There are many vegetables that can be grown in the fall and cold-season garden. Early vegetables that mature in a short 40-day period include arugula, radishes, chives, leaf lettuce, and spinach. In 60 days you can grow kale, Swiss chard, turnips, mustard greens, and early cabbage. In 90 days, plantings could include Brussels sprouts, rutabagas, cauliflower and beets. In zone 7a, you can grow beets by seeding in mid-August.

Extending the season of vegetables with floating row covers or with low hoop tunnels will provide the environment needed to grow an abundance of crops for your family. Veggies in the cabbage family, such as Brussels sprouts, are easy to grow, especially the very hardy types that can take a couple of frosts before harvest, making the flavor even better. Hardy varieties of Brussels sprouts include 'Nautic', 'Diablo', and 'Roodnerf'--all tolerant of cold temperaures. 

For tips on a variety of gardening topics, see our Plant Information Guides.
- Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service