Beginner’s Guide to Cold Crops Made Simple -

Use this beginner’s guide to cold crops to learn what a cold crop is, when to plant them, and how long they need to grow before harvesting.

What are cold crops?

Cold crops, also known as cold-hardy crops, are vegetables that can withstand cooler temperatures and even frost. These plants are typically planted in the early spring or late fall when the weather is still chilly. Cold crops are a great option for gardeners who want to extend their growing season and enjoy fresh produce well into the colder months.

cabbage plant growing in the ground. A cold crop.

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When to Start Cold Weather Crops

Before starting your cold weather crops there are a few things you need to take into consideration.

Check your local climate: Before you start planting, it’s important to know your area’s average last frost date. This will help you determine when it is safe to plant your cold weather crops without risking damage from a late frost. It is important to not follow what others do unless you are local to them every states growing seasons are completely different.
Start seeds indoors: Many cold weather crops can be started from seed indoors 4-6 weeks before your last expected frost date. This will give them a head start and allow you to transplant them into the garden once the soil has warmed up.
Direct sow seeds: Some cold weather crops, like peas, spinach, and radishes, can be directly sown into the ground as soon as the soil can be worked in early spring. Make sure to follow the instructions on the seed packet for proper spacing and depth.
Use row covers or cloches: If you’re worried about a late frost damaging your newly planted crops, consider using row covers or cloches to protect them until the danger of frost has passed.

Examples of Cold Crops

Broccoli: This nutritious vegetable thrives in cooler temperatures and can be grown throughout the year in many regions.
Kale: A hearty leafy green that actually becomes sweeter after being exposed to frost, kale is a popular choice for cold weather gardening.
Spinach: Another leafy green that can tolerate cold temperatures, spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals.
Carrots: These root vegetables can be left in the ground even after a light frost, making them an excellent choice for fall planting.
Radishes: Quick-growing and easy to grow, radishes are perfect for early spring planting when the soil is still cool.
Brussels sprouts: These mini cabbages prefer cooler weather and can be harvested well into the winter months.
Lettuce: Many varieties of lettuce are cold-tolerant and can be grown as a cut-and-come-again crop for continuous harvesting.

Cold crops offer gardeners a way to continue growing fresh produce even when temperatures drop. By choosing varieties that thrive in cooler conditions, you can enjoy a harvest throughout almost the entire year. Consider adding some cold-hardy crops to your garden this season to keep your kitchen overflowing with fresh produce.