Herbs and Vegetables To Plant in Autumn

Garlic requires a period of cold weather to properly establish its bulbs. Planting in autumn allows the cloves to take root and begin to grow before winter sets in. This early establishment leads to stronger, healthier plants in the spring.

Coriander prefers cooler temperatures for germination and growth. Planting it in autumn provides the ideal conditions for successful establishment without the risk of the intense heat that can cause it to bolt prematurely in summer. Coriander matures relatively quickly, allowing you to harvest fresh leaves before the onset of winter.

Radishes are known for their rapid growth, often maturing in as little as 3 to 4 weeks. Planting them in autumn allows you to take advantage of the cooler temperatures, which can further expedite their growth, resulting in a quicker harvest. They are also less likely to bolt (produce flowers and seeds prematurely) when grown in cooler temperatures.

Planting thyme in autumn allows it to develop a solid root system before winter arrives, improving its ability to endure colder temperatures and promoting growth. Thriving in cooler climates, thyme, a Mediterranean herb, benefits from autumn planting, as it provides optimal growing conditions and helps prevent the herb from experiencing stress due to excessive heat.

Peas prefer cooler temperatures for germination and growth. Planting them in autumn provides an environment that is beneficial to their development, as they are less prone to heat stress and bolting compared to planting in the hotter months of spring. Many pests that target peas are less active in the cooler temperatures of autumn, reducing the risk of infestation.

Autumn planting of silverbeet extends the harvest window, allowing you to enjoy fresh leaves well into the cooler months. Silverbeet is known for its ability to withstand frost, making it a reliable crop for late autumn and even early winter harvesting in milder climates as it is a cool-season vegetable.