What to Plant in Your French Fall/Winter Garden

As fall fades and the cool, crisp air of fall settles in, it's the perfect time to think about your fall garden. Fall gardening offers a unique opportunity to plant crops that thrive in cooler temperatures, ensuring a bountiful harvest. Here’s a guide on what to plant in your French fall garden to make the most of this beautiful season. Certain vegetables grow best in the fall due to a combination of environmental factors and plant biology. Here are the key reasons:

1. Cooler Temperatures

• Reduced Stress: Many vegetables prefer cooler weather, which minimizes heat stress and allows for better growth and development. Cooler temperatures slow down the rate of transpiration, helping plants conserve moisture.

2. Increased Flavor

• Sugar Concentration: Many fall vegetables, like carrots and beets, develop sweeter flavors as cooler temperatures lead to increased sugar accumulation. A light frost can enhance this sweetness even further.

3. Longer Days and Shorter Nights

• Optimal Light Conditions: In early fall, the combination of shorter days and longer nights can promote robust growth in certain crops. The cooler nights help to reduce stress while still providing enough daylight for photosynthesis.

4. Reduced Pest and Disease Pressure

• Fewer Pests: As temperatures drop, many pests and diseases become less active, leading to a decreased risk of infestations. This allows fall crops to thrive without the same level of competition and damage faced during warmer months.

5. Moisture Retention

• Consistent Watering: Fall typically brings more stable moisture levels, with less evaporation and rainfall helping to maintain soil moisture. This is especially beneficial for root vegetables that require consistent moisture for optimal growth.

6. Soil Quality Improvement

• Nutrient-Rich Soil: Fall is a great time to amend the soil with organic matter, improving its structure and nutrient content. Healthy soil supports strong root development and overall plant health.

7. Frost Tolerance

• Hardiness: Many fall vegetables, such as kale, Brussels sprouts, and root vegetables, are frost-tolerant. This means they can continue to grow and produce even after temperatures dip, extending the harvest period.

8. Less Competition

• Decreased Plant Competition: By late summer and early fall, many summer crops have finished their cycle, reducing competition for resources such as light, water, and nutrients.

These factors create an ideal environment for many vegetables to flourish in the fall, allowing gardeners to enjoy fresh, flavorful harvests during this season!

1. Lettuce, Spinach and Salad Greens

Growing salad greens in the fall can be rewarding and delicious! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you successfully cultivate salad greens during this cooler season: 

1. Choose the Right Varieties

Select fast-growing, cool-season greens that thrive in fall temperatures. Some good options include:

• Lettuce (varieties like butterhead, romaine, and looseleaf)

• Spinach

• Arugula

• Kale

• Mustard greens

• Swiss chard

2. Timing

• Planting: In many climates, you can sow seeds in late summer to early fall, typically about 4-6 weeks before your first expected frost. Check local frost dates for guidance.

• Succession Planting: To ensure a continuous harvest, plant seeds every couple of weeks.

3. Prepare the Soil

• Location: Choose a sunny spot with at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.

• Soil Quality: Ensure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. You can amend the soil with compost to enhance fertility.

4. Sow the Seeds

• Direct Sowing: Sow seeds according to the package instructions. Typically, plant them about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep and thinly spaced.

• Spacing: Thin seedlings once they germinate to allow for proper air circulation and growth. Follow specific spacing recommendations for each type of green.

5. Watering

• Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Regular watering is crucial, especially in the early stages of growth.

6. Fertilization

• If your soil is low in nutrients, consider using a balanced, organic fertilizer to support growth.

7. Mulching

• Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain soil temperature.

8. Pest Management

• Watch for pests like aphids and slugs. Hand-picking, neem oil, or insecticidal soap can help manage these issues.

9. Harvesting

• Begin harvesting when the greens reach the desired size. For looseleaf lettuces and other greens, you can use the "cut-and-come-again" method, where you cut the outer leaves and allow the inner leaves to continue growing.

10. Protection from Frost

• If frost is expected, consider covering your plants with row covers, cloches, or blankets to protect them and extend the growing season.

With these steps, you can enjoy a fresh, vibrant salad from your garden well into the fall! Happy gardening!

2. Root Vegetables

Fall is an excellent time to plant root vegetables, which love the cooler soil temperatures:

1. Varieties

• Carrots: Sow seeds directly into well-drained soil. They can be harvested throughout the winter, especially if protected with mulch.

• Radishes: Fast-growing radishes can be planted in late summer or early fall. They are typically ready to harvest in about four weeks.

• Turnips: These hardy vegetables thrive in the fall and can be harvested young or left to grow larger.

• Celery: This vegetable can be grown in the fall, especially in regions with mild winters. 

• Beets: Growing beets in the fall offers several advantages that make it an appealing choice for gardeners to grow this nutrient-rich vegetable.

2. Timing

• When to Plant: Plant root vegetables in late summer to early fall, about 4-6 weeks before the first expected frost date. This allows them to establish roots before winter.

3. Prepare the Soil

• Soil Quality: Root vegetables prefer loose, well-draining soil that allows for easy root growth. Heavy or compacted soil can lead to poor development.

• pH Level: Aim for a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.

• Amendments: Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and structure.

4. Planting Seeds

• Direct Sowing: Root vegetables are typically sown directly in the garden.

  • Depth: Plant seeds according to the specific variety (usually 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep).

  • Spacing: Follow the spacing recommendations for each type (e.g., carrots about 2-3 inches apart, beets about 3-4 inches apart).

5. Watering

• Initial Watering: Water well after planting to help settle the soil around the seeds.

• Consistency: Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate. Once established, root vegetables can tolerate some dryness but still benefit from regular watering.

6. Mulching

• Mulch Application: Apply a layer of organic mulch (such as straw or shredded leaves) to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect roots from frost.

7. Frost Protection

• Row Covers: If frost is expected, use row covers or cloths to protect young seedlings. This can help extend the growing season.

8. Weeding

• Regular Maintenance: Keep the planting area free of weeds, as they can compete for nutrients and water. Hand-pull weeds to avoid disturbing the roots.

9. Harvesting

• Timing: Harvest root vegetables when they reach the desired size.

  • Carrots and beets are usually harvested when they are large enough to eat, while parsnips can be left in the ground until after the first frost for enhanced flavor.

10. Storage

• Post-Harvest: Store harvested root vegetables in a cool, dark place. Many can be stored in damp sand or sawdust to keep them fresh through the winter.

By following these steps, you can successfully plant and grow a variety of root vegetables in the fall, ensuring a tasty harvest! Happy gardening!

3. Garlic & Shallots

Planting garlic & shallots in the fall allows it to establish roots before winter. Choose a sunny spot and plant cloves about 2 inches deep, spacing them a few inches apart. Planting garlic and shallots is a rewarding process that can lead to a bountiful harvest. Here’s a step-by-step guide for each:

Planting Garlic

1. Choose the Right Variety

• Select hardneck or softneck varieties depending on your climate and preferences. Hardneck varieties typically do better in colder regions, while softneck varieties are better for milder climates.

2. Timing

• When to Plant: Garlic is usually planted in the fall, about 4-6 weeks before the ground freezes, or in early spring in milder climates.

3. Prepare the Soil

• Soil Type: Garlic prefers well-draining, loose soil rich in organic matter.

• pH Level: Aim for a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0.

• Amendments: Mix in compost or well-rotted manure to enhance soil fertility.

4. Separate Cloves

• Take your garlic bulb and separate it into individual cloves. Choose the larger, healthier cloves for planting.

5. Planting

• Depth: Plant cloves upright (with the pointy end facing up) about 2-3 inches deep.

• Spacing: Space cloves 6-8 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.

6. Mulching

• Apply a layer of mulch (straw, leaves, or grass clippings) to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

7. Watering

• Water well after planting, but avoid overwatering. Garlic needs consistent moisture, especially during the initial growth phase.

Planting Shallots

1. Choose the Right Variety

• There are several types of shallots, including yellow, red, and gray. Choose a variety that suits your culinary needs.

2. Timing

• When to Plant: Shallots can be planted in the fall (for a summer harvest) or in early spring.

3. Prepare the Soil

• Soil Type: Similar to garlic, shallots prefer well-draining soil rich in organic matter.

• Amendments: Incorporate compost to improve fertility and soil structure.

4. Choose Bulbs

• Select firm, healthy shallot bulbs for planting. Avoid any that are soft or damaged.

5. Planting

• Depth: Plant shallots about 1-2 inches deep with the pointed end facing up.

• Spacing: Space shallots 4-6 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.

6. Mulching

• Apply mulch to help conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

7. Watering

• Water well after planting and keep the soil consistently moist, particularly during dry spells.

Care and Harvesting

• Fertilization: If necessary, apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.

• Weeding: Regularly check for weeds, as they can compete for nutrients and water.

• Harvesting:

  • Garlic: Harvest when the lower leaves turn brown, usually in mid to late summer.

  • Shallots: Harvest when the tops start to yellow and fall over, typically in late summer or early fall.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to growing your own garlic and shallots! Happy gardening!

4. Onions

Fall is also the perfect time to plant onion sets or transplants. Choose short-day varieties if you live in the south, as they will do well in the milder fall temperatures. Onions planted in fall can be harvested in late spring or early summer. Planting fall onions can be a great way to ensure a spring harvest. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Choose the Right Variety

• Types of Onions: When growing onions in the fall, it's important to choose varieties that can thrive in cooler temperatures and establish strong roots before winter. Here are some popular fall onion varieties to consider:

1. Yellow Onions

• Examples: 'Yellow Granex', 'Yellow Sweet Spanish'

• Description: These are versatile onions with a mild flavor, ideal for cooking and eating raw. They store well and are often used in various dishes.

2. Red Onions

• Examples: 'Red Burgundy', 'Red Zeppelin'

• Description: Known for their vibrant color and slightly sweet flavor, red onions are great for salads, salsas, and pickling.

3. White Onions

• Examples: 'White Sweet Spanish', 'Texas Super Sweet'

• Description: White onions have a sharper flavor than yellow onions and are often used in Mexican cuisine and fresh salsas.

4. Green Onions (Scallions)

• Examples: 'Evergreen Hardy', 'Tokyo Long White'

• Description: These are typically grown for their green tops and tender white bulbs. They can be harvested young and are great for garnishing dishes.

5. Storage Onions

• Examples: 'Copra', 'Storage No. 3'

• Description: These varieties are specifically bred for long-term storage. They typically have thicker skins and are excellent for keeping through the winter months.

6. Timing

• When to Plant: Plant onions in the fall about 6-8 weeks before the first expected hard frost. This allows them to establish roots before winter.

7. Prepare the Soil

• Soil Quality: Onions prefer well-draining, loamy soil rich in organic matter.

• pH Level: Aim for a soil pH of 6.0 to 6.8.

• Amendments: Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to enhance soil fertility.

8. Select Sets or Seeds

• Onion Sets: Small bulbs that can be planted directly. They’re convenient and often yield good results.

• Seeds: If using seeds, you may start them indoors before transplanting or sow directly if the variety is suitable.

9. Planting

• Depth: Plant onion sets or seeds about 1-2 inches deep. For sets, ensure that the pointed end is facing up.

• Spacing: Space onion sets about 4-6 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart. If using seeds, thin to about 4-6 inches apart once they germinate.

10. Watering

• Initial Watering: Water well after planting to settle the soil around the bulbs.

• Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, especially during dry spells.

11. Mulching

• Mulch Application: Apply a layer of mulch (like straw or leaves) to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and insulate the soil.

12. Care During Winter

• Protection: In colder climates, consider adding extra mulch or row covers to protect young plants from extreme temperatures.

13. Harvesting

• Timing: Onions are typically ready for harvest in late spring or summer when the tops begin to yellow and fall over.

• Curing: After harvesting, cure onions in a dry, warm place for a few weeks before storing.

By following these steps, you can successfully plant fall onions and enjoy a flavorful harvest in the spring or summer! Happy gardening!

5. Kale and Other Brassicas

Brassicas, also known as cruciferous vegetables, are a group of plants belonging to the family Brassicaceae. They are known for their nutritional value and health benefits. Common characteristics of Brassicas include their unique flower structure, which typically has four petals arranged in a cross shape.In fact, fall is an excellent time to grow these vegetables, as they prefer cooler temperatures and can often develop better flavor after a frost. Here are some Brassicas that are well-suited for fall planting:

1. Choose the Right Varieties:

1. Broccoli: Can be planted in late summer for a fall harvest.

2. Cauliflower: Similar to broccoli, it can be planted in late summer to mature in cooler fall weather.

3. Kale: This hardy leafy green can be sown in late summer or early fall and will continue to grow through the winter in many climates.

4. Brussels Sprouts: They can be planted in the spring or late summer for a fall harvest, as they improve in flavor after frost.

5. Cabbage: Can be planted in late summer for a fall harvest, with some varieties specifically bred for cool-season growing.

6. Collard Greens: These greens thrive in cool weather and can be planted in late summer for fall and winter harvests.

7. Bok Choy: This fast-growing Brassica can be planted in late summer or early fall for a quick harvest.

8. Radishes: While not a leafy Brassica, they are related and can be planted in fall for a quick turnaround.

These Brassicas can provide delicious and nutritious harvests during the cooler months, making them a great choice for fall gardening! Planting Brassicas (cruciferous vegetables) can be a rewarding addition to your garden. Here’s a detailed guide to help you grow them successfully:

2. Timing

• Spring Planting: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date, or sow seeds directly outdoors 2-4 weeks before the last frost.

• Fall Planting: Sow seeds directly outdoors in late summer to early fall, 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost.

3. Soil Preparation

• Soil Quality: Brassicas prefer well-draining, loamy soil rich in organic matter.

• pH Level: Aim for a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.5.

• Amendments: Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility. A balanced fertilizer can also be beneficial.

4. Planting Seeds or Transplants

• Direct Sowing: If sowing seeds directly, plant them about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep and thin them to allow for proper spacing once they germinate.

• Transplanting: If starting indoors, transplant seedlings when they are about 4-6 inches tall, spacing them according to the specific variety (typically 12-18 inches apart).

5. Watering

• Initial Watering: Water well after planting to settle the soil around the seeds or transplants.

• Consistency: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the germination and early growth phases. Brassicas prefer even moisture.

6. Mulching

• Mulch Application: Apply a layer of organic mulch (such as straw or shredded leaves) to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

7. Pest Management

• Common Pests: Watch for pests like aphids, cabbage worms, and slugs. Use row covers to protect young plants or apply organic pest control methods as needed.

• Companion Planting: Consider planting herbs like dill or marigolds nearby to deter pests.

8. Fertilization

• Nutrients: Brassicas are heavy feeders, so consider applying a balanced fertilizer or side-dressing with compost every few weeks during the growing season.

9. Harvesting

• Timing: Harvest Brassicas at the right time for each type. For example:

  • Broccoli: Cut heads before flowers open.

  • Cauliflower: Harvest when the head is compact and before it begins to separate.

  • Kale and Collard Greens: Pick outer leaves as needed for a continuous harvest.

10. Storage and Preservation

• Post-Harvest: Store harvested Brassicas in a cool, humid environment. Many can also be blanched and frozen for later use.

By following these steps, you can successfully plant and grow a variety of Brassicas in your garden! Enjoy your gardening experience!

6. Herbs

Fall is a great time to plant certain herbs, especially in milder climates. Here are some herbs that thrive when planted in the fall:

1. Choose the Right Varieties:

1. Chives: These hardy perennials can be planted in the fall and will come back in the spring.

2. Thyme: This low-maintenance herb is well-suited for fall planting and can survive colder temperatures.

3. Oregano: Another hardy perennial, oregano can be planted in the fall and will flourish in the spring.

4. Parsley: Biennial parsley can be sown in the fall, and although it might go dormant in winter, it will regrow in spring.

5. Cilantro: This herb can be planted in the fall for a fall harvest, as it prefers cooler temperatures.

6. Sage: A hardy perennial, sage can be planted in the fall and will continue to thrive in cooler weather.

7. Mint: Fast-growing and hardy, mint can be planted in the fall, but it’s best to keep it in containers to control its spread.

8. Rosemary: In milder climates, rosemary can be planted in the fall, though it may need protection in harsher winters.

9. Dill: Yes, dill can be grown in the fall, especially in milder climates. It prefers cooler temperatures and can thrive in the fall as long as the conditions are right.

2. Timing

• When to Plant: In many regions, you can plant herbs in early fall, about 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost. In warmer areas, some herbs can be planted throughout the fall.

3. Prepare the Soil

• Soil Quality: Choose well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Herbs prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.0 to 7.0).

• Amendments: Mix in compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.

4. Planting

• Seeds vs. Transplants: You can either sow seeds directly into the garden or plant young transplants from a nursery.

  • For Seeds: Follow the seed packet instructions for depth and spacing (usually about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep).

  • For Transplants: Space them according to the specific herb's needs (generally 6-12 inches apart).

5. Watering

• Initial Watering: Water the herbs well after planting to help settle the soil around the roots.

• Consistency: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging.

6. Mulching

• Mulch Application: Apply a layer of organic mulch (such as straw or leaves) to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

7. Protection from Frost

• Row Covers: Use row covers or cloches to protect young herbs from frost. This can help extend the growing season.

• Containers: If growing in pots, consider bringing them indoors or into a greenhouse during extreme cold spells.

8. Pruning and Harvesting

• Pruning: Regularly pinch back or prune herbs to encourage bushy growth and prevent them from flowering too soon.

• Harvesting: Harvest herbs as needed. For most herbs, you can cut leaves as long as you leave enough for the plant to continue growing.

9. Fertilization

• Nutrients: Most herbs don’t require heavy fertilization, but you can apply a balanced organic fertilizer if needed, especially if the soil is low in nutrients.

10. Enjoying Your Harvest

• Culinary Uses: Fresh herbs can enhance many dishes. You can also dry or freeze excess herbs for later use.

By following these steps, you can successfully grow a variety of herbs in the fall and enjoy their flavors throughout the season! Happy gardening!

8. Potatoes:

Planting potatoes in the fall can be a bit unconventional since most gardeners plant them in the spring. However, with the right conditions, it is possible to grow potatoes for an early spring harvest or to prepare them for winter storage. Here’s a guide to help you plant potatoes in the fall:

1. Choose the Right Varieties

Select early-maturing potato varieties, as these are more likely to yield a good crop before the frost sets in. Good options include:

• Red Bliss

• Yukon Gold

• Early White

2. Timing

• When to Plant: In most regions, you should plant potatoes about 4-6 weeks before the first expected hard frost. This allows the plants to establish themselves before winter.

3. Prepare the Soil

• Soil Quality: Potatoes prefer loose, well-draining soil rich in organic matter.

• pH Level: Aim for a soil pH of 5.8 to 7.0.

• Amendments: Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility.

4. Seed Potatoes

• Selecting Seed Potatoes: Use certified seed potatoes rather than store-bought potatoes to avoid disease.

• Cutting: If using larger seed potatoes, cut them into pieces, ensuring each piece has at least one "eye" (a budding area).

5. Planting

• Depth: Plant seed potatoes about 4-6 inches deep.

• Spacing: Space them about 12 inches apart in rows that are 2-3 feet apart.

• Orientation: Place the cut side down (if cut) and the eyes facing up.

6. Watering

• Initial Watering: Water well after planting to help settle the soil.

• Consistency: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Potatoes need even moisture for optimal growth.

7. Mulching

• Apply Mulch: Add a layer of organic mulch (like straw or shredded leaves) to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the plants from frost.

8. Frost Protection

• Row Covers: If frost is expected, use row covers or cloches to protect young plants. This helps to extend the growing season.

9. Harvesting

• Timing: If you’re planting in the fall for spring harvest, wait until the tops die back and the skin of the potatoes is firm before harvesting.

• Storage: Cure harvested potatoes in a cool, dark place for a few weeks to allow the skins to toughen up for better storage.

10. Considerations for Winter

• Mulching: If you leave potatoes in the ground for winter, ensure they are well-mulched to protect them from freezing temperatures.

• Fall Planting in Warm Climates: In warmer regions, you can plant in late summer or early fall for a late fall or winter harvest.

By following these steps, you can successfully plant potatoes in the fall and enjoy a rewarding harvest.

8. Cover Crops

While not for eating, cover crops like clover, vetch, and rye can be planted in the fall to improve soil health. They help prevent erosion, suppress weeds, and add nutrients to the soil when turned under in spring.

Conclusion

Fall gardening is a rewarding way to extend your growing season. Mirepoix is a foundational mixture used in cooking, particularly in French cuisine, consisting primarily of diced onions, carrots, and celery which is perfect to start in the fall and is used as the base of a wide range of classic culinary dishes. By planting the right crops, you can enjoy fresh produce throughout the cooler months and set the stage for a flourishing garden in the spring. So grab your tools, plan your plots, and embrace the beauty of fall gardening! Happy planting!