Late-season planting offers a valuable second chance for gardeners looking to maximize space and production before frost sets in. Whether you’re replanting after an early harvest or filling in empty garden beds, choosing fast-growing vegetables allows you to enjoy fresh produce in as little as 30 to 60 days.
This guide highlights quick-maturing vegetables ideal for late-season planting, with details on timing, care, and harvest strategies to ensure a productive finish to your gardening year.
Why Late-Season Planting Works
Late summer and early fall provide optimal conditions for fast-growing crops:
- Warm soil speeds up germination and root development.
- Shorter daylight hours slow bolting in leafy greens.
- Cooler nights enhance flavor in many vegetables.
- Fewer pest pressures as some insects decline with the season.
With proper planning, these conditions support a robust second crop—especially for cool-season vegetables.
Key Considerations Before Planting
Before planting late in the season, keep these factors in mind:
- Know your first frost date: Count backward from your average first frost to determine your planting window.
- Add a buffer: Choose crops that mature at least 7–10 days before your frost date.
- Check days to maturity: Select varieties labeled 60 days or fewer.
- Use row covers or cold frames: Protect tender seedlings or extend the season.
- Amend soil: Replenish nutrients with compost if you’re replanting after a summer harvest.
12 Fast-Growing Vegetables to Harvest in Under 60 Days
1. Radishes
- Days to maturity: 20–30
- Ideal for: Quick succession planting
- Tips: Sow every 10–14 days for continuous harvests; prefer cool, moist soil.
2. Leaf Lettuce
- Days to maturity: 30–50
- Ideal for: Cut-and-come-again harvesting
- Tips: Provide partial shade in hot climates to reduce bolting.
3. Spinach
- Days to maturity: 35–45
- Ideal for: Cool-season growing
- Tips: Grows best in late summer into fall; harvest outer leaves first.
4. Arugula
- Days to maturity: 30–40
- Ideal for: Spicy greens for salads
- Tips: Direct sow and harvest young for best flavor.
5. Baby Carrots
- Days to maturity: 50–60
- Ideal for: Smaller, sweeter roots
- Tips: Choose short, round varieties like ‘Parisian’ or ‘Little Finger.’
6. Beets
- Days to maturity: 50–60
- Ideal for: Dual use of roots and greens
- Tips: Thin seedlings early; enjoy tender greens while roots mature.
7. Bush Beans
- Days to maturity: 50–55
- Ideal for: Warm soil and quick turnover
- Tips: Direct sow; harvest frequently to encourage more pods.
8. Turnips
- Days to maturity: 40–60
- Ideal for: Fast root growth and edible greens
- Tips: Use for both root harvest and sautéed greens.
9. Pak Choi (Bok Choy)
- Days to maturity: 45–55
- Ideal for: Stir-fry or soups
- Tips: Prefers cool temps and consistent watering.
10. Kale (Baby Stage)
- Days to maturity: 30–40
- Ideal for: Tender baby greens
- Tips: Sow thickly and harvest leaves early.
11. Swiss Chard
- Days to maturity: 50–60
- Ideal for: Continuous cutting into fall
- Tips: Withstands light frost and keeps producing with proper care.
12. Mustard Greens
- Days to maturity: 30–45
- Ideal for: Peppery flavor and quick growth
- Tips: Harvest young leaves for milder taste; tolerate mild frosts.
Tips for Success with Late-Season Vegetables
- Use fresh seeds: Late-season sowing needs strong germination.
- Water consistently: Late summer heat can stress young plants.
- Mulch lightly: Maintain moisture and reduce weed competition.
- Harvest early and often: Young vegetables are tender and flavorful.
- Protect from early frosts: Use row covers or low tunnels as temperatures drop.
If planting in containers, consider mobility so you can bring plants indoors during unexpected cold snaps.
What to Avoid in Late-Season Planting
| Vegetable | Reason to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes | Require long, hot seasons to ripen fully |
| Peppers | Too slow-growing for short season timelines |
| Corn | Needs long days and space to pollinate properly |
| Squash | Prone to powdery mildew and requires more time |
| Cucumbers | Sensitive to cold, requires longer growth period |
Late summer is not ideal for crops that take 70+ days to mature unless you live in a warm climate with a late frost date.
Conclusion: Make the Most of Every Growing Day
With the right plant selections and a focus on quick-growing varieties, late-season planting can yield a surprising amount of fresh produce in a short time. From radishes to leafy greens and tender root crops, these vegetables thrive in the cooler days of fall and deliver satisfying harvests before the season ends.
Use your remaining days wisely—prepare your beds, select appropriate crops, and keep a close eye on the weather. Late-season gardening is an opportunity to extend your harvest window, improve food security, and make full use of your garden investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start late-season planting?
Count back from your area’s first expected frost date and choose crops that mature at least 10 days before that. Typically, late July to early September is ideal, depending on your region.
Can I use the same soil for second plantings?
Yes, but amend it first with compost or balanced organic fertilizer to replenish nutrients.
Will these vegetables survive a frost?
Many leafy greens like kale, spinach, and arugula tolerate light frost. Others may need protection as temperatures drop.
Is it too late to plant in containers?
Not at all. Containers can be moved to sheltered spots or indoors during cold nights, making them ideal for extending the season.
What can I plant after harvesting bush beans or lettuce?
Quick-growing crops like radishes, arugula, and baby carrots make excellent follow-ups in warm soil.