It is a common misconception that spring and summer is the time to grow vegetables. However, edible gardening during winter offers a unique opportunity to grow a variety of vegetables that thrive in lower temperatures. While the chilly weather may seem challenging, with proper planning and care you can enjoy a fantastic harvest of leafy greens and other vegetables even during this time.
One of the best groups of vegetables to get into during the cooler months are the leafy greens. Kale is a real winner when it comes to winter gardening. Its robust and cold-hardy nature makes it an excellent choice, and varieties like curly, Tuscan and red kale are particularly well-suited to withstand frost. Kale thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a reliable and nutritious addition to your winter garden.
Spinach and silverbeet are two great cold-tolerant leafy greens that flourish in cool conditions. They can be grown from seeds or seedlings, and like rich, fertile soil and regular moisture. Providing some protection with row covers or cold frames can extend their growing season. Silverbeet in particular is a versatile and visually appealing leafy green that can brighten up your winter garden. With its colourful stems and large, tender leaves, rainbow chard not only looks amazing but is also packed with nutrients.
Although we generally associate lettuce with summer salads, they can be grown throughout the year and produce well during winter. Lettuces can be sown directly in the garden or started indoors and transplanted. Providing adequate mulching and covers over your beds can protect them from extreme cold and frost.
One of our favourites to grow now are the wide range of Asian greens, such as bok choy, pak choy, tatsoi, mizuna and wombok. These greens offer unique flavours and textures and are packed with nutrients. They tolerate low temperatures and can be harvested at various stages of maturity. Sow the seeds directly in the garden or start them indoors for early transplanting. Like most of the leafy greens, Asian greens will benefit from consistent moisture, so a well-functioning irrigation system and properly mulched beds are important.
Brussels sprouts, broccoli and cabbage are cold-hardy vegetables that are a must in the garden at this time. The mini cabbage-like brussels sprouts develop best in cool weather, and their flavour actually improves after exposure to frost. They are best transplanted in early autumn in our climate, so if you haven’t got them in the ground yet you probably won’t get the best harvest, as they won’t be as tight or tasty. Broccoli and cabbage though can be planted now for a wonderful late winter/early autumn harvest.
Carrots are root vegetables that can be successfully grown throughout the winter. Some varieties do better than others, so choose more cold-hardy seeds. Sow directly in the garden, ensuring the soil is loose and well-drained. Mulching after germination will help protect the soil from very low temperatures and allow for easier harvest.
Don’t be deterred by the lower temperatures outside, and make use of your winter by growing some of these wonderful vegies. You will soon realise that this is a great time to be in the garden.
HAPPY GARDENING!
Drew Cooper, Edible Gardens
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