Most gardeners put down their trowels in August. That's a mistake. August and early September are prime planting time for a fall garden that produces through November — and into December in milder zones.
The Fall Planting Calendar
Count backward from your first expected fall frost date. Most cool-season crops need 40–60 days to mature. If your first frost is October 15, you need to plant by August 15–September 1.
Best Fall Crops
- Kale: Flavor improves after frost. Plant 8 weeks before first frost.
- Broccoli and cauliflower: Start indoors in July for transplant in August.
- Spinach and lettuce: Direct sow 6–8 weeks before first frost. Use succession plantings.
- Root vegetables: Carrots, beets, and radishes need 50–70 days. Sow in early August.
- Garlic: Plant garlic cloves in October for harvest next July — the fall garden's longest-term investment.
Extending the Season with Row Covers
A lightweight floating row cover (Agribon AG-19) adds 4–6°F of frost protection and lets you harvest kale, spinach, and arugula until Thanksgiving in zones 5–6. Weight the edges with rocks or staple to wooden hoops. Remove during warm spells to avoid overheating.
