Think gardening ends with summer? Think again. Fall is one of the most productive, low-maintenance seasons to grow vegetables, herbs, and greens. With cooler temperatures, fewer pests, and gentler sunlight, autumn offers the perfect window to grow flavorful crops — many of which thrive even better than they do in spring.
In this guide, you’ll learn what to plant in your fall garden, when to plant it, and how to get the most out of your space before winter sets in.
Why Plant a Fall Garden?
Fall gardening offers unique advantages:
- Cool-season crops grow better in crisp air
- Fewer pests and diseases = healthier plants
- Less watering needed thanks to reduced evaporation
- Some veggies taste sweeter after a light frost
- Fall crops extend your harvest into late autumn or even early winter
Even if you’re short on space or time, the fall garden is worth starting — and easier than you might think.
When to Plant Fall Crops
To plant successfully, you’ll need to:
- Know your first expected frost date
- Count backward from that date based on a crop’s maturity time
- Add 1–2 weeks buffer for slower fall growth
For example, if your first frost is around November 1 and you want to grow a crop that matures in 50 days, aim to plant it by mid-September.
What to Plant in a Fall Garden (By Category)
Here’s a list of top-performing fall crops — organized by type, with tips on when and how to grow them.
🥬 Leafy Greens
These are cold-hardy, fast-growing, and perfect for small spaces or containers.
| Crop | Days to Harvest | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spinach | 30–45 days | Becomes sweeter after frost |
| Kale | 40–60 days | Very frost-tolerant, grows through fall |
| Arugula | 20–30 days | Fast grower; plant in succession |
| Lettuce | 30–60 days | Loose-leaf types grow faster |
| Swiss Chard | 45–60 days | Tolerates light frost; cut-and-come-again |
Pro Tip: Sow every 1–2 weeks for a steady supply of baby greens.
🥕 Root Vegetables
Cool weather improves flavor and texture for many root crops.
| Crop | Days to Harvest | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Carrots | 60–80 days | Choose short or round varieties for speed |
| Beets | 50–60 days | Dual harvest: roots and greens |
| Radishes | 25–35 days | Perfect for quick, early fall harvests |
| Turnips | 45–60 days | Edible roots and leafy tops |
| Rutabagas | 80–90 days | Best started early to mature before hard frost |
🧅 Alliums (Onion Family)
Easy to grow in cooler weather and great for fall meals.
| Crop | Days to Harvest | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Green Onions | 30–45 days | Plant densely for scallions |
| Garlic (bulbs) | Harvest next summer | Fall is the perfect time to plant! |
Tip: Garlic cloves need overwintering to develop large bulbs — plant in fall, harvest in late spring or summer.
🥦 Brassicas (Cabbage Family)
These vegetables thrive in cool air and can tolerate light frosts.
| Crop | Days to Harvest | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Broccoli | 60–80 days | Needs early planting in late summer |
| Cauliflower | 70–90 days | Cooler temps help prevent premature bolting |
| Brussels Sprouts | 90–100 days | Great for long fall seasons |
| Cabbage | 60–90 days | Choose compact varieties for small beds |
| Pak Choi | 30–50 days | Fast and ideal for stir-fries |
Note: Start most brassicas indoors in mid to late summer, then transplant for fall harvest.
🌿 Herbs
Some herbs handle fall weather well, especially in protected areas.
| Herb | Notes |
|---|---|
| Parsley | Very cold-hardy — often survives into winter |
| Cilantro | Prefers cool weather and bolts in summer |
| Chives | Can overwinter in mild climates |
| Thyme | Tolerates light frost; perfect in containers |
Crops to Avoid in Fall
These crops are too frost-sensitive or require long warm seasons:
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Cucumbers
- Summer squash
- Corn
- Melons
If you want to grow them in fall, you’ll need a greenhouse or grow lights.
Tips for a Productive Fall Garden
✅ Use Row Covers or Cloches
Protect plants from early frosts and trap daytime warmth for extended growing.
✅ Amend the Soil
Fall crops appreciate nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. Add compost or worm castings before planting.
✅ Water Early in the Day
Helps avoid fungal issues from overnight dampness in cooler weather.
✅ Watch for Pests
Cabbage worms and aphids may still be active — use netting or natural deterrents.
✅ Succession Plant
Plant fast crops (like radishes, arugula) every 7–10 days to keep your harvest going strong.
What Can I Grow in Containers or Small Spaces?
Fall is ideal for container gardens! Try:
- Lettuce mixes
- Baby spinach
- Green onions
- Arugula
- Radishes
- Pak choi
- Herbs (parsley, cilantro, thyme)
Use containers at least 6–10 inches deep with good drainage and place in full sun.
FAQs
When should I start my fall garden?
Most fall crops should be planted 6–10 weeks before your first frost. Count back from your local frost date to find the best window.
Can I plant fall crops in summer heat?
Yes, but start seeds in shade or indoors to avoid heat stress, then transplant when temperatures cool slightly.
Do fall vegetables need fertilizer?
Yes — add compost or use a gentle organic fertilizer every 2–3 weeks to support healthy root and leaf development.
How can I protect fall crops from frost?
Use row covers, cloches, cold frames, or even lightweight sheets to cover crops on frosty nights.
What happens if I plant too late?
Crops may grow slowly or fail to mature before frost. Choose faster-growing varieties and use protection to stretch the season.
Final Thoughts
Fall gardening is one of the best-kept secrets in home growing. With the right crop selection and timing, you can enjoy delicious, cold-weather vegetables long after summer ends. From leafy greens and root vegetables to herbs and brassicas, your garden can stay active well into autumn — even in containers or raised beds.
Start early, plant smart, and your fall garden will reward you with fresh, flavorful harvests when most other gardens are shutting down.