It may feel like summer is already halfway over, but it’s not too late to plant something delicious. In fact, this is one of the best moments to sow fast-growing greens that will reward you with a vibrant fall harvest—especially if you missed the spring rush or your earlier crops didn’t quite go as planned. The secret lies in choosing the right varieties that love warm soil and mature quickly.
From crisp lettuces to nutrient-rich kale, many greens actually grow faster and taste better when planted later in the season. The cooler nights ahead can enhance their flavor, reduce pests, and extend your harvest into early autumn. And since many of these greens are compact and adaptable, they’re ideal for raised beds, containers, or even balcony rail planters.
In this guide, we’ve gathered 16 reliable, fast-growing greens that you can still plant right now without falling behind. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, these choices are low-maintenance, high-reward, and perfect for squeezing in a final round of growth before the season wraps up.
Arugula
Arugula, often dubbed as rocket, is a peppery delight that grows rapidly, making it a favorite for fall planting. Its distinctive flavor adds a zing to salads and pizzas alike. Just a few weeks after planting, you’ll find these leaves ready to harvest. Ideal for gardeners who crave quick results. Rich in vitamins and minerals, arugula stands out as a nutritional powerhouse. Its versatility in the kitchen means it pairs well with other ingredients, enhancing the taste of any dish.
Spinach
Spinach thrives in cooler temperatures, making it an excellent choice for fall harvesting. Known for its rich iron content, it’s a leafy green that provides health benefits alongside its delicate taste. In just over a month, these leaves can be ready for your next meal. Spinach’s ability to grow in partial shade adds to its appeal for many gardeners. Whether added to a smoothie or a warm soup, its flavor and nutrition are unmatched. A classic choice that never disappoints.
Kale
Kale, a resilient green often hailed for its robust health benefits, thrives in cooler climates, making it perfect for fall. Its slightly bitter taste mellows with the chill of autumn. This green is not only versatile in the kitchen but also offers a lovely texture to garden landscapes. Within weeks, its hearty leaves are ready to be picked. Kale’s popularity has surged in recent years, with many exploring its potential in chips, salads, and stews. It remains a timeless gardening staple.
Mustard Greens
For those seeking a bit of spice, mustard greens bring a piquant punch to any dish. Their vibrant leaves grow swiftly, making them ideal for fall planting. In as little as 30 days, these greens can be harvested for fresh salads or cooked dishes. Their distinct taste adds a unique dimension to culinary creations. Beyond taste, mustard greens pack a nutritional punch, being rich in vitamins A, C, and K. Their rapid growth and versatility make them a gardener’s delight.
Swiss Chard
Swiss chard, with its vivid stems, offers both beauty and bounty in the garden. It’s a fast-growing green that withstands cooler temperatures, making it an autumn favorite. The leaves provide a mild, earthy taste that complements various dishes. With a rich history rooted in Mediterranean cuisine, this green has stood the test of time. Its nutritional profile, packed with vitamins and antioxidants, is impressive. Whether sautéed or used fresh, Swiss chard never fails to impress.
Collard Greens
Collard greens, cherished in Southern cuisine, are a staple for fall planting. Their broad, dark green leaves are not just visually appealing but also nutrient-dense. They thrive in cooler temperatures, ensuring a bountiful harvest even as the days shorten. Known for their hearty texture, these greens are ideal for slow-cooked dishes or fresh in salads. Their mild flavor absorbs seasonings well, making them versatile in the kitchen. A classic choice for both novice and seasoned gardeners.
Lettuce
Lettuce is a quintessential green that offers endless variety for fall planting. From butterhead to romaine, each type brings its unique taste and texture. Rapid growth ensures a quick harvest, providing fresh salads in no time. Perfect for those who love crisp, refreshing greens. Lettuce’s adaptability to different climates makes it a reliable choice for many gardeners. Its subtle flavor forms the foundation of countless dishes, offering both nutrition and taste.
Bok Choy
Bok choy, with its crunchy stems and tender leaves, is a delightful addition to any fall garden. This Asian green grows swiftly, making it an excellent choice for those eager to harvest quickly. Ideal for stir-fries and soups, its mild flavor complements a variety of dishes. Bok choy’s resilience to cooler temperatures adds to its appeal for autumn planting. Beyond its culinary uses, it offers a range of nutrients, including vitamins C and K. A versatile and rewarding green to grow.
Watercress
Watercress, often found along streams, brings a peppery zest to dishes. Its rapid growth and cool-weather preference make it a fall favorite. Ideal for sandwiches and salads, watercress offers a punch of flavor that elevates any meal. Despite its delicate appearance, it’s a hardy plant that yields quickly. Known for its impressive nutritional profile, including high levels of vitamin C, it’s a small plant with big benefits. Perfect for gardeners who enjoy a challenge.
Radicchio
Radicchio, with its striking red leaves, adds a splash of color to any fall garden. Known for its slightly bitter taste, it’s a perfect complement to salads and roasted dishes. As the temperatures drop, its flavor mellows, making it a delightful autumn treat. This Italian favorite grows quickly, providing a rewarding harvest. Beyond its visual appeal, radicchio offers a good dose of vitamins and minerals. It’s a sophisticated choice for those looking to diversify their garden.
Mizuna
Mizuna, a Japanese green, is celebrated for its feathery leaves and mild flavor. Its rapid growth makes it a fantastic choice for fall planting. Often used in salads and stir-fries, mizuna provides a gentle peppery kick without overpowering other ingredients. Known for its resilience, it thrives in cooler temperatures, offering a continuous harvest. This green adds both texture and nutrition to your meals, enhancing the overall dining experience. A versatile addition to any garden.
Tatsoi
Tatsoi, with its unique rosette shape, stands out in any garden. This Asian green is known for its spoon-like leaves and mild mustard flavor. Fast-growing and cold-tolerant, it’s perfect for fall planting. Ideal for salads and soups, tatsoi offers a pleasant texture and taste. Its resilience allows for multiple harvests throughout the season, providing a constant supply of fresh greens. Rich in vitamins A and C, tatsoi is both a nutritious and aesthetic addition to your garden.
Endive
Endive, with its crisp texture and slightly bitter flavor, is a standout in any fall garden. Known for its curly leaves, it adds visual interest as well as taste to dishes. Quick to grow, endive thrives in cooler temperatures, ensuring a steady supply of fresh greens. Often used in salads and sautés, its flavor profile enhances a variety of culinary creations. Not just about taste, endive also offers nutritional benefits, being high in fiber and vitamins. A chic choice for gourmet gardeners.
Cress
Cress may be small, but it packs a flavorful punch. This fast-growing green is perfect for those seeking quick results in their fall garden. Often used as a garnish, its peppery notes enliven any dish. The rapid growth rate means you’ll be enjoying fresh cress in just weeks. Known for its adaptability, cress can thrive in various conditions, making it a reliable choice for any gardener. Beyond flavor, it offers a host of nutrients, including vitamins A and C.
Mesclun
Mesclun isn’t just one type of green; it’s a delightful mix of tender young salad leaves. Perfect for fall, this blend offers a variety of flavors and textures that keep meals exciting. Often including arugula, mizuna, and endive, mesclun grows rapidly, providing a harvest in a matter of weeks. Its adaptability to different growing conditions makes it a favorite among gardeners. Each bite offers a new taste experience, ensuring that salads are never boring.
Sorrel
Sorrel, with its lemony flavor, brings a unique zest to dishes. This perennial green is ideal for fall planting, thriving in cooler weather. Its sharp taste complements creamy soups and fresh salads, providing a refreshing twist. Quick to grow, sorrel ensures a bountiful harvest before winter sets in. Not just a culinary delight, it boasts nutritional benefits, being rich in vitamins and minerals. Sorrel is a vibrant choice for adventurous gardeners seeking something different.