Despite the heat wave this week, fall has officially arrived. As the trees begin to change color and temperatures hopefully cool down, it’s a great time to get outside and garden. The Bay Area is an ideal place for fall planting, thanks to its USDA hardiness zones nine and ten. Here, gardeners don’t have to worry about ground freezes that can harm winter seedlings in colder climates. Below are some of the best plants to sow in your fall garden in the coming months.
1. Garlic
Garlic is a favorite for many, thanks to its culinary uses and ability to repel insects (and even vampires). It is also easy to grow. Just plant a clove of garlic in the fall, cover it with soil, and enjoy your harvest in the summer. However, most garlic sold in stores is treated and may not grow well in your garden. Instead, buy planting cloves from a garden supply store. Garlic thrives in full sun and requires little watering once established. Onions can also be planted in the fall, so consider planting them together to enhance your pasta dishes.
2. Beets
Beets are a versatile crop. You can enjoy their tasty red roots and mild green tops. They can also serve as a natural dye and are a healthier alternative to artificial coloring. In hardiness zones nine and above, beets can be planted in mid-to-late fall for winter harvesting. Like garlic, they prefer full sun and need at least six hours of sunlight each day. For faster germination, soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting. Other root vegetables, such as carrots, can also be sown during this time.
3. Cabbage
Leafy greens are among the best crops to grow, and cabbage is a prime choice. Cabbage belongs to the cole crop family, which includes vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, collards, and kale. You can plant cabbage from late October to early September for a winter harvest. While cabbage can be a bit challenging to grow due to pests and its need for consistent watering, the effort pays off. Once harvested, you can use fresh cabbage to make kimchi or creamy coleslaw.
4. Spring Bulbs
If you want to plant something other than vegetables, now is the perfect time for spring bulbs. Popular choices include tulips, alliums, narcissus, freesia, and paperwhites. Some bulbs need to be stored in the refrigerator until it’s time to plant them. Once they sprout, you can enjoy a vibrant bloom in your garden come spring.
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