How to Plant a Fall Garden

If you are lucky enough to live in a warm climate zone then when Fall arrives you have a second growing season besides Spring.  I have lived in the desert and gardened since I was a young girl.  These tips are based on my knowledge of gardening here in the desert of Las Vegas.  Here are some tips to remember when planting your Fall Garden.

~ You will get a sweeter crop in the Fall due to photosynthesis producing a sweeter carbohydrate at this time.
~  Fall planting is better because it's warmer when starting the seedlings so they sprout faster.
~  Plant your Fall Garden between August 15 and October 15
~ You can space your plantings out every 2 weeks to have a constant crop.
~ After the first frost many plants don't grow well until February
~  Many herbs and some vegetables will grow year round.
~ First frost is usually November 11 so plant early to avoid any freeze, many plants can handle a mild frost
~ If you want a bigger and better cabbage in the Spring, now is the time to plant it.
~ Fruit trees (or any tree) and bulbs should be planted now too so they can get a better start for Spring.
 ~I have found that for small vegetables and herbs that they are protected when grown in pots near the house during cold months. 

Here is a list of vegetables good for Fall planting.

Artichoke, Asparagus, Beet, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Carrots (short fat variety do better), Cauliflower, Celery, Chard-Swiss, Chives, Collard, Endive, Garlic, Horseradish, Kale, Kohlrabi, Leek, Lettuce (head and leaf), Mustard, Onions (dry and green), Parsley, Parsnips, Peas, Potatoes (Irish), Radish, Rutabaga, Spinach, Turnips

Here is a list of herbs good for Fall planting, that will last all Winter.

Bay Leaves, Chives, Germander, Lavendar, Mint, Rosemary, Sage, Tarragon, Thyme, Winter Marjoram


Do you live in a warm winter zone?  Have you ever planted a Fall garden?  What plants did the best for you?