Maegan-Leigh JacobsAs Autumn begins to draw closer, it’s time to turn your attention to the garden and consider the array of vegetables that thrive in the cooler months ahead.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice with a green thumb, planting the right crops during autumn ensures a hearty winter harvest. The key is to start indoors and gradually transition your seedlings outside, adapting to the specific needs of your climate.
Vegetables to start planting in Autumn
The autumn garden stars shine brightly in three categories: leafy greens, root crops, and the mighty brassica big four – broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and kale. Additionally, short-lived herbs such as coriander, rocket, dill, basil, parsley, borage, chives, and garlic chives can also find a cosy spot in your autumn kitchen garden.
Broccoli (Plant by April)
Kickstart your autumn planting with broccoli, considering April as the final call. Ensure these plants bask in full winter sun and receive regular watering to prevent wilting.
Cabbage (Winter varieties)
Explore winter cabbage varieties like ‘Cape Spitz,’ ‘Brunswick,’ ‘Drumhead,’ ‘Glory of Enkhuizen,’ and hybrids ‘Conquistador’ and ‘Hercules.’ Provide them with full sun, fertile, well-draining soil, and adequate spacing for optimal head formation.
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Cauliflower (Early Autumn planting)
Choose cauliflower for its short growing period and nutrient-loving nature. Plant it in early autumn, avoiding sudden temperature changes, extreme cold, or heat.
Kale (Cold-tolerant superfood)
This robust brassica, less susceptible to pests and diseases, thrives in full sun or semi-shade. Cultivate kale in slightly acidic, fertile soil for a nutritious addition to your winter meals.
Carrots (Cool-season varieties)
Sow ‘Cape Market’ and ‘Scarlet Nantes’ carrot varieties in deep, loose, well-draining soil. These cool-season carrots are perfect for autumn planting.
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Beetroot (Versatile all-year crop)
Enjoy the diverse range of beetroot varieties, from deep ruby red to Chioggia, Albino, Cylindra, and Golden Globe. Plant in spring to autumn in frosty regions, avoiding midwinter sowings to prevent premature seeding.
ALSO READ: HOW TO GROW CAULIFLOWER
Radishes
Plant radishes directly outside in well-drained soil for an easy autumn crop. These frost-tolerant vegetables prefer sunny spots so plant them in areas that get mostly sun during the day in Autumn.
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Lettuce
Both loose-leaf and crisp-head lettuce varieties flourish in autumn and winter. Plant in fertile soil with consistent moisture, ensuring adequate spacing to prevent fungal diseases.
Spinach
Sow spinach during cooler months, either in containers during cold weather or directly in the ground. This easy-to-grow crop thrives in shade or partially shaded areas.
Swiss Chard
A beautiful and healthy leafy green, Swiss Chard prefers rich, well-drained soil in full sun or light shade. With its frost tolerance and adaptability to various soils, it’s a hassle-free addition to your autumn garden.
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ALSO SEE: 13 TIPS TO PREPARE YOUR GARDEN FOR AUTUMN
Feature image: Unsplash
