Growing your own garden is a great way to save money on your grocery budget and reduce the levels of pesticides your family is exposed to from conventionally grown crops. Vegetable gardens are a great way to teach your children how to have a healthy relationship with both the environment and their food. Planting and tending an organic garden is a great family activity for children of all ages.
Which Vegetables to Plant?
September is when most places begin to see fall harvest of vegetables planted in late spring or summer. However, it is a great time to plant vegetables that thrive in cooler winter months. Plant a variety of brightly colored vegetables for the greatest health benefits. Carrots, broccoli and root vegetables thrive in almost any climate across the United States.
Regional Suggestions
Midwest – Many green leafy vegetables do especially well during winter months. Select lettuce, collard greens, mustard greens and spinach. Other vegetables that do especially well in the Midwest include turnips, peas, onions and radishes.
New England and Mid-Atlantic – Green leafy vegetables also do well in this area of the country. Spinach, kale, arugula, lettuce, mache and bok choy do especially well during cool and rainy weather. Other vegetable suggestions include radishes, Brussel spouts, broccoli and cauliflower.
Southeast – Beets, bok choy, arugula, carrots, cauliflower, collard greens and broccoli love the winter months in the southeast and gulf coast areas. Other selections include turnips, mustard greens, spinach, kale and Brussel sprouts.
Southwest – Arugula, beets, bok choy, cabbage, collard greens and kale do very well in the mild winter climate of the southwest. Other vegetables that do well in this climate during winter months include turnips, Swiss chard, radishes, leeks, Brussel sprouts and broccoli.
Pacific Northwest – Green leafy vegetables love the cool rainy months of the winter in the Pacific Northwest. Plant bok choy, lettuce, spinach, arugula, mache, mustard greens and collard greens.
You can also grow winter vegetables in green houses and raised planter beds in addition to growing them directly in garden soil. Prepare the soil with organic fertilizers and plant food for the best results.
By growing your own vegetables during cool winter months, you can continue to eat healthy foods throughout the year. Planting a winter garden is great family fun and contributes to the health of your family and the environment.
What are your favorite winter vegetables? Do you like to garden? Let us know!
– The Alternative Daily
