Think the gardening season ends with summer? Think again. September is actually one of the best times to plant certain crops—especially if you’re aiming for a productive fall harvest. The soil is still warm, the air is cooling down, and pests begin to fade. With the right vegetables and timing, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown produce deep into autumn and even early winter.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener looking to extend your harvest, this guide covers the top crops you can plant in September and how to get the most from your fall garden.
Why September Is Ideal for Planting
Even though summer crops may be winding down, the growing conditions in early to mid-September are perfect for a second round of planting. Here’s why:
- Soil is warm — helps with quick germination
- Cooler air — less stress on young plants
- Fewer pests and diseases — reduced summer infestations
- Shorter days — slow growth slightly, but enhance flavor in greens
- Fall rain — natural moisture reduces watering needs
As long as you know your first average frost date, you can count backward and plant fast-maturing crops that will reach harvest before the cold sets in.
1. Spinach
Spinach is a superstar fall crop. It loves cooler temperatures and becomes even sweeter after a light frost.
- Days to maturity: 35–50
- Frost tolerance: High
- Why now: September-planted spinach will grow quickly and may even overwinter in some zones
Planting tip: Sow seeds ½ inch deep in rich, well-drained soil. Water regularly and harvest outer leaves as needed.
2. Radishes
Fast-growing and beginner-friendly, radishes are the go-to crop for fall gardeners looking for quick results.
- Days to maturity: 21–30
- Frost tolerance: Moderate
- Why now: You can plant multiple rounds through September for continuous harvests
Planting tip: Direct seed into loosened soil and thin seedlings early. Avoid letting them grow too large or they’ll get woody.
3. Lettuce (Loose-Leaf)
Loose-leaf lettuces are perfect for the September garden. They germinate fast and don’t bolt in cooler temperatures.
- Days to maturity: 30–45
- Frost tolerance: Light
- Why now: Great for harvesting tender leaves throughout fall
Planting tip: Sow every 10–14 days for a steady supply. Use shade cloth early in the month if temperatures are still warm.
4. Beets
Beets offer a dual harvest—tender greens in a few weeks and roots in a little over a month.
- Days to maturity: 50–60
- Frost tolerance: High
- Why now: Still enough time for beets to develop before frost in most zones
Planting tip: Space seeds 2–3 inches apart. Thin early for better root development and eat the pulled greens.
5. Carrots
Carrots grow slowly but love fall conditions. Cool weather makes them sweeter and more flavorful.
- Days to maturity: 60–75
- Frost tolerance: High
- Why now: Plant early in the month for baby carrots or full roots by late fall
Planting tip: Keep soil moist for proper germination. Thin plants once they’re a few inches tall.
6. Turnips
Turnips are cold-hardy, fast-growing, and ideal for fall harvests. Like beets, both greens and roots are edible.
- Days to maturity: 40–60
- Frost tolerance: High
- Why now: Perfect for growing in containers or garden beds
Planting tip: Direct sow into moist soil. Harvest greens early and roots when they’re golf ball-sized.
7. Kale
Kale not only thrives in cool temperatures—it actually tastes better after a frost. September is prime time for planting.
- Days to maturity: 50–70
- Frost tolerance: Excellent
- Why now: Will continue producing into winter in many regions
Planting tip: Sow seeds or transplant starts. Harvest outer leaves first and let the plant keep producing.
8. Swiss Chard
Swiss chard tolerates light frosts and continues growing even after other greens fade. It’s colorful and nutrient-dense.
- Days to maturity: 50–60
- Frost tolerance: Moderate
- Why now: Grows well in early fall with a long harvest window
Planting tip: Give it some space to grow. Harvest outer stalks and allow center to regrow.
9. Mustard Greens
Spicy and tender, mustard greens grow quickly and thrive in cool soil.
- Days to maturity: 30–40
- Frost tolerance: Light to moderate
- Why now: One of the best fast-growing greens for a fall garden
Planting tip: Sow directly in soil. Harvest small leaves early for mild flavor.
10. Broccoli Rabe (Rapini)
Unlike full-headed broccoli, broccoli rabe matures quickly and offers tender shoots with a slightly bitter edge.
- Days to maturity: 40–60
- Frost tolerance: Moderate
- Why now: Plant early September for a solid fall harvest
Planting tip: Sow in rich soil with consistent moisture. Harvest when flower heads are still tight.
Bonus: Garlic (For Next Year’s Harvest)
While not ready for fall harvest, September is the perfect month to plant garlic in many regions. It will establish roots in fall, go dormant in winter, and grow strong in spring for a summer harvest.
Planting tip: Choose large, healthy cloves and plant 2 inches deep with the pointy end up. Mulch well.
FAQs
Q: Is it too late to plant vegetables in September?
A: Not at all—especially fast-maturing crops like radishes, spinach, lettuce, and turnips. Just check your local frost date and work backward.
Q: Can I grow in containers in September?
A: Yes. Spinach, radishes, lettuce, and even kale grow well in containers. Just ensure they get sun and don’t dry out.
Q: How do I protect September crops from early frost?
A: Use row covers, fabric, or cold frames. Mulch around plants and water during the day to retain heat.
Q: Should I fertilize fall crops?
A: A small dose of balanced fertilizer or compost at planting time is helpful. Fall crops don’t need heavy feeding.
Q: Can I plant seeds or do I need transplants?
A: Many crops (like spinach, radishes, and lettuce) grow well from direct seeding. For slower crops like kale or broccoli, transplants can save time.
Final Thoughts
September is far from the end of your growing season. In fact, it’s the beginning of a second wave—a cooler, calmer period ideal for quick-growing, nutrient-dense crops. With just a few square feet and a little planning, you can plant spinach, radishes, beets, and more for fresh harvests well into fall.