September is a transitional month for gardeners. The hot days of summer begin to give way to the cooler temperatures of fall, signaling the perfect time to plant a variety of crops and flowers. Whether you’re maintaining a vegetable garden, planning a colorful flower bed, or preparing your herb garden for the cooler months ahead, September offers a wealth of planting opportunities.
Why September is an Ideal Planting Month
As summer draws to a close, September is a perfect time to start planning for the upcoming seasons. The soil is still warm from the summer heat, which aids in faster germination for seeds and helps transplants establish their roots quickly. Additionally, the cooler temperatures reduce stress on plants, allowing them to grow steadily before the frost arrives.
For many gardeners, this is a time to transition from summer crops to fall and winter vegetables. It’s also a great opportunity to refresh flower beds with late-blooming perennials and cold-hardy annuals. Let’s explore what you can plant during this productive month.
Vegetables to Plant in September
September is an excellent time to plant cool-season vegetables that thrive in the fall and early winter. Whether you’re planting from seed or transplanting seedlings, here are the best vegetables to plant in September:
1. Leafy Greens
Leafy greens love the cooler weather, and September is an ideal time to plant them. These quick-growing plants can be harvested throughout the fall and even into early winter if you’re in a milder climate. Some leafy greens can also be grown indoors or in greenhouses to extend the growing season.
Best Leafy Greens to Plant in September:
- Lettuce: Quick to grow and available in various types, from crisp romaine to tender butterhead.
- Spinach: Spinach thrives in cool weather and can be harvested multiple times throughout the season.
- Kale: A cold-hardy plant, kale can survive frost and even snow, making it perfect for fall planting.
- Swiss Chard: Vibrant and flavorful, Swiss chard is a great addition to your fall vegetable garden.
- Arugula: With its peppery flavor, arugula grows quickly and can be harvested in as little as 30 days.
2. Root Vegetables
Root vegetables grow best when the temperatures begin to drop, making September a prime time to get them in the ground. These crops store well and are excellent for hearty fall and winter dishes.
Best Root Vegetables to Plant in September:
- Carrots: Carrots need loose, well-drained soil and can handle light frost, which actually improves their sweetness.
- Beets: Beets are versatile and can be harvested for both their roots and greens. They grow well in cooler temperatures.
- Turnips: Another cool-weather root crop, turnips can be harvested when small for tender flavor or left to grow larger for soups and stews.
- Radishes: Radishes are one of the fastest-growing vegetables, making them ideal for planting in September. Some varieties can mature in as little as 25 days.
- Parsnips: Similar to carrots, parsnips develop their best flavor when exposed to cool weather and frost.
3. Brassicas
Brassicas, or members of the cabbage family, are cold-tolerant vegetables that thrive in the cooler months. They can be planted in September to enjoy a steady harvest throughout fall and winter.
Best Brassicas to Plant in September:
- Broccoli: A favorite among fall gardeners, broccoli thrives in cooler weather and can be harvested before heavy frost.
- Cabbage: Cabbage varieties such as Savoy or red cabbage perform well when planted in September and can tolerate frosty conditions.
- Cauliflower: Though more sensitive to heat, cauliflower benefits from the cool autumn air, making September an ideal time for planting.
- Brussels Sprouts: These cold-tolerant veggies taste sweeter after being exposed to frost and can be harvested well into winter.
- Kohlrabi: A unique brassica with an edible stem, kohlrabi grows best in cool weather and can be planted in early to mid-September.
4. Other Cool-Weather Vegetables
In addition to leafy greens, root vegetables, and brassicas, there are several other crops that do well in cooler weather.
Best Other Vegetables to Plant in September:
- Peas: Both sugar snap and snow peas can be planted in September for a fall harvest. These legumes thrive in the cool air and grow quickly.
- Garlic: Garlic is typically planted in the fall to overwinter and be harvested the following summer. September is an ideal time to get garlic bulbs in the ground.
- Onions: Some onion varieties, especially bunching onions, can be planted in September for an early spring harvest.
Herbs to Plant in September
Herbs are a wonderful addition to any garden, and September is an excellent time to plant certain varieties that thrive in cooler weather. Many herbs can continue growing indoors or in containers, making them ideal for extending the gardening season. Here are some of the best herbs to plant in September:
1. Cilantro
Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a cool-weather herb that bolts (goes to seed) quickly in hot temperatures. Planting cilantro in September allows it to grow in cooler temperatures, providing you with fresh leaves throughout the fall.
2. Parsley
Parsley is a hardy herb that can withstand cooler temperatures and even light frost. Whether you’re growing curly or flat-leaf parsley, planting in September will allow you to harvest this versatile herb well into the cooler months.
3. Thyme
Thyme is a perennial herb that can be planted in September for use year-round. It is cold-hardy and can survive frost, making it a great choice for fall gardens. Thyme grows well in garden beds or containers.
4. Chives
Chives are another cold-tolerant herb that grows well in the fall. These mild, onion-like herbs can be planted in September and will continue to grow through the winter if kept in a protected area or indoors.
5. Oregano
Oregano is a perennial herb that can be planted in September to establish roots before winter. It is relatively hardy and can survive cooler temperatures, especially if mulched for winter protection.
Flowers to Plant in September
If you want to keep your garden colorful through the fall and even into winter, September is a great time to plant a variety of flowers. From hardy annuals to late-blooming perennials, there are plenty of options to enhance your flower beds during this transition season.
1. Pansies
Pansies are one of the best flowers to plant in September because they thrive in cooler weather. These hardy annuals are available in a wide range of colors and can often survive light frosts, making them a perfect choice for fall gardens. Pansies can be planted in garden beds or containers and will bloom well into late fall.
2. Mums (Chrysanthemums)
Mums are iconic fall flowers that burst into color in September. They come in a variety of colors, including yellows, oranges, reds, and purples, and they thrive in cooler temperatures. Planting mums in September will add vibrant color to your garden through autumn.
3. Asters
Asters are another fall-blooming perennial that adds pops of color to your garden. These daisy-like flowers bloom in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white and are excellent for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Asters thrive in cool weather and are perfect for planting in September.
4. Snapdragons
Snapdragons are cool-season flowers that can be planted in September for fall and even early winter blooms. They come in a variety of vibrant colors and add vertical interest to flower beds. Snapdragons perform well in containers or garden beds and can handle cooler temperatures.
5. Sweet Alyssum
Sweet alyssum is a low-growing annual that is known for its delicate white, pink, or purple blooms. This fragrant flower thrives in cool weather, making September an ideal time to plant it. Sweet alyssum can be used as ground cover or in containers to complement other fall flowers.
6. Ornamental Cabbage and Kale
While not technically flowers, ornamental cabbages and kales are popular choices for fall planting because of their vibrant, colorful foliage. These plants are cold-hardy and provide a unique decorative element to garden beds, often lasting well into winter.
Shrubs and Perennials to Plant in September
September is also a good time to plant certain shrubs and perennials that will establish their roots before winter sets in. These plants will come back year after year, adding structure and beauty to your garden.
1. Hellebores
Also known as the “Christmas Rose,” hellebores are hardy perennials that bloom in late winter or early spring. Planting them in September allows them to establish their roots before the colder months arrive. Hellebores thrive in shaded areas and can tolerate frost, making them a great addition to your garden.
2. Sedum
Sedum, also known as stonecrop, is a hardy succulent that thrives in cool weather. With its fleshy leaves and clusters of star-shaped flowers, sedum adds texture and color to fall gardens. This perennial is drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making it an ideal plant for fall.
3. Coneflowers (Echinacea)
Coneflowers are tough perennials that can be planted in September for a long-lasting garden presence. These native plants bloom in shades of pink, purple, and white and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. They also tolerate drought and can survive cold winters with proper care.
4. Japanese Anemone
Japanese anemones are fall-blooming perennials that add a splash of late-season color to the garden. These elegant flowers bloom in shades of pink, white, and lavender and thrive in partial shade. Planting them in September gives them time to establish roots before winter.
5. Boxwood Shrubs
Boxwood is an evergreen shrub that can be planted in September for year-round structure in your garden. These shrubs are often used to create formal hedges or as foundation plants. Boxwood is hardy and tolerates pruning well, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add evergreen beauty to their landscape.
Tips for Success When Planting in September
Planting in September offers many benefits, but there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure the success of your garden. Follow these tips for a productive fall planting season:
1. Monitor Weather Patterns
In September, the weather can be unpredictable. Keep an eye on the forecast to ensure that temperatures are appropriate for planting. If there’s an early frost predicted, you may need to protect your young plants with row covers or cloches.
2. Prepare Your Soil
After a long summer of growing, your soil may need some attention before planting new crops. Amend your garden beds with compost or well-rotted manure to replenish nutrients and improve soil structure.
3. Water Consistently
Although the weather may be cooler, plants still need consistent watering to establish strong root systems. Water your new plants regularly, especially during dry spells, to ensure they have enough moisture.
4. Mulch for Protection
Applying a layer of mulch around your newly planted crops helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. As the weather gets cooler, mulch can also protect roots from frost.
5. Use Season Extenders
For areas that experience early frosts, consider using season extenders like cold frames, row covers, or hoop houses to protect your plants and extend your growing season into late fall or early winter.
Final Thoughts
September is a month full of gardening possibilities. Whether you’re planting vegetables for a fall harvest, adding colorful flowers to your garden, or establishing perennials and shrubs, there’s something for every type of gardener during this transitional season.
By taking advantage of the warm soil, cooler air, and shorter daylight hours, you can ensure a bountiful and beautiful garden well into the cooler months. Happy planting!