Five crops to plant and harvest in November

With winter around the corner, gardening tends to slow down due to the cold weather.

However, there are plenty of winter garden vegetables that can be harvested now that are perfect for gardeners who love spending time outdoors, even in the cooler months.

Knowing which winter vegetables are suitable is crucial for ensuring a bountiful harvest during the upcoming months.

Now, gardening expert and director of Easy Garden Irrigation, Sean Lade, has shared the most popular winter vegetables which can be harvested and planted this season.

1. Brussels sprouts

Brussels sprouts need to be sown in seed trays or modules from March to May and can be harvested from October onwards.

READ MORE: Three ‘simple’ and ‘robust’ edible plants will provide early crops if sown now

Homebase advises on looking after your garden in winter

Sean said: “To grow Brussels sprouts, sow them in seed trays or modules from March to May. Once they have grown sufficiently to be manageable, transplant them into the garden, ensuring a spacing of 60cm between individual plants and leaving 75cm between rows.

“It’s essential to firmly secure the plants in the soil and provide stakes to prevent them from being blown about in the wind.

“For optimal flavour, you can start harvesting Brussels sprouts from October onwards. Similar to various winter crops, Brussels sprouts are known to develop a more enhanced taste after exposure to frost, so don’t rush to harvest them.”

2. Parsnips

Parsnips are winter root vegetables that are often used in Sunday roasts and delicious soups.

The crops can be sown sparingly during the spring season before being thinned. There needs to be a 15cm space between plants within rows spaced 30cm apart.

Sean added: “Ensuring a weed-free environment during the summer months is crucial, and you can start harvesting these flavourful parsnips in the autumn.

“To enhance their flavour, it is recommended to expose them to frost, although you may want to consider covering the ground with a fleece to prevent the soil from freezing.”

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3. Winter cabbage

Winter cabbages need to be sown in spring and their spacing adjusted to ensure there is a 45cm gap between individual plants, with rows placed 60cm apart.

Gardeners need to shield these crops from potential pests like fleabeetles, whiteflies, and white butterfly caterpillars using fine mesh. Winter cabbages can be harvested as needed, ensuring a steady supply of recipes and dishes.

4. Carrots

Carrots can be sown directly in outdoor rows during November and December and can then be developed beneath protective cloches.

Sean explained: “Planting carrots near your winter onions and garlic can serve as a natural deterrent to flies, as these aromatic companions help mask the scent of carrots.

“Don’t forget the importance of thinning your seedlings, as this practice promotes the growth of larger, more substantial roots for your eventual harvest.

“If you’re seeking a fast-maturing variety, ‘Adelaide’ is an excellent choice, known for producing a delectably crisp and sweet crop.”

5. Spinach

Gardeners can maintain a constant supply of “cut and come again” spinach leaves by sowing spinach seeds in a successive manner throughout both the autumn and winter seasons.

Consistent harvesting will ensure spinach crops keep producing well into the spring months.

Sean said: “It’s essential to prevent your plants from going to seed, so be vigilant about removing any flowers that may appear.

“Additionally, maintaining proper soil moisture is crucial to support healthy spinach growth and sustained yield.”

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