Don't Fear the Frost

Planting an edible fall garden is a narrative different from that in spring. Growing food into the colder months requires thoughtful planning; we must take into account the changing season and select nourishing plants of a hardier variety. But what it takes in planning it more than makes up for in reward. Harvesting your own vegetables, fruit and herbs well into winter is gratifying, nutritious and, if done right, makes economic sense too. 

Autumn is a great time to plant hardy fruit trees, winter vegetable starters and cold weather seeds for a delicious array of fall and winter produce—with fewer weeds than a spring and summer garden!

Root vegetables and brassicas

Most of us know about the ubiquitous winter kale, but there’s a rainbow of other hardy vegetables that grow well here too. Root vegetables and brassicas are ideal candidates—radishes, beets, turnips and carrots too. Planted in early fall, these will have time to get their greens above ground and be ready to harvest through fall and winter.

Radishes are the fastest growing of these vegetables, providing an easy, fuss-free crop. Beets, turnips and carrots are also easy, but they take much longer because they are a larger root. Plant them in rich, loose and deep soil for optimum root growth. 

Brassicas like broccoli, cauliflower, kale, cabbage and Brussels sprouts are better planted from starters in the late summer or early fall if you want a fall or winter harvest. Sow from seed to harvest the following spring and summer. 

The key to winter veggies is to get them in the ground early enough to get their roots established before frost. These dirt-grown delicacies are known as winter vegetables because of their ability to thrive in very cold temperatures and actually become sweeter after a frost. Brassicas form a frost protection in their cells made of sugar and root vegetables turn some of their starches into sugar to create an antifreeze environment. Cool, right?!

Fruit trees

Plant hardy fruit trees such as apple, pear and plum now, and you will be harvesting these fruits in future autumns. Depending on their size, the trees may take a few years to produce, so get them planted this fall!

Planting during the dormant season is best for fruit trees, creating the least amount of stress on them. Fall planting helps keep the roots moist and gives them a chance to settle in and acclimate to their new spot before the vigorous growth period in spring. Be sure to choose a variety that grows well in our climate; generally trees rated for zone 7 or lower will do well here.

Apples, pears and plums are top choices for fall planting, but delicate trees like peaches are safer planted in early spring. Be sure to choose a tree that self-pollinates or one that will pollinate with other trees in your yard. The tag on the tree or a good garden shop will be able to tell you. 

Other fall/winter crops to consider: peas, potatoes, onions, leeks, fava beans, arugula, mustard greens, Swiss chard, corn salad, spinach, Bok choy.