If you’re planning on having fresh fall and winter vegetables in your Seattle, WA garden, the time to start planning is coming up. Most people don’t realize that the best time to plant later crops in western Washington is during the summer, which might interfere with your summer harvest. Working out a schedule for year-round planting will ensure that your garden produces delicious results no matter the season.
Planning for fall and winter crops
Naturally, plants that can survive the cool fall and winter temperatures are more limited than spring and summer plants, but there are still plenty to try. When you’re deciding what to grow, consider whether they can handle multiple frosts, like spinach, which means they can be planted and grown later in the year.
How long the plants take to germinate and mature will also determine when you plant them. If they have a longer lifespan, like broccoli and cabbage, you’ll need to plant them in late summer. For shorter lifespan plants, such as radishes and lettuces, you can plant them in late August through September.
Tips for your fall and winter garden
Experts suggest starting your fall and winter crops in the warmest, sunniest spot in your garden. Consider the protection the plants will have against inclement weather when choosing a spot. Temporary shades can be erected to keep the soil moist enough for germination, then removed when the temperatures start dropping. Composting and light daily watering through the summer will protect your seeds as they begin to grow.
When choosing crops, consult professionals at your local nursery or home and garden store to make sure you’re purchasing the right variety of plants. Some vegetables, like lettuces, have both fall and spring varieties. If you choose the spring variety, it simply won’t grow as well as its autumnal counterpart.
Root vegetables like onions, beets, radishes and carrots do well in fall and winter, similar to hearty greens such as kale, swiss chard and spinach. Broccoli and cauliflower can also thrive in the cooler temperatures.
With careful planning and the right timing, you should be able to harvest plants from your garden all year long. It can be difficult to start them in late summer, however, particularly if you’re out of the area on vacation. If you have trouble getting your plants to flourish, consider mulching your garden beds in October and planting garlic instead. Seattle weather requires patience and flexibility, but it can produce some great results for your veggie garden.
Plant your fall and winter vegetable garden in Seattle, WA
If you need help deciding which gardening supplies you need, Stewart Lumber & Hardware Co. can help. Our friendly team will help you find the plants you want to grow and the soil, fertilizer and tools you need to make it happen. We’re happy to give you advice about growing fall and winter vegetables in western Washington, or anything else you’re interested in planting. Call or stop by today for more assistance. We look forward to meeting you soon!