October might seem like the tail end of the gardening season, but there are still plenty of crops you can plant to keep your garden productive through the fall and winter months. Whether you live in a mild climate like San Diego or a cooler region, this guide covers 11 crops that are perfect for planting right now.
1. Garlic: A Gardener’s Favorite
Garlic is a must-have in any garden, and October is the ideal time to plant it. The two main types are hard neck and soft neck garlic. Hard neck varieties, like Music garlic, are best for colder climates and produce a central flower stalk called a scape, which is edible. Soft neck garlic, such as Inchellium Red, is better suited for warmer climates and has a longer shelf life. If you live in a warmer region, simulate cold exposure by refrigerating your garlic for a few weeks before planting.
2. Corn Salad (Lamb’s Lettuce)
Corn salad is a resilient and nutritious green that thrives in cooler weather. It requires minimal care and can be grown in garden beds or containers. Plant the seeds in well-drained soil and keep them moist until germination, which can take up to three weeks. Corn salad matures in about 60 days and can be harvested by pinching individual leaves or cutting the entire plant.
3. Beets: Versatile and Nutritious
Beets are a great addition to your fall garden, and golden beets are an excellent choice if you find regular beets too earthy. Beets can be grown directly in the ground or transplanted. They thrive in cooler weather and can be harvested in about 60 to 90 days, depending on the variety. Try varieties like Touchstone Gold or Badger Flame for a milder flavor.
4. Blueberries: Fall Planting for Sweet Harvests
Planting blueberries in the fall allows the roots to establish before winter. Choose a variety suited to your area’s chill hours—the number of hours below 45°F needed for the plant to produce fruit. For example, Blueberry Buckle requires 350 chill hours and is perfect for zones 6 to 10. Make sure to amend your soil to a pH of 4.5 to 5 for optimal growth.
5. Fava Beans: A Cool-Weather Crop
Fava beans are perfect for fall planting. They grow best in cooler temperatures and can be harvested in the spring. Choose varieties based on your needs: smaller seeds for cover crops or larger seeds for eating. Plant the seeds about 1 to 2 inches deep, depending on the variety, and space them about 6 inches apart.
6. Napa Cabbage and Other Brassicas
Cabbage and other brassicas like broccoli, kale, and kohlrabi thrive in cool weather. In warmer climates, plant them in mid-to-late October to take advantage of the cooler months and avoid pests like the cabbage looper. Napa cabbage is excellent for making kimchi and other fermented foods.
7. Spring Bulbs: Tulips and Daffodils
Planting spring bulbs in October ensures beautiful blooms in the spring. Use a bulb auger or garden trowel to plant bulbs like tulips and daffodils at the recommended depth, usually about 6 to 8 inches for tulips and 4 to 6 inches for daffodils. Add compost to the planting hole for added nutrients and cover with mulch to protect from frost.
8. Cilantro: A Cool-Season Herb
Cilantro grows best in cool weather and can be succession planted every few weeks. It’s perfect for attracting beneficial insects and pollinators when it bolts. Plant the seeds directly in the garden and keep the soil moist for optimal germination.
9. Pollinator Flowers: Marigolds and Bachelor’s Buttons
Flowers are an essential part of any garden, attracting beneficial insects and adding beauty. Marigolds and bachelor’s buttons are great cool-season flowers that can be direct-seeded into your garden beds. They bloom profusely and help with pest control.
10. Herbs: Thyme and Rosemary
Thyme and rosemary are hardy herbs that thrive in cool weather. Plant them in well-drained soil and provide full sun for best growth. These herbs are perennial in many climates and can provide fresh flavors year-round.
11. Wildflowers for Pollinator Patches
Creating a pollinator patch with native wildflowers is a fantastic way to support local biodiversity. Choose a mix of native species and sow the seeds directly in the soil. Water them well and add mulch to protect the seeds from birds and help retain moisture. This will establish a habitat for pollinators and beneficial insects, ensuring a healthy garden ecosystem.
Conclusion
October is not too late to plant and enjoy a productive garden. Whether you’re planting garlic or spring bulbs, or creating a pollinator patch, there’s still plenty to do to keep your garden thriving. With these 11 crops, you can continue to harvest fresh produce and flowers well into the cooler months.
