Top Herbs & Vegetables for a Fabulous Fall Culinary Garden

The Central Coast Team | August 30, 2024 @ 12:00 AM

Every year, I fall more in love with fall—as if that’s possible.

As the air cools, the days shorten, and the desire to curl up by the fireplace calls

to my soul, I’m overjoyed that this magnificent season is upon us.

Exquisite crimson, gold, and orange leaves. Anticipation of the upcoming holidays.

Intoxicating aromas from comforting soups, stews, and roasts wafting through the

house.

Even better, many herbs and veggies used in these seasonal dishes can be grown

in our backyards. With fall being prime gardening season, how could you resist?

No need to run to the store for only a few ingredients when you can simply pluck

them from your garden.

A couple of thyme sprigs? Sure, no problem. A few carrots? Coming right up!

How amazing is that! Not only can you “shop” in your jammies, but you’ll also

save money and reduce waste since you can harvest just what you need.

With a little effort and a few tools from home or storage, your fall garden will

soon be overflowing with a spectacular harvest.

Now, if only veggies could magically appear.

Have no fear. It’s simple and incredibly rewarding to grow your own food. Martha

Stewart’s got nothin’ on you!

Here are a few favorite vegetables and herbs that are easy to grow this time of

year. Before you know it, you’ll be whipping up decadent masterpieces with your

very own homegrown bounty.

Sow (yep, I know), let’s get growing!


Leafy Greens & Brassicas

Leafy greens and brassicas are nutritional powerhouses and superstars in the fall

garden. Spinach, arugula, lettuce, and Swiss chard are among the most popular

crops to plant now.

Not to be outdone, the brassica vegetable family—broccoli, cauliflower, kale,

Brussels sprouts, and collard and mustard greens—also thrives in cooler

temperatures. These versatile veggies are staples in many fall and winter recipes.

Root Vegetables

Mainstays in many a fall and winter garden, root vegetables, such as carrots,

beets, turnips, and parsnips, grow underground. Not only do they add earthy

sweetness to soups, stews, and side dishes, but the flavorful leafy green tops,

especially from beets and turnips, are fantastic in salads and packed with wellness

benefits.

Herbs

Herbs are a triple win—they’re undemanding, thrive in containers (great for small

spaces), and add tremendous flavor and depth to dishes. You’ll find yourself

reaching for sage, cilantro, chives, oregano, rosemary, and thyme again and again

throughout the cooler months.

Ready to don your chef’s hat and create gourmet meals from your own culinary

garden?

I know I am!

Just waiting for an invite …

Um, still waiting …