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While most people associate planting with the warmth of spring, the secret to vibrant spring blooms and fresh vegetables often starts in the fall. Despite cooler temperatures, fall presents an excellent opportunity to grow hardy greens and beautiful flowers that will flourish when spring rolls around. Whether you’re looking to enhance your garden or add color to your home with container plants, planting in October offers plenty of possibilities. Here are some of the best vegetables and flowers to plant this fall.

Vegetables to Plant in October

Kale:
Kale thrives in cooler weather, and fall planting is perfect for producing a bountiful harvest. Depending on your region, plant kale six to eight weeks before the first fall frost. When the leaves are about the size of your hand, it’s time to harvest. Kale’s robust flavor is a great addition to many recipes, from smoothies to salads.

fleshly harvested organic Elephant Garlic Allium ampeloprasum at summer kitchen garden allotment.

Garlic:
October is an ideal time to plant garlic, giving it enough time to establish roots before the winter freeze. Plant garlic in a sunny spot that receives six to eight hours of sunlight daily. This makes the cloves grow strong, producing a flavorful garlic harvest in late spring or early summer.

Arugula:
For gardeners in warmer climates, arugula can be planted in October and will yield young leaves within six to eight weeks. The tender, peppery leaves are best harvested when they are young. Older leaves are tough, so pick them early for the best flavor.

Shallots:
Shallots, like garlic and onions, are part of the Allium family. They grow best in warmer fall climates, with soil temperatures ranging between 35 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Plant shallot cloves in the soil with the tops peeking out. They will be ready for harvest after about 90 days when their tops turn brown.

Peas:
Peas thrive in cooler weather and easily grow during the fall months. If you live in a warmer area, plant peas in October in nutrient-rich soil, spacing seeds two inches apart. Peas prefer plenty of sunlight, which makes them sweeter and even more delicious when harvested.

Flowers to Plant in October

Tulips:
Tulips are the quintessential spring flower, but fall is the time to plant their bulbs. The cool fall nights, with temperatures between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit, help tulips establish roots that will support beautiful spring blooms. Avoid planting in overly moist soil, as it can cause the bulbs to rot.

Daffodils:
New to gardening? Daffodils are an excellent choice for beginner gardeners. These hardy flowers can be planted two to four weeks before the first frost. Daffodils bloom beautifully in early spring but should be kept away from other flowers in a vase, as they secrete a liquid that can cause wilting.

Pansies:
With their vibrant “faces,” pansies are perfect for container gardens or windowsills. Pansies prefer partial sunlight and regular watering. If they look droopy, they likely need more water, so ensure their soil stays moist but not waterlogged.

Flowering Cherry Tree:
Though known for their spring blooms, flowering cherry trees should be planted in early fall to establish roots. Plant them in a sunny, wind-sheltered area to ensure the best growth and avoid exposure to harsh winter weather.

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