Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean it’s too late to plant—far from it. In fact, now is the perfect time to get a second wave of fruits and veggies growing that’ll reward you with a delicious late fall harvest.
Many crops actually prefer the cooler weather that comes after the heat of summer. Root vegetables, leafy greens, and even some fast-maturing fruits thrive when planted now and harvested in September, October, or even early November.
These 18 fruits and veggies don’t need perfect timing—just a little planning and a few spare garden beds (or containers). If you want to keep the fresh produce coming long after summer fades, these are the ones to plant today.
Kale
Kale, a leafy green with a rich history, thrives in cooler temperatures. Its sturdy leaves hold up well in fall gardens, offering a nutrient-rich addition to meals. Plant it now to enjoy its earthy flavor in salads and soups.
Known for its resilience, kale can even withstand a light frost, which sweetens its taste. This vegetable’s deep green hue is both visually appealing and a sign of its rich vitamin content.
Whether you’re a fan of curly or dinosaur kale, planting this vegetable ensures a nutritious harvest.
Radishes
Radishes are the epitome of quick gratification in the garden. Plant these peppery roots now, and they’ll be ready to adorn your salads within weeks.
Their vibrant red and purple hues add a splash of color to any dish, and their crisp texture provides a delightful contrast. Radishes thrive in cooler weather, ensuring a successful harvest.
From classic red to the visually striking watermelon variety, these small roots are a gardener’s delight, offering both beauty and bite.
Spinach
Spinach is a cool-weather staple, perfect for planting as temperatures drop. Its tender leaves offer a mild flavor that’s incredibly versatile in the kitchen.
Known for its rapid growth, spinach can be harvested multiple times, providing a continuous supply of greens. Its deep green color is a testament to its high iron and vitamin content.
Whether tossed in salads or blended into smoothies, spinach is a powerhouse in a small package, making it a favorite among home gardeners.
Carrots
Carrots, with their sweet, earthy flavor, are a must for fall planting. These roots develop their best taste when grown in cool conditions.
The variety in color, from traditional orange to striking purples and yellows, makes them a colorful addition to any table. Carrots require little attention once established.
As they mature, their sweetness intensifies, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. Plant now to enjoy their crunch throughout the fall.
Garlic
Garlic is the unsung hero of the garden, offering robust flavor to countless dishes. Plant individual cloves now for a harvest next summer.
Its growth begins beneath the soil as the weather cools, setting roots that will thrive come spring. This bulb requires patience but rewards with its unmistakable aroma.
In addition to culinary uses, garlic is famed for its health benefits, making it a staple in kitchens worldwide. A must-plant for any serious gardener.
Lettuce
Lettuce, with its crisp, refreshing leaves, is ideal for fall planting. This versatile green thrives in the cooler temperatures of autumn.
From romaine to butterhead, lettuce varieties offer a range of textures and flavors, perfect for all taste preferences. Quick to grow, it can be harvested multiple times.
A staple in salads, wraps, and sandwiches, lettuce brings both nutrition and a touch of elegance to your meals. Plant now for a continual harvest of fresh greens.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a garden favorite, known for its rich nutrient profile. Plant it now to enjoy its thick, crunchy heads during the cooler months.
This vegetable thrives in the crisp autumn air, developing its best flavor when grown in chillier conditions. Its deep green color signals its vitamin-packed nature.
Whether roasted, steamed, or raw, broccoli is a versatile addition to any meal, offering a satisfying crunch and a wealth of health benefits.
Beets
Beets bring a burst of color and flavor to your fall garden. These roots thrive in cooler temperatures, offering a sweet, earthy taste.
The vibrant red and golden hues of beets make them a visually striking addition to dishes. They’re as nutritious as they are beautiful, packed with essential vitamins.
Whether roasted, pickled, or raw, beets add variety and depth to meals. Planting them now ensures a vibrant harvest later in the season.
Turnips
Turnips are an often-overlooked gem in the garden, offering a peppery punch that’s perfect for fall dishes. Their roots and greens are both edible, doubling their culinary value.
These hardy vegetables thrive in cooler conditions, making them ideal for autumn planting. Their pale purple and white bulbs are a delightful sight.
From stews to salads, turnips provide a versatile ingredient that enhances the flavors of seasonal meals. Plant them now for a robust harvest.
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts evoke love or loathing, but their nutritional benefits are undeniable. Plant them now to enjoy their crisp, nutty flavor during the fall.
These mini cabbages grow best in cooler weather, forming tight, green heads that are perfect for roasting or steaming. Patient gardeners are rewarded with a bountiful harvest.
Whether you’re a fan of these sprouts or new to their charms, they offer a distinctive taste and texture to your autumn menu.
Swiss Chard
Swiss chard, with its radiant stems and large leaves, is both a garden and culinary star. Plant it in the fall to enjoy its mild taste and robust texture.
This leafy green is adaptable to various dishes, bringing both color and nutrition. Known for its resilience, Swiss chard grows well into the cooler months.
Whether sautéed or added to stews and soups, it offers a hearty addition to meals. A standout choice for those seeking both beauty and substance in their garden.
Peas
Peas offer a sweet taste of spring, even in the fall garden. Plant them now to enjoy their tender pods and vibrant green vines.
These legumes thrive in cool weather, quickly climbing supports with delicate tendrils, providing both beauty and bounty. Fresh peas are a treat in any dish.
From soups to salads, their fresh, sweet flavor is a delight. Whether you’re planting snap, snow, or shelling peas, they promise a productive and tasty addition to your garden.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower, with its mild, nutty flavor, is a versatile addition to the fall garden. Plant it now to enjoy during the cooler months.
This cruciferous vegetable thrives in chillier weather, forming dense, white heads that are perfect for roasting or mashing. Cauliflower’s adaptability in cooking is matched by its rich nutrient profile.
Whether you’re a fan of cauliflower rice or steaks, this vegetable offers endless culinary possibilities. A must-have for any autumn harvest plan.
Collard Greens
Collard greens are a Southern staple with a rich, savory flavor. Plant them now for a hearty addition to your fall meals.
These greens are known for their ability to withstand cooler temperatures, making them ideal for autumn gardens. Their large, dark leaves are packed with nutrients.
From classic Southern dishes to modern wraps, collard greens provide versatility and depth to your cooking. Their robust nature and flavor make them a favorite among gardeners.
Onions
Onions are a kitchen staple that promise much when planted in the fall. These bulbs develop a rich, sharp flavor as they grow in cooler weather.
Their versatility in dishes, from soups to sautés, makes them an essential crop. Onions require minimal care and thrive when planted now.
With a variety of types—such as sweet, red, or yellow—they offer both culinary options and visual appeal. Harvesting these bulbs brings satisfaction and flavor to the table.
Leeks
Leeks are the gourmet’s delight, known for their subtle, onion-like flavor. Plant them in fall to enjoy their tender stalks by late autumn.
These alliums thrive in cooler temperatures, growing slowly but rewarding patience with a refined taste. Their long, white stalks are a sign of their quality.
Perfect for soups and stews, leeks add sophistication and flavor depth. For those seeking to elevate their fall harvest, leeks provide both a culinary challenge and a treat.
Parsley
Parsley, often an unsung hero, brings a burst of freshness to dishes. Plant it in the fall for a continuous supply of this versatile herb.
Thriving in cooler weather, parsley’s vibrant green leaves are packed with vitamins, adding both nutrition and flavor to meals. It grows well in both pots and garden beds.
Whether as a garnish or a key ingredient, parsley provides a bright, herbal note that enhances any dish. Its presence in the garden is both practical and ornamental.
Cabbage
Cabbage is a classic choice for fall planting, offering a crunchy, sweet taste. These robust heads thrive in the cooler months, packed with nutritious goodness.
From slaws to rolls, cabbage adapts to countless recipes, providing versatility in the kitchen. Its firm, leafy heads withstand cooler temperatures.
A staple in many traditions, cabbage ensures a hearty harvest and a rich addition to meals. Plant it now to enjoy its bounty as the days grow short.