Think fall gardening is just an afterthought? Think again. With the right timing, your garden can stay productive long after summer ends — even thriving through frosty nights. The secret? A planting chart tailored for fall.
This guide breaks down exactly what to plant, when to plant it, and how long it takes to grow — all in a clear, easy-to-follow format that will completely change how you approach autumn gardening.
Why Fall Gardening Works — If You Plan It Right
Fall offers some major advantages over spring and summer gardening:
- Cooler temperatures mean better flavor and less stress
- Fewer pests and diseases
- Less watering needed due to lower evaporation
- Some crops taste better after light frost (like carrots and kale)
But fall’s shorter days and colder nights require precise timing. That’s where a planting chart makes all the difference.
How to Use This Fall Planting Chart
To get the timing right, you’ll need to:
- Know your average first frost date
- Count backward from that date based on the crop’s maturity
- Add 7–14 days to account for slower fall growth
- Choose crops based on how many days are left before frost
The chart below is based on cool-season vegetables that thrive in fall. Adjust dates to fit your region by checking your local frost calendar.
The Ultimate Fall Planting Chart
| Crop | Days to Maturity | Last Planting Time Before Frost | Cold Tolerance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radishes | 25–30 days | 4 weeks before | Very High |
| Arugula | 20–30 days | 4–6 weeks before | High |
| Spinach | 35–50 days | 6–8 weeks before | Very High |
| Lettuce (loose) | 30–45 days | 6 weeks before | Moderate–High |
| Kale | 50–65 days | 6–8 weeks before | Very High |
| Turnips | 45–60 days | 6–8 weeks before | High |
| Carrots | 60–80 days | 10 weeks before | High (flavor improves) |
| Beets | 50–60 days | 6–8 weeks before | High |
| Green onions | 30–45 days | 6–8 weeks before | Moderate |
| Pak Choi | 30–50 days | 6 weeks before | Moderate–High |
| Cabbage (mini) | 60–75 days | 10–12 weeks before | High |
| Broccoli | 60–80 days | 10–12 weeks before | Moderate |
| Cauliflower | 70–90 days | 12+ weeks before | Low–Moderate |
| Swiss Chard | 45–60 days | 6–8 weeks before | Moderate–High |
| Mustard Greens | 30–50 days | 6 weeks before | High |
Top Fall Crops You Can Still Plant Late
Missed the early planting window? These crops still work in late fall or when you’re just getting started:
- Radishes
- Arugula
- Mustard greens
- Baby spinach
- Green onions
- Microgreens
These all mature quickly — and most tolerate frost well.
Where to Plant in Fall
Fall crops do well in:
- Raised beds (warm up faster)
- Deep containers (ideal for small-space gardeners)
- Cold frames or mini greenhouses
- South-facing plots (get more sun as days shorten)
Tips to Get the Most from Your Fall Planting Chart
✅ Start seeds indoors for slower-growing crops like broccoli, cabbage, or kale — then transplant once established.
✅ Use succession planting for fast crops (like radishes or arugula) every 7–10 days.
✅ Add row covers to retain warmth and protect from early frost.
✅ Mulch deeply around root crops to stabilize soil temps and moisture.
✅ Adjust watering — cooler weather means less frequent watering, but don’t let soil dry out.
Cold Tolerance Levels Explained
- Very High – Can survive hard frost and snow (e.g., kale, spinach, carrots)
- High – Can tolerate light to moderate frost (e.g., beets, lettuce, turnips)
- Moderate – May need protection (e.g., broccoli, green onions)
- Low – Use row covers or grow indoors if frost threatens (e.g., cauliflower)
Knowing this helps you prioritize late-season protection and extend your harvest.
FAQs
What if I miss the planting window?
You can still grow fast crops like arugula, radishes, and spinach. Also, plant garlic in late fall for next summer’s harvest.
How do I find my local frost date?
Check with your local extension office, gardening center, or online frost calculators by ZIP code.
Can I use this chart for spring too?
Yes — many cool-weather crops work for both spring and fall, but fall often offers better flavor and fewer pests.
Do I need a greenhouse to grow in fall?
Not at all. With the right crops, timing, and a few row covers, you can grow a productive fall garden outdoors.
Can I grow fall crops indoors or on a window?
Definitely. Try greens, microgreens, scallions, and herbs near a sunny window or under grow lights.
Final Thoughts
With this simple but powerful fall planting chart, you no longer need to guess what or when to plant. Whether you’re working with containers, raised beds, or a full garden, fall can be one of your most productive growing seasons — if you plan ahead.
Start with fast-growing greens, hardy roots, and frost-tolerant crops. Follow the timing chart closely. And enjoy fresh food from your garden even as the temperature drops.
Because when you plant smart in fall — everything changes.