The choice of vegetables you choose to plant will largely depend on local climate conditions, soil type, and the specific microclimate in your garden. Generally, September is a good time for planting hardy and overwintering vegetables, as well as some fast-maturing crops that can be harvested before the first hard frost.
Here are some vegetables that are commonly planted in the UK in September:
Hardy Vegetables
- Kale – A hardy leafy green that can survive frosts and even snow. Planting in September allows for a winter harvest.
- Spinach – Another hardy green that can be harvested throughout winter if the conditions are not too harsh.
- Swiss Chard – This vegetable can be quite resilient and is often planted in early autumn for winter harvest.
- Leeks – Though they’re usually planted earlier in the year, late varieties can still be planted in September for a spring harvest.
- Cabbage – Winter cabbages can be planted for a late winter or early spring harvest.
- Winter Lettuce – Certain varieties are frost-hardy and can provide fresh greens throughout the winter.
Overwintering Vegetables
- Garlic – Plant garlic cloves in September for harvesting the following summer.
- Onion sets – Overwintering varieties can be planted now for a harvest next spring or early summer.
- Broad Beans – Planting broad beans in the fall can give you a head start for spring.
- Peas – Some varieties can be sown in autumn to overwinter and produce an early spring crop.
Fast-Growing Vegetables
- Radishes – These can be sown in September and harvested in as little as 3 to 4 weeks.
- Turnips – Similarly, these can be sown for a late autumn harvest.
- Mustard Greens – A quick crop that adds a spicy flavor to salads and can be harvested within a few weeks of planting.
- Pak Choi – This Asian green can mature in as little as 30 days.
- Lambs Lettuce – This can be sown in September for a quick harvest in mild winter regions.
Before planting any of these vegetables, it’s essential to prepare the soil well by adding compost and ensuring good drainage. It’s also crucial to read seed packets for specific guidelines on planting depth and spacing. Finally, always consider local frost dates and weather forecasts to ensure the best possible outcome for your vegetable garden.