Vegetables to Grow in November

November might seem like a quiet time in the garden, but there’s still plenty to do! As the days grow shorter and the weather cools, certain plants thrive in these conditions, making it the perfect time to set up for a successful winter and spring. From hardy vegetables to herbs and flowers, here’s a guide on what to grow in November.


1. Garlic

Garlic is one of the easiest crops to plant in November. This hardy plant loves the cold and will spend the winter developing strong roots. By planting garlic now, you’ll give it time to establish itself and have a better chance of larger, healthier bulbs next summer. Simply plant individual cloves in well-drained soil, about 2-3 inches deep and 6 inches apart, with the pointed end facing up. Cover with a layer of mulch or compost to help insulate the bulbs during the winter.

We planted a few different varieties down at our allotment this week, ready for the cold winter weather.

2. Onions and Shallots

November is also a great time to plant onion and shallot sets. These alliums benefit from a winter start, as the cold weather encourages strong root growth, resulting in larger bulbs come harvest. Plant the sets about 1 inch deep with the pointed tip just poking above the soil. Like garlic, they’ll need well-draining soil and a bit of mulch to protect them during any harsh weather.

3. Broad Beans

Broad beans are surprisingly cold-resistant and can be sown directly into the ground in November. Choose a hardy variety like Aquadulce Claudia, which is well-suited for overwintering. Sow seeds about 2 inches deep and 8 inches apart, in double rows if you have the space. Broad beans will grow slowly over winter and produce an early harvest in spring. Just keep an eye out for any particularly harsh weather and cover young plants if needed.

4. Peas

Peas, especially early varieties like Meteor, can also be sown in November for an early spring crop. Plant seeds about an inch deep in well-drained soil, spacing them about 2 inches apart in rows. Protect seedlings with a cloche or fleece during frosty nights. Peas are a delightful crop to harvest as the first signs of spring appear, and they add a sweet, fresh taste to early salads and dishes.

5. Winter Lettuce and Salad Greens

Hardy winter lettuces, like Arctic King, along with salad greens such as lamb’s lettuce (corn salad), mizuna, and mustard greens, can be grown throughout winter if given a little protection. Sow seeds in pots or directly in the ground in a sheltered spot, and cover with a cloche or cold frame to protect against frost. These greens will provide fresh, nutritious leaves for salads all winter long.

Lettuce can thrive in the colder weather!

6. Spinach

Spinach is a fantastic leafy green to sow in November, as it thrives in cooler weather. Look for winter-hardy varieties, and plant them directly in the ground or in containers. Spinach grows slowly over winter, producing tender young leaves perfect for salads or cooking. Cover with fleece if temperatures drop too low, and you’ll have fresh spinach ready for harvest before spring.

7. Herbs

While many herbs go dormant in winter, a few hardy ones, like parsley, chives, and thyme, can still thrive with a little care. Planting parsley or chives in pots and placing them in a sheltered location (like a cold frame or greenhouse) will provide fresh herbs throughout the colder months. Thyme, being perennial, is resilient and can remain outdoors. Protect young plants with a layer of mulch to help insulate the roots.

8. Flower Bulbs for Spring

November is your last chance to plant spring-flowering bulbs like daffodils, tulips, and crocuses. These bulbs require a period of cold to bloom in spring, making November the perfect time to get them in the ground. Choose well-drained soil, plant the bulbs at a depth roughly three times their height, and cover with a light layer of compost. By planting bulbs now, you’ll ensure a beautiful, colourful display as soon as the warmer weather arrives.

9. Asparagus Crowns

For those planning ahead, November is an excellent time to plant asparagus crowns. Asparagus is a long-term investment, as it takes a couple of years to establish, but once it’s settled, it will provide delicious spears every spring for many years. Choose a sunny, well-drained spot, and plant crowns about 12 inches apart in trenches. Cover lightly with soil, adding more as the plants grow.

10. Rhubarb Crowns

Rhubarb is another perennial crop that can be planted in November. Choose a sunny, sheltered location with fertile soil, and plant crowns about 3 feet apart to give them plenty of room. Rhubarb will start to produce in early spring, and while you may need to wait a year or so for an abundant harvest, the effort is well worth it. Rhubarb crowns are hardy, and a winter start helps them establish a strong root system.


Tips for November Planting

  • Protect Young Plants: As the weather gets colder, be prepared to protect seedlings and young plants from frost. Use fleece, cloches, or mulch to insulate your crops.
  • Maintain Soil Health: Ensure soil is well-drained and fertile to support overwintering crops. Adding compost or a light mulch layer can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
  • Plan for Spring: By planting now, you’re setting yourself up for an early spring harvest, with crops ready to grow and flourish as soon as the warmer days return.

November may feel like a quieter month in the garden, but it’s a perfect time to prepare for the colder months ahead and lay the groundwork for a fruitful spring. So, bundle up, head outside, and get planting—you’ll thank yourself when those fresh, homegrown greens, beans, and roots are ready to harvest in the coming months!