Last Call for Autumn Planting: Cold-Weather Crops to Kickstart Your Spring Harvest

With November marking the end of autumn, now is your last chance to plant delicious ingredients to get them ready for next year’s harvest.

As you can imagine, however, the chillier climate can make this hobby a little trickier. This means it’s essential to only raise items built for the season. Here are a few for you to consider.

Brassicas: Cabbages, broccoli and cauliflower

Brassicas are cool-weather staples as they tend to handle frost well, making them resilient during early cold snaps. Broccoli and cauliflower are nutrient-rich, and when planted now, they can mature in spring for a generous harvest. Cabbages are also relatively hardy and can withstand sub-zero temperatures. They’re heavy feeders, so enrich the soil with compost and use a net to protect them from pigeons, caterpillars and other common pests.

Alliums: Onions, shallots and garlic

These crops are ideal for this season, and you’ll find that autumn planting garlic does particularly well. This is because it thrives before winter sets in, allowing the roots to develop ahead of the spring growth spurt, leading to larger bulbs.

Onions and shallots can be started now, too, and may be ready for early summer harvesting. Choose hardy types for the best results and ensure you have well-drained soil, as these foods dislike sitting in waterlogged patches.

Leafy greens: Spinach, kale and chard

These popular green vegetables are nutrient-dense and versatile for various recipes.

Spinach and kale are easy to sow directly in the ground, and they will continue producing leaves until the harshest cold arrives. Chard can deal with mild frosts and grows efficiently with proper mulching.

For maximum yield, pick leaves regularly from the outer edges, and consider a few varieties to enjoy a mix of textures and flavours in salads, soups and stir-fries.

Root vegetables: Carrots, beetroot and turnips

Root veg are superb choices, especially quick-growing types that mature before the ground freezes. Carrots are known to be one of the easiest crops to produce and love sandy, well-drained soil. Turnips and beetroot, however, are a bit more forgiving and even prefer slightly heavy compost, which helps them retain moisture.

Thin seedlings to allow room for each plant, ensuring healthier and larger roots. If you’re looking to store these vegetables, leave them in the ground until needed, as they naturally keep fresh for longer.

Herbs: Coriander, parsley and mint

Herbs can transform any dish, and some can grow well in cooler months. Coriander and parsley are excellent choices and can tolerate lower temperatures, especially when covered during frost. Mint matures best in a contained area, as it spreads quickly.

All three can be raised in pots or beds, which you can bring indoors or cover to protect them from the cold. Freshly picked herbs are perfect for stews, soups and casseroles, adding vibrance to seasonal meals.