Just because summer is winding down doesn’t mean your garden has to! In fact, late summer is the perfect time to plant cool-weather crops that thrive in the crisp days of fall. With the right timing and a little prep, you can enjoy fresh veggies well into the cooler months.

Here are 5 of my favorite fall crops to plant in late summer—plus tips for getting the best harvest!

🥬 1. Leafy Greens (Lettuce, Spinach, Arugula)

Cool-weather greens are super fast to grow and love chilly nights. Most varieties mature in 30–45 days, making them perfect for quick fall harvests.

Tips:

• Plant in partial shade if temps are still high
• Water consistently to prevent bolting
• Harvest outer leaves often to encourage regrowth

🥕 2. Carrots

Carrots actually get sweeter after a light frost! Sow seeds directly in loose, well-drained soil in mid to late summer for a fall harvest.

Tips:

• Keep the soil consistently moist while seeds germinate (7–14 days)
• Thin seedlings to give roots space to grow
• Harvest when tops are ½–¾ inch across

🧅 3. Green Onions (Scallions)

If you want quick results, green onions are your best friend. They’re ready in about 30–60 days and tolerate light frosts well.

Tips:

• Plant closely together and harvest young for tender stalks
• Great for containers or raised beds

🥦 4. Broccoli

Broccoli loves cooler temps and performs best when planted in late summer for fall maturing. Start seeds indoors 6 weeks before your first frost, or buy transplants for easier success.

Tips:

• Give it space to grow—1.5 to 2 feet apart
• Mulch to keep roots cool and moist
• Harvest heads before flowers bloom

🥬 5. Kale

Kale is incredibly cold-hardy and can survive into early winter. In fact, frost improves its flavor! It’s also cut-and-come-again, meaning you can harvest outer leaves and it’ll keep producing.

Tips:

• Plant from seed or transplants
• Protect from cabbage worms with netting or row covers
• Use in salads, sautés, and soups

🧤 Bonus Tip: Know Your First Frost Date

To time your fall plantings, count backward from your average first frost date using the “days to maturity” listed on your seed packets. Most fall crops need to be in the ground 6–10 weeks before frost.

🧺 Final Thoughts

Don’t pack up your garden tools just yet! Late summer is a golden window for planting cool-season crops that will extend your harvest and keep your pantry full.

Happy planting! 🌿
– Taylor @ Thyme At Home