Plant Now for a Winter Harvest: Hardy Vegetables to Grow in October
As the harvest moon of 2025 approaches, October presents an ideal time for gardeners in various regions to plant a range of hardy vegetables. These crops thrive in cooler temperatures and shorter days, setting the stage for a bountiful winter harvest.
Experts like Kayleigh Dray suggest planting hardy vegetables such as kale, Brussels sprouts, and leeks in October for USDA hardiness zones 3-9. These frost-resistant crops can withstand cold temperatures, making them perfect for winter gardening.
Cabbage, specifically the Durham Early variety, should be planted six to eight weeks before the first frost. This hardy early season crop can be harvested before winter sets in. Similarly, garlic is an excellent choice for planting in October across zones 3-9.
Lettuce, often considered a cool-season crop, can be grown outdoors throughout the winter in warmer areas. Meanwhile, snow peas, another cool-season vegetable, require no extra care compared to other pea varieties and are quite frost hardy.
Broccoli, an annual plant that grows in USDA Hardiness Zones 2 to 11, can also be planted in fall using plug plants.
With the right timing and selection of crops, October offers gardeners a wealth of opportunities to plant vegetables that will thrive in the cooler months ahead. By understanding and working with the local climate and USDA Hardiness Zones, gardeners can enjoy a winter harvest of their hardy vegetable choices.
