In September, there are several crops that you can plant in North Carolina to take advantage of the cooler fall weather. These crops will thrive and produce well before the first frost hits. Here are some suggestions for what crops to plant in September in NC:
1. Green Beans: Green beans are a versatile and easy-to-grow crop that can be planted directly into the garden in September. They mature relatively quickly, usually within 50-60 days, so you can enjoy a bountiful harvest before the frost arrives. Look for varieties that are suitable for fall planting, such as ‘Provider’ or ‘Bush Blue Lake’.
2. Carrots: Carrots are another great crop to plant in September. They prefer cooler temperatures and can be sown directly into the soil. Choose a variety that is suited for fall planting, like ‘Scarlet Nantes’ or ‘Danvers Half Long’. Remember to thin the seedlings as they grow to ensure proper spacing and allow room for the carrots to develop.
3. Beets: Beets are a nutritious and colorful root vegetable that can be planted in September. They are relatively easy to grow and can tolerate cooler temperatures. Look for varieties such as ‘Detroit Dark Red’ or ‘Bull’s Blood’. Sow the seeds directly into the garden and thin the seedlings as they grow.
4. Swiss Chard: Swiss chard is a leafy green vegetable that can be planted in September for a fall harvest. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate cooler temperatures and even a light frost. Swiss chard comes in various colors, such as green, red, and yellow, and can add a vibrant touch to your garden. Sow the seeds directly into the soil and thin the seedlings as they grow.
5. Kohlrabi: Kohlrabi is a unique vegetable that is part of the cabbage family. It has a bulbous stem that is crisp and sweet, and the leaves are also edible. Kohlrabi can be planted in September for a fall harvest. Look for varieties like ‘Early White Vienna’ or ‘Purple Vienna’. Sow the seeds directly into the garden and thin the seedlings as they grow.
6. Leeks: Leeks are a delicious and versatile vegetable that can be planted in September. They have a milder flavor than onions and can be used in various dishes. Leeks prefer cooler temperatures and can be sown directly into the garden. Look for varieties like ‘American Flag’ or ‘Giant Musselburgh’. Plant the seeds in shallow trenches and gradually fill in the soil as the leeks grow.
7. Rutabaga: Rutabaga is a root vegetable that is similar to a turnip but has a sweeter flavor. It can be planted in September for a fall harvest. Rutabagas prefer cooler temperatures and can tolerate light frosts. Look for varieties like ‘American Purple Top’ or ‘Laurentian’. Sow the seeds directly into the garden and thin the seedlings as they grow.
8. Parsnip: Parsnip is a root vegetable that is similar to a carrot but has a sweeter and nuttier flavor. It can be planted in September for a fall harvest. Parsnips prefer cooler temperatures and can tolerate light frosts. Look for varieties like ‘Harris Model’ or ‘All American’. Sow the seeds directly into the garden and thin the seedlings as they grow.
9. Turnips: Turnips are a fast-growing and versatile vegetable that can be planted in September. They have a mild flavor and can be enjoyed both raw and cooked. Turnips prefer cooler temperatures and can tolerate light frosts. Look for varieties like ‘Purple Top White Globe’ or ‘Tokyo Cross’. Sow the seeds directly into the garden and thin the seedlings as they grow.
10. Squash, Zucchini, and Cucumbers: If you have enough time before the first expected fall frost, you can also plant summer squash, zucchini, and cucumbers in September. These warm-season crops require a longer growing season, so it’s important to choose early-maturing varieties and keep an eye on the weather. Look for varieties that can mature within 50-60 days, such as ‘Black Beauty’ squash, ‘Burpee Hybrid’ zucchini, or ‘Marketmore’ cucumbers. Plant the seeds directly into the garden and provide adequate space for the plants to spread.
September is a great time to plant a variety of crops in North Carolina. Take advantage of the cooler fall weather and extend your growing season by planting green beans, carrots, beets, Swiss chard, kohlrabi, leeks, rutabaga, parsnip, turnips, squash, zucchini, and cucumbers directly into the garden. Enjoy the process of nurturing these plants and look forward to a bountiful harvest before the first frost arrives.
