As the summer vegetables come to the end of their production season, many may be tempted to conclude that the gardening season is coming to a close.  However, as many early summer or spring vegetables stop producing, consider preparing these areas to get more out of them.  There are many garden vegetables that can be planted this time of year and may be harvested later in the fall, or even might be harvested well up into the winter months.  Here is a look at a few potential vegetables you may want to plant.

Brassicas

Brassicas include vegetables such as mustard greens, turnips, kale, or even broccoli or cabbage.  There are many brassicas that, if planted by August 15, will be ready to harvest later on in the year.  Consider that planting some of these may require specific varieties for fall that require fewer days to maturity or fewer hours of daylight.

Leafy Greens

There are many leafy greens that can be planted for fall harvest.  These include spinach, leaf lettuce, and salad bowl mixtures.  Consider constructing a cold frame or utilizing row cover designed for frost protection to extend production season well into the winter months.

Bulb or Root Vegetables

Onions, carrots and parsnips are all examples of vegetables that can be planted in the fall.  Many of these will overwinter come back out in the spring with mulching or even when using frost protective row covers.

Window Herb Gardens

This is a great time of year to also plant some of your favorite herbs in window planters that can be moved indoors.  These can be grown on a patio or porch until the temperatures begin cooling down.  When planted in planters or small pots, these can be moved inside near the kitchen window or somewhere inside the house that gets ample sunlight.  Enjoy using fresh herbs such as basil, chives, oregano and rosemary throughout the winter months.

Learn More About Fall Gardening!

If you would like to learn more about detailed fall gardening recommendations, make sure to attend our upcoming Gardeners' Toolbox Series workshop "Extending the Garden Season".  This workshop will be held on August 29, 2023, starting at 5:30 PM at the Reconciliation House (20 Academy St. Burnsville).

Learn More About the Upcoming Fall Gardening Workshop

If you have questions about planting a fall garden, or if you would like additional information about the upcoming workshop "Extending the Garden Season: Fall Gardening", please contact the N.C. Cooperative Extension, Yancey County Agriculture Extension Agent David Davis (david_davis@ncsu.edu) by email, or contact the N.C. Cooperative Extension, Yancey County Center by calling (828) 682-6186.