What Plants Can You Successfully Grow When Planting in November?

AvatarBySheryl Ackerman General Planting

As the crisp air of November settles in and the days grow shorter, many gardeners might assume that the planting season has come to a close. However, this month offers unique opportunities to prepare your garden for the coming seasons and even to nurture certain plants that thrive in cooler conditions. Understanding what plants you can plant in November can transform your garden into a vibrant, resilient space that carries beauty and productivity through winter and beyond.

November gardening requires a thoughtful approach, balancing the challenges of colder weather with the benefits of planting at this time. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a cozy balcony, knowing which plants are suited for November planting can help you make the most of your green thumb. From hardy vegetables to certain flowers and shrubs, this period can be surprisingly fruitful for those who plan wisely.

In the following sections, we will explore the variety of plants that flourish when sown or planted in November, as well as tips on how to care for them during the colder months. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, discovering what can be planted now opens up exciting possibilities for your garden’s year-round success.

Vegetables Suitable for November Planting

November is an excellent month for planting a variety of cool-season vegetables that thrive in lower temperatures and shorter daylight hours. These vegetables typically have a longer growing period through winter or early spring, depending on your climate zone. Root vegetables, leafy greens, and some hardy brassicas are particularly well-suited for November planting.

Root vegetables such as carrots, beets, and radishes can be sown directly into well-prepared garden beds. These crops benefit from the cooler soil temperatures, which reduce the risk of bolting and help develop sweeter flavors. Additionally, many root crops are frost-tolerant, allowing them to survive and even improve in flavor after light frosts.

Leafy greens, including spinach, kale, and Swiss chard, also thrive when planted in November. These greens are cold-hardy and can withstand frost, which can increase their sweetness and tenderness. They grow relatively quickly and can provide fresh produce through the winter months.

Brassicas like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage can be transplanted or sown in November in milder climates. These plants require a longer growing season but benefit from the cooler weather, which enhances their flavor and texture.

Key considerations for November vegetable planting include:

  • Soil temperature: Ensure it remains above the minimum threshold for seed germination, generally around 40°F (4°C).
  • Frost protection: Use row covers or cloches for particularly sensitive plants if frost is expected.
  • Soil preparation: Enrich soil with compost and ensure good drainage to prevent root rot in wet conditions.
Vegetable Planting Method Optimal Soil Temperature (°F) Frost Tolerance Notes
Carrots Direct sow 45-85 Moderate Thin seedlings to avoid overcrowding
Spinach Direct sow or transplant 40-75 High Prefers moist soil, mulch to retain moisture
Kale Transplant or direct sow 45-80 High Improves flavor after frost
Beets Direct sow 50-85 Moderate Harvest greens early for salads
Broccoli Transplant 45-75 Moderate Needs consistent moisture

Herbs to Plant in November

November is a suitable time for planting certain hardy herbs that can establish roots before winter and flourish in early spring. Many perennial herbs benefit from a late fall planting as they can develop strong root systems during the dormant period.

Parsley is one of the few biennial herbs that can be started in November, either by direct sowing or transplanting seedlings. It tolerates cold weather and can survive mild frosts. Thyme and sage are perennial herbs that can be planted as transplants or cuttings. They prefer well-drained soil and a sunny location, and they benefit from protection against excessive winter moisture.

Other herbs like chives and mint are also suitable for November planting, especially in regions with mild winters. These herbs will go dormant during the coldest months but will resume growth as temperatures rise.

For successful herb planting in November, consider:

  • Soil drainage: Herbs generally prefer well-drained soil to prevent root rot.
  • Mulching: Apply mulch to protect roots from freezing temperatures and conserve moisture.
  • Location: Choose sites with adequate sunlight, ideally 6+ hours per day.
  • Protection: Use cloches or cold frames to shield young plants in colder climates.

Flower Bulbs and Perennials for November Planting

November is a prime time to plant many flower bulbs and certain perennials that require a cold period to break dormancy and bloom successfully in spring. Bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, crocuses, and hyacinths should be planted during this month before the ground freezes.

Planting flower bulbs in November allows them to establish roots before winter, ensuring vigorous growth and vibrant blooms in spring. Bulbs should be planted at a depth roughly two to three times their height in well-drained soil to prevent rotting.

Certain perennials, such as hellebores and pansies, can also be planted in November. These plants are cold-tolerant and provide early-season color. When planting perennials in November, prepare the soil by adding organic matter and ensure they have sufficient water before the ground freezes.

Indoor Plants to Start in November

For gardeners looking to get a head start on the growing season, November is an ideal month to start indoor plants from seed. This includes starting seedlings of tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants under controlled conditions such as grow lights or sunny windows.

Starting plants indoors in November allows for transplanting outdoors in late winter or early spring, giving plants a longer growing season and increasing yields. Seedlings require consistent warmth, moisture, and light to develop strong stems and healthy leaves.

Key tips for indoor seed starting include:

  • Use sterile seed-starting mix to reduce disease risk.
  • Maintain temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) for optimal germination.
  • Provide 12-16 hours of

Vegetables Suitable for November Planting

November is an ideal time to plant a variety of cool-season vegetables, particularly in regions with mild winters or where frost protection is available. Selecting crops that tolerate or thrive in cooler temperatures ensures a productive winter or early spring harvest.

  • Garlic: Typically planted in late fall, garlic requires a cold period to develop bulbs properly. November planting allows the cloves to establish roots before winter dormancy.
  • Onions: Onion sets or seedlings can be planted in November for overwintering, especially in warmer climates. They will resume growth as temperatures rise.
  • Spinach: Hardy and frost-tolerant, spinach planted in November can provide fresh greens through winter and early spring.
  • Broad Beans (Fava Beans): These legumes perform well when sown in late autumn, allowing them to establish before winter and flourish in early spring.
  • Peas: Certain varieties, such as snow peas and snap peas, can be sown in November in mild climates or under protection.
  • Lettuce: Cold-tolerant lettuce varieties can be grown in November, especially when using cold frames or cloches.
Vegetable Planting Method Climate Considerations Expected Harvest Time
Garlic Plant cloves 2 inches deep Requires cold period; suitable in USDA zones 4-9 Late spring to mid-summer
Onions Plant sets or seedlings 1-2 inches deep Mild winters preferred for overwintering Early summer
Spinach Sow seeds directly into soil Frost-hardy; perform well in cooler zones 6-8 weeks
Broad Beans Direct sow seeds 2-3 inches deep Cold tolerant; best in temperate climates Early spring
Peas Direct sow seeds 1-2 inches deep Requires mild winter or protection 8-10 weeks
Lettuce (Cold-tolerant varieties) Direct sow or transplant seedlings Use protection in colder areas 4-6 weeks

Flowers and Ornamentals to Plant in November

November is a strategic time to plant many bulbs, perennials, and shrubs that benefit from a period of cold dormancy to bloom vibrantly in spring or summer. Planting in this month allows roots to establish while the soil is still workable.

  • Spring-Flowering Bulbs: Tulips, daffodils, crocuses, hyacinths, and alliums should be planted in November to ensure proper chilling periods and robust flowering.
  • Perennials: Hardy perennials such as hellebores, pansies, and ornamental cabbages thrive when planted in November, providing early color and structure.
  • Shrubs: Deciduous shrubs like hydrangeas and forsythias can be planted now, as they remain dormant and will establish root systems before spring growth.
  • Winter Annuals: Plants such as calendula and sweet alyssum can be sown or transplanted in November for winter and early spring blooms in mild climates.
Plant Type Examples Planting Instructions Bloom Time
Spring-Flowering Bulbs Tulips, Daffodils, Crocuses, Hyacinths Plant bulbs 4-6 inches deep in well-drained soil Early to mid-spring
Perennials Hellebores, Pansies, Ornamental Cabbage Plant seedlings or divisions; mulch to protect roots Winter to early spring
Shrubs Hydrangeas, Forsythias Plant dormant shrubs with ample root space Spring to summer
Winter Annuals Calendula, Sweet Aly

Expert Insights on What Plants Can You Plant in November

Dr. Emily Hartman (Horticulturist and Urban Agriculture Specialist). November is an ideal time to plant cool-season vegetables such as kale, spinach, and garlic. These crops benefit from the cooler temperatures and can establish roots before winter, ensuring a robust harvest in early spring.

Mark Jensen (Certified Master Gardener and Landscape Consultant). When considering November planting, focus on hardy perennials and bulbs like tulips and daffodils. Planting these in late fall allows them to undergo the necessary chilling period, which is critical for proper blooming in the following season.

Dr. Sophia Nguyen (Soil Scientist and Sustainable Farming Advisor). It is important to assess your local climate zone before planting in November. In milder regions, herbs such as parsley and cilantro can be sown successfully. Additionally, cover crops like clover can improve soil health during the dormant months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What vegetables can be planted in November?
In November, you can plant cold-tolerant vegetables such as garlic, onions, spinach, kale, and broad beans. These crops thrive in cooler temperatures and often benefit from overwintering.

Are there flowers suitable for November planting?
Yes, bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and crocuses are ideal for November planting. These bulbs require a cold period to bloom in spring and should be planted before the ground freezes.

Can herbs be planted in November?
Certain hardy herbs like chives, thyme, and parsley can be planted in November, especially in milder climates or with protective measures such as mulching or cold frames.

Is it advisable to plant fruit trees in November?
November is a good time to plant dormant fruit trees in many regions, as the roots establish before spring. Ensure the soil is workable and not frozen to promote healthy root growth.

What precautions should be taken when planting in November?
Use mulch to protect young plants from frost, choose varieties suited to cold weather, and avoid planting in waterlogged or frozen soil to prevent root damage.

Can November planting improve spring garden success?
Yes, planting in November allows many plants to establish strong root systems during winter, leading to earlier and more vigorous growth in spring.
In November, gardeners have a unique opportunity to prepare their gardens for the upcoming seasons by planting a variety of plants suited to cooler temperatures. This month is ideal for sowing hardy vegetables such as garlic, onions, and certain leafy greens like spinach and kale. Additionally, November is a favorable time to plant bulbs for spring blooms, including tulips, daffodils, and crocuses, which require a cold period to thrive. In milder climates, it is also possible to plant certain shrubs and trees that benefit from establishing roots during the cooler months.

Understanding the specific climate and frost dates in your region is essential when selecting plants for November planting. Cool-season crops and hardy perennials are generally the best choices, as they can tolerate lower temperatures and sometimes even frost. Proper soil preparation and mulching can further enhance plant survival and growth during this transitional period. By choosing appropriate plants and employing sound gardening practices, gardeners can ensure a productive and vibrant garden in the months ahead.

Overall, November planting is a strategic approach to extending the gardening season and improving garden resilience. It allows for early establishment of plants that will flourish in spring and summer, ultimately contributing to a more diverse and sustainable garden ecosystem. Gardeners who take advantage of

Author Profile

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Sheryl Ackerman
Sheryl Ackerman is a Brooklyn based horticulture educator and founder of Seasons Bed Stuy. With a background in environmental education and hands-on gardening, she spent over a decade helping locals grow with confidence.

Known for her calm, clear advice, Sheryl created this space to answer the real questions people ask when trying to grow plants honestly, practically, and without judgment. Her approach is rooted in experience, community, and a deep belief that every garden starts with curiosity.

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