your carrots are mature (usually 60 to 75 days) and gently pull them up from the soil. Carrots grown in fall will be some of the sweetest you’ve ever tasted!

4. Radishes

Radishes are one of the fastest-growing fall crops, with a harvest time of just 30 days! Their fast turnaround makes them perfect for planting in late summer or early fall.

• How to grow it: Radishes like full sun and can handle a variety of soil types. Sow seeds about 1/2 inch deep and space them 1 inch apart. Keep the soil consistently moist to prevent the radishes from becoming tough or woody.

• Harvesting tip: Radishes are ready to harvest when they’re about the size of a marble. Leave them in the ground too long, and they’ll get spicy!

5. Beets

Beets are another cool-season vegetable that does wonderfully in fall. They grow well in rich, moist soil, and the cooler weather helps them produce vibrant, tender roots.

• How to grow it: Plant beet seeds about 1 inch apart and 1/2 inch deep in well-drained soil. Beets need about 6 hours of sunlight each day. Water them consistently and mulch to keep the soil cool.

• Harvesting tip: You can eat both the roots and the greens of beets. For the roots, wait until they’re 2-3 inches in diameter. For the greens, harvest when they’re young and tender.

6. Broccoli

Broccoli is a great fall vegetable because it thrives in the cooler months. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Broccoli is best when started in late summer or early fall for a fall harvest.

• How to grow it: Start seeds indoors in late summer, then transplant seedlings outdoors when they’re about 6 weeks old. Space them 18 to 24 inches apart in well-drained, fertile soil. Water them regularly, and consider adding a bit of compost.

• Harvesting tip: Cut the main head when it’s tight and firm, and you’ll get side shoots that keep producing throughout the fall.

7. Garlic

Garlic is one of those crops that requires patience, but it’s well worth the wait. Plant garlic in the fall for a summer harvest, giving it plenty of time to grow strong over the winter.

• How to grow it: Garlic is typically planted in late fall, before the ground freezes. Separate cloves and plant them 2 inches deep with the pointed side up, about 6 inches apart. Garlic loves well-draining soil with a bit of compost or organic matter.

• Harvesting tip: Garlic is ready to harvest when the leaves begin to yellow in early summer. Let it cure in a dry, warm spot for a few weeks before storing.

Fall Gardening Tips for Success

• Plan for frost: Be mindful of your region’s first frost date. For crops like spinach, kale, and radishes, this is usually no problem, but for longer-growing crops like beets and carrots, you’ll want to get them planted early enough to mature before frost.

• Mulch for protection: A layer of mulch helps protect plants from early frosts, retains moisture, and keeps weeds at bay.

• Water regularly: Even though temperatures are cooler, fall vegetables still need steady water. Make sure the soil stays moist but not soggy.

• Use row covers: If temperatures drop unexpectedly or if you’re growing slower-maturing crops, row covers can help protect your plants from frost damage.

Conclusion

Fall gardening is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy fresh, homegrown vegetables well into the cooler months. With the right fall vegetables—like kale, carrots, and spinach—you can take full advantage of the season’s cooler weather to grow crops that thrive. By getting your fall garden ready early, you’ll enjoy vibrant harvests now and prepare your garden for the year ahead.

So grab your seeds, plan your plot, and enjoy all the fall gardening goodness that’s waiting for you!