Discover 13 fast-growing vegetable perfect for your fall garden! Learn expert tips on planting times, soil prep, and care for a bountiful autumn harvest. Ideal for gardeners of all levels.
Fall gardening offers a second chance to enjoy fresh, homegrown vegetable before winter sets in. These 13 fast-growing crops can be planted in late summer or early fall and harvested within 4-8 weeks, depending on your climate. Key vegetables include leafy greens, root crops, and cool-season favorites that thrive in autumn’s milder temperatures.
Hey there, fellow gardeners! I’m Tom, and I’ve been cultivating fall gardens for over 20 years. Let me share my top picks for fast-growing veggies that’ll give you a bountiful autumn harvest. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh fall produce!
1. Arugula (Rocket)
- Days to maturity: 21-40 days
- Arugula is a peppery leafy green that’s perfect for salads
- Sow seeds directly in the garden every 2-3 weeks for continuous harvest
2. Radishes
- Days to maturity: 21-30 days
- One of the fastest-growing vegetables
- Choose varieties like ‘Cherry Belle’ or ‘French Breakfast’ for quick results
3. Spinach
- Days to maturity: 30-45 days
- Thrives in cooler temperatures
- Rich in nutrients and versatile in the kitchen
4. Lettuce
- Days to maturity: 30-60 days (depending on variety)
- Choose loose-leaf varieties for quickest harvest
- Succession planting ensures a continuous supply
5. Turnips
- Days to maturity: 30-60 days
- Both roots and greens are edible
- ‘Tokyo Cross’ is a fast-maturing variety
6. Kale
- Days to maturity: 50-65 days
- Extremely cold-hardy
- Becomes sweeter after light frost
7. Mustard Greens
- Days to maturity: 30-40 days
- Spicy flavor that mellows when cooked
- Harvest young leaves for milder taste
8. Beets
- Days to maturity: 50-60 days
- Both roots and greens are edible
- ‘Early Wonder’ is a good variety for fall planting
9. Bok Choy (Pak Choi)
- Days to maturity: 45-50 days
- Asian green that’s great in stir-fries
- Choose ‘Baby Bok Choy’ varieties for faster harvest
10. Swiss Chard
- Days to maturity: 50-60 days
- Colorful stems add visual interest to the garden
- Continues producing until hard frost
11. Carrots
- Days to maturity: 50-60 days (for baby carrots)
- Choose shorter varieties like ‘Paris Market’ for quicker harvest
- Sweeten with fall’s cooler temperatures
12. Kohlrabi
- Days to maturity: 45-60 days
- Unique vegetable with a crisp, mild flavor
- ‘Early White Vienna’ is a fast-growing variety
13. Peas
- Days to maturity: 60-70 days
- Choose snow or snap peas for edible pods
- ‘Sugar Ann’ is a quick-maturing snap pea variety
Tips for Successful Fall Gardening
To ensure a bountiful harvest, keep these tips in mind:
- Calculate planting dates: Use your area’s average first frost date to plan backwards for planting times.
- Prepare soil: Amend soil with compost to replenish nutrients after summer crops.
- Provide adequate water: Consistent moisture is crucial for seed germination and young plants.
- Use season extenders: Cold frames or row covers can protect crops from early frosts.
- Watch for pests: Keep an eye out for cabbage worms and aphids, which can be common in fall gardens.
Conclusion
Fall gardening is a fantastic way to extend your growing season and enjoy fresh, homegrown vegetables well into autumn. These 13 fast-growing crops are perfect for gardeners looking to make the most of the cooler months. Remember, timing is key in fall gardening, so plan your plantings carefully based on your local climate.
Happy fall gardening, and may your autumn harvests be bountiful!
For more gardening tips and plant care guides, visit usagardenhub.com.
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