When the days start to get shorter and cooler temperatures begin to set in, many gardeners may think it’s time to hang up their gardening gloves for the season. However, fall can actually be a fantastic time to plant certain vegetables that thrive in the autumn weather. So, what vegetable is good to plant in the fall? Let’s explore some options!
Beets
Beets are a great vegetable to plant in the fall because they can survive light frosts. These colorful root vegetables are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients like folate and manganese. Plus, beet greens can be enjoyed as a tasty addition to salads or sautéed as a side dish.
Chinese Cabbage
Chinese cabbage, also known as Napa cabbage, is another excellent choice for fall planting. This leafy green vegetable is mild in flavor and can be used in a variety of dishes such as stir-fries, soups, and salads. It’s rich in vitamins A and C, making it a nutritious addition to your fall garden.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a cool-season vegetable that thrives when planted in the fall. This cruciferous vegetable is not only versatile in the kitchen but also high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Whether roasted, mashed, or added to soups, cauliflower is a delicious and nutritious choice for your fall garden.
Celery
Celery is another vegetable that can withstand light frosts, making it a suitable option for fall planting. This crunchy and refreshing vegetable is low in calories but high in antioxidants and beneficial nutrients like vitamin K. Enjoy celery raw as a snack or add it to soups and stews for extra flavor.
Collards
Collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine and are perfect for planting in the fall. These leafy greens are rich in vitamins K, A, and C, as well as fiber and folate. Collards can be cooked in a variety of ways, from sautéing with garlic and olive oil to simmering with smoked ham hocks for a hearty dish.
Green Onions
Green onions, also known as scallions, are quick-growing vegetables that are ideal for fall planting. These flavorful alliums can be used raw in salads, salsas, and garnishes, or cooked in stir-fries and soups. Green onions add a fresh burst of flavor to any dish and can be harvested continuously as they grow.
Potatoes
Potatoes are a versatile and hearty vegetable that can be planted in the fall for a late-season harvest. Whether you prefer russet, red, or Yukon Gold potatoes, fall planting can yield a bountiful crop of this starchy vegetable. Enjoy potatoes roasted, mashed, or boiled for a comforting autumn meal.
Bibb and Leaf Lettuce
Bibb and leaf lettuce are excellent choices for fall planting as they can tolerate cooler temperatures. These tender salad greens are rich in vitamins A and K, as well as folate and iron. Harvest fresh lettuce leaves for salads, sandwiches, and wraps straight from your fall garden.
Mustard
Mustard greens are a zesty and nutritious vegetable that can be planted in the fall for a spicy addition to your meals. Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants, mustard greens can be enjoyed raw in salads or cooked in soups, stir-fries, and sautés. Experiment with different cooking methods to find your favorite way to enjoy this flavorful green.
Parsnips
Parsnips are a sweet and earthy root vegetable that thrives in the cool temperatures of fall. High in fiber, vitamins C and K, as well as minerals like potassium, parsnips are a nutritious addition to your autumn garden. Roast parsnips with herbs and olive oil or add them to soups and stews for a deliciously comforting dish.
Radishes
Radishes are quick-growing vegetables that are perfect for fall planting and can be harvested in as little as three weeks. These crunchy and peppery root vegetables are rich in vitamin C and fiber, making them a healthy addition to salads, sandwiches, and snacks. Plant a variety of radish colors and shapes for a fun and flavorful fall harvest.
Spinach
Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable that can be planted in the fall for a continuous harvest throughout the season. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and folate, spinach is a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed raw in salads, sautéed as a side dish, or added to pasta dishes and soups for extra nutrients.
Swiss Chard
Swiss chard is a colorful and nutrient-rich vegetable that is perfect for fall planting. This leafy green vegetable is high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as magnesium and iron. Swiss chard can be used in a variety of dishes, from sautés and stir-fries to quiches and casseroles, adding a vibrant pop of color and flavor to your fall meals.
