As the temperatures cool down and the vibrant fall colors start to take over Knoxville, it’s the perfect time to get your fall garden ready. Many vegetables thrive in the mild fall temperatures, and planting in the fall allows you to harvest fresh produce just as the weather cools. Here are the best vegetables to plant this fall in Knoxville to make the most of the season!

1. Kale

Kale is a cool-season vegetable that thrives in the fall. It can withstand frost, which actually makes the leaves sweeter. Plant kale in late summer or early fall, and you’ll have a steady supply of nutrient-packed greens throughout the season.

2. Spinach

Spinach is another leafy green that loves the cooler fall weather. It grows quickly and can be harvested multiple times as it continues to grow. Plant it in early fall for a fresh supply of healthy greens.

3. Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts grow well in Knoxville’s fall temperatures, especially after a few light frosts. Plant them in late summer for a harvest that will continue into late fall or even early winter. These mini-cabbages are perfect for roasting or sautéing.

4. Carrots

Carrots love the cooler fall soil and can be planted in late summer for a fall harvest. Be sure to thin the seedlings to allow enough space for the roots to grow large and sweet. Fresh, homegrown carrots are a great addition to soups and salads.

5. Beets

Beets are perfect for fall planting. They grow well in the cooler weather and can be harvested in about 60-80 days. Not only can you enjoy the sweet root vegetable, but the beet greens are also delicious in salads!

6. Turnips

Turnips are hardy vegetables that thrive in the fall. Plant them in late summer or early fall for a quick-growing vegetable that can be harvested in just 50-60 days. Their mild flavor makes them a great addition to stews and roasts.

7. Radishes

Radishes are fast-growing and thrive in fall’s cooler temperatures. You can plant them in late summer for a fall harvest in just a few weeks. Enjoy them fresh in salads or as a crunchy snack!

8. Cabbage

Cabbage is another cool-weather crop that flourishes in the fall. It’s easy to grow and can be harvested throughout the fall. Cabbage is perfect for making slaws, stir-fries, or soups.

Companion Planting Tips

To maximize your fall harvest, consider companion planting! For example, plant spinach or lettuce alongside carrots. The leafy greens help provide shade to the carrot roots, allowing them to grow deeper and sweeter. Similarly, planting radishes with turnips can help keep soil loose, making it easier for roots to develop.

Pest Management Tips

Fall gardening brings cooler temperatures, but pests like aphids, cabbage worms, and slugs may still be around. To keep them at bay:

• Use row covers to protect your crops from insects.
  
  

• Introduce natural predators like ladybugs to control aphids.
  
  

• Apply diatomaceous earth to your plants to deter slugs and snails.

Local Gardening Resources 🌿

Knoxville’s fall gardening scene is full of resources to help you succeed:

• The Knoxville Farmers’ Market has everything you need to start your fall garden, including fall vegetable seedlings.
  
  

• The University of Tennessee Gardens offers helpful tips and seasonal workshops for gardeners in East Tennessee.
  
  

• Local Garden Centers like Home Depot and Lowes provide a great selection of fall crops and gardening supplies.
  
  

• Don’t forget to check out local fall harvest festivals to get inspired and learn new gardening tricks!

Share Your Fall Garden Success!

We’d love to see your fall garden grow! Share photos of your homegrown vegetables with us on social media and tag us. Let’s inspire each other to make this fall the most bountiful gardening season yet!

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. We are not lawyers, financial advisors, accountants, loan officers, or mortgage brokers. Please consult with a qualified professional to understand your specific needs.