In growing zones three and four it’s time to begin thinking about your cool season garden. This is the fourth part in the Cool Season Gardening Series and even if you don’t live in these zones this tips and tricks will help you in your cool season gardening journey so stay with me! Join me in the Cool Season Garden to learn more about growing in pots, starting an outdoor container garden and harvesting techniques when your plants freeze in growing zones three and four.
Zones three and four can be subject to harsh winters. However, fall is an excellent time to extend your growing season with a cool season garden. I recommend planting in August whether you plant directly into the ground or into pots. (To start seeds like a high performance gardener I recommend the Secrets of Seeds Series.) If in pots the best locations will usually be on the south side of your house. Don’t worry about finding the perfect location as you can always move around container gardens! You will want to bring your pots inside if the temperature is supposed to drop below 25 degrees F. If you are planting directly into the soil you will want to stay tuned to the upcoming training videos for covering your plants to protect them from frost. The best plants to grow in a fall cool season garden are Arugula, Claytonia, Vit, Beet greens, Swiss Chard, Bok Choy, Kale, Lettuce, Mustards, and Spinach.You can grow outside until the temperatures consistently start hitting 25 deg at night. You should have wonderful greens from the garden into November unless you live at a high altitude. Frost protection will be a must to keep your green going that long.
When you are harvesting your cool weather greens be careful to not pick until they have thawed out. When you pick your greens when they are frozen they will turn black and mushy. Give the plant a chance to thaw out. If you have a cold frame, greenhouse or covers for your plants you can keep some of them growing through December and you can replant the cool season plants in your garden in March or April in a sunny location, after the snow has melted off. Imagine enjoying produce from your garden for the majority of the year. It is truly a wonderful experience.
How goes extending your growing season? Have you already begun to dream about next years garden? If you are ready to take your garden to the next level of efficient productivity check out the the Leafy Greens Container Garden this is the perfect way to master the cool season container garden that will extend your growing season up to 8 weeks!
Until next time may your garden be easy, fun, productive and always organic!
Lynn
Email Lynn any questions you or your family has about growing in zones three and four. It is exciting to help you take the best advantage of your growing season!
