Hey all you green thumb enthusiasts, Autumn is around the corner and pretty soon that crisp, fall air will present a unique time to cultivate a garden. To have a successful harvest, knowing what to plant in October is key for both experienced gardeners and beginners alike. This guide highlights…
- What are the best vegetables to plant in October?
- What you need for a successful garden
- What seeds should you sow in October?
- How to incorporate more color into your garden this fall
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in!
This is a transitional time in the garden, marking the shift from the warm, sun-soaked days of summer to the cool, crisp days of fall. Gardeners can enjoy harvesting late summer yields while also planting cool-weather crops for the chilly months ahead. Many plants benefit from the shorter days and cooler nights, with some preferring a frost to bring out their best flavors and colors.
What are the best vegetables to plant in October?
This month is perfect for planting both vegetables and ornamental plants that will keep your garden vibrant and productive.
Veggies to plant in October include leafy greens and root vegetables that grow well in cooler weather. Here are some top choices for autumn crops:
- Spinach: This cold-hardy green can withstand frost and be harvested as baby greens or mature leaves
- Kale: This veggie actually becomes sweeter after a frost. You can use this versatile vegetable in salads, soups, and smoothies.
- Carrots: Planting this root vegetable will give you a sweet and crunchy harvest in late fall or early winter.
- Radishes: One of the quickest-growing October plants is often ready to harvest in just a few weeks.
- Beets: Both the greens and roots are edible, providing a dual-purpose crop that does well in cooler temperatures.
- Certain types of lettuce, such as romaine and butterhead, thrive in cooler temperatures. Planting them in October ensures a steady supply of fresh, crisp leaves for salads.
What do I need for a successful garden?
As you plant your garden, it’s important to consider plant support to help your fall crops thrive. It’s also a great time to tidy up your shed and storage areas. Colder weather, changing conditions, and less sunlight may require extra care for your plants to thrive and stay healthy:
- Organization: A clean workspace can lead to a decluttered and more creative mind when planting your fall gardens. VELCRO® Brand Garden Elastic Cinch Straps help you organize and access lighter items like stakes, tools, and cables. For more substantial items, VELCRO® Brand EASY HANG™ Garden Hose Straps can hold up to 100 pounds and 50ft hoses, allowing for convenient storage and easy access for late-season watering.
- Staking and trellising: These are important for plants like peas to prevent them from falling over as they grow. Paired with VELCRO® Brand Garden Ties, stakes and trellises can provide crucial garden plant support.
- Mulch: Mulch helps your plants retain moisture, regulates soil temperature, and protects plant root systems from freezing. It’s important to check in on your plants frequently, and at the first indication of frost, tuck them in for the fall with a blanket of mulch. As a general rule, fall plantings require 2 to 4 inches of mulch, but be sure to leave a 2-to-3 inch gap around the plant to achieve proper airflow.
- Row Covers: Because you typically see first frosts in the month of October, consider using row covers or frost blankets to protect tender plants from those cold nights. Row covers can help extend your growing season by a few weeks, giving your crops more time to mature.
What Seeds Should I Sow in October?
For advanced gardeners interested in a bigger challenge, consider these seed packets to plant in October:
- Peas: Most varieties are easy to grow and will produce an early harvest in the spring.
- Broad beans: You can plant broad beans in fall for a spring harvest, like peas. They are hardy and can withstand a winter’s chill.
- Garlic: Planting garlic is extremely popular, as it overwinters well and will be ready to harvest the following summer.
- Onions: Planting onions in October gives them a head start before the cold sets in. They will establish roots and be ready for a full growing season come spring.
- Shallots: Like onions, shallots will mature over the winter and give you a flavorful harvest in late spring.
Missing the vibrant colors of spring and summer?
If you’re considering particular plants in October to add some color to your garden, you’re not alone. These flora and fauna are not only beautiful but also hardy enough to survive the cold weather:
- Decorative cabbages and kales: These plants have bright green, pink, and purple leaves, adding vibrant color to your garden beds and pots. They enhance the beauty of your outdoor space.
- Pansies: Classic fall flowers that bloom in fall and can last into winter, adding a pop of color to your landscape.
- Chrysanthemums: Commonly known as ‘mums’, these plants are perfect for adding autumnal flair to your fall vegetable gardening efforts.
Fall gardens can be incredibly rewarding, offering a mix of beauty and productivity. By knowing what crops to plant in October and how to care for them, you’ll set the stage for a thriving garden that produces well into the winter months.
Whether you’re planting leafy greens, root vegetables, or ornamental plants, October is a versatile month for gardening. So, grab your gardening tools and start planting this season’s crops for a bountiful and beautiful garden!
