What Should I Plant In The Fall?

“I live in Portland, Oregon, and I’m new to backyard farming. With fall approaching, I’m unsure what crops to plant that will thrive in cooler weather. I want to make the most out of my small garden. Can you suggest some crops and provide tips to get started with fall planting?” Cheers, Alice, Portland, USA.

What Should I Plant In Fall?

Fall is a fantastic time to plant a variety of cool-weather crops that will thrive as the temperatures begin to drop. Not only can you get a fresh batch of veggies on your table, but fall planting can also help prepare your garden for the following growing season. Let’s discuss some must-plant crops and useful tips for a bountiful fall harvest.

Understanding Your Growing Zone

First things first, it’s important to know your growing zone. In your case, Alice, Portland, Oregon is in USDA hardiness zones 8b and 9a. This means your winters can get fairly mild, giving you a wider selection of fall crops that will do well. Knowing your specific zone helps you understand the average first frost date, which is critical for timing your planting correctly.

Key Vegetables to Plant in Fall

Cool-weather crops generally thrive and produce better yields in the fall. Here are some excellent choices:

• Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, Swiss chard, and various lettuces do wonderfully in cooler weather. Spinach, for example, flourishes in cool temperatures and can even withstand frost. Kale also becomes sweeter after a light frost, making it an excellent fall crop.
• Root Vegetables: Carrots, beets, radishes, and turnips all do very well in the fall. Carrots and beets can be planted about 10-12 weeks before the expected first frost. Radishes mature rapidly, often in just 25-30 days, making them a quick win for fall gardens.
• Brassicas: Cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are a bit more cold-tolerant and can handle frosty conditions. If started early, they can be ready for harvest before heavy freezes set in.
• Garlic: Planting garlic in the fall allows it to establish roots before the ground freezes, leading to robust growth when spring arrives. Garlic cloves should be planted a few weeks before the first frost date in your area.
• Onions and Shallots: Like garlic, onions and shallots are usually planted in the fall. They need a long growing season and benefit greatly from being overwintered.

Preparing the Soil

A rich, well-prepared soil can make all the difference for your fall garden. Here’s how to get your soil ready:

1. Clear out any remaining summer crops and debris.
2. Add a generous amount of compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil. This will give your plants a nutrient boost as they start their growth.
3. Conduct a soil pH test if possible. Most fall vegetables prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH (between 6.0 and 7.0).
4. Work the compost and any necessary soil amendments thoroughly into the top 6-8 inches of soil.
5. Ensure good drainage by loosening the soil and removing rocks or clumps. Proper drainage is essential for preventing root rot, especially with cooler temperatures and potential rainfall.

Planting Timelines

Timing is a significant factor for a successful fall harvest. Here are some general guidelines:

• Count Backwards: From your area’s expected first frost date, count backward the days to maturity listed on the seed packet of each crop to determine the last possible planting date. For instance, if a vegetable takes 60 days to mature and your first frost date is November 15, plant by September 16.
• Quick-Maturing Crops: For fast-growing vegetables like radishes and leaf lettuce, you can continue planting successively every couple of weeks until mid-fall.
• Cold-Hardy Varieties: Certain varieties of vegetables are bred to withstand colder temperatures. Choose these for extended harvesting periods.

Extending the Growing Season

To maximize your fall harvest, consider techniques for extending the growing season:

1. Row Covers: Lightweight fabric covers can protect plants from frost and help retain warmth.
2. Cold Frames and Greenhouses: These structures offer more substantial frost protection and can be used to grow vegetables well into winter.
3. Mulching: A thick layer of organic mulch can help insulate the soil, keeping roots warmer and extending the growing season by a few weeks.

Watering and Care

Caring for fall vegetables is slightly different from summer gardening. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Monitor the Weather: While fall often brings more rain, it’s essential to ensure your plants receive about an inch of water per week. Be cautious of overwatering, especially in cooler, wetter conditions.
• Fertilize Sparingly: Fall crops generally need less fertilization than summer plants. A light feeding when planting and another mid-season should suffice.
• Watch for Pests: As temperatures drop, some pests may become less active, but it’s still essential to keep an eye out for slugs, aphids, and caterpillars, which can thrive in cooler weather.

Benefits of Fall Planting

Gardening in the fall brings its own unique set of advantages:

• Pest Control: Many pests die off or become inactive as the temperature drops, resulting in less damage to crops.
• Flavor and Quality: Cool temperatures often improve the flavor and texture of vegetables, making them sweeter and crisper.
• Soil Health: Planting cover crops like clover or rye can improve soil structure and fertility, benefiting your garden in the long run.
• Continuous Harvest: With proper planning, you can maintain a steady supply of fresh produce well into the colder months.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even seasoned gardeners can make mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Planting Too Late: Ensure ample time for your crops to mature before the first frost.
• Ignoring Soil Preparation: Fall vegetables need nutrient-rich soil just as much as summer crops. Don’t skip amending the soil.
• Overcrowding: Give your plants enough space to grow. Overcrowded plants can become stunted and more susceptible to disease.
• Underwatering: Even though the weather is cooler, your plants still need consistent moisture.
• Neglecting Frost Protection: Be prepared with row covers or mulch to protect against unexpected early frosts.

Following these guidelines, you should have a prosperous fall garden, even if you’re just starting out. Enjoy the process of learning and seeing your garden evolve throughout the seasons, Alice!

Final Thoughts…

Embracing fall planting can open up a world of gardening possibilities and keep your backyard farm productive year-round. Remember to prepare your soil, choose cool-weather crops, and provide adequate protection against frost. Alice, best of luck with your autumn gardening! It’s wonderful to see your enthusiasm for backyard farming, and thank you for inspiring this deep dive into fall planting.