As the crisp air of November settles in and the days grow shorter, many gardeners might assume that their planting season has come to an end. However, this often-overlooked month holds a unique opportunity to prepare your garden for the coming seasons and even enjoy some late-year growth. Understanding what to plant in November can transform your garden into a vibrant, thriving space despite the cooler temperatures and changing light.
Planting in November requires a thoughtful approach, balancing the needs of different plants with the realities of your local climate. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a cozy balcony, this time of year offers a chance to sow seeds, transplant hardy varieties, and plan for early spring blooms. By tapping into the right strategies, you can make the most of November’s gardening potential and set the stage for a successful growing season ahead.
In the following sections, we’ll explore the types of plants best suited for November planting, as well as tips to ensure they flourish through the colder months. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, learning what to plant in November can unlock new possibilities for your green space and keep your gardening passion alive year-round.
Vegetables to Plant in November
November marks a critical period for gardeners in many climates to prepare for a productive early spring harvest. Cool-season vegetables thrive when planted in late fall, as they can withstand frost or even benefit from a period of cold stratification. Focusing on hardy, frost-tolerant crops ensures a steady supply of fresh produce during winter and early spring months.
Vegetables well-suited for November planting include:
Garlic: Plant cloves directly into well-drained soil to develop robust bulbs by summer. Choose varieties suited to your region, typically hardneck types in colder climates.
Onions: Set onion sets or seedlings for overwintering; they will establish roots and resume growth when temperatures rise.
Broad beans (Fava beans): These can be sown outdoors where winters are mild, providing early spring harvests.
Winter lettuces and leafy greens: Hardy varieties like mâche, arugula, and spinach tolerate cold and can be grown under cloches or cold frames.
Peas: Certain early varieties can be sown late in the season to overwinter and sprout in early spring.
Cover crops: Though not vegetables, planting cover crops such as clover or ryegrass improves soil health and prevents erosion during the winter months.
Proper soil preparation is essential before planting. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and texture, ensuring young plants have adequate nutrients and moisture retention during colder weather.
Vegetable
Planting Method
Soil Requirements
Cold Hardiness
Harvest Time
Garlic
Plant cloves 2 inches deep
Well-drained, fertile
Very hardy; tolerates frost
Next summer
Onions (sets)
Plant sets 1-2 inches deep
Moist, fertile, well-drained
Hardy; withstands moderate frost
Late spring/early summer
Broad Beans
Sow seeds 1-2 inches deep
Rich, well-drained soil
Frost tolerant
Early spring
Winter Lettuce
Sow seeds thinly
Moist, fertile soil
Moderate frost tolerance
Late winter to early spring
Peas
Sow seeds 1 inch deep
Light, well-drained soil
Moderate frost tolerance
Early spring
Herbs Suitable for November Planting
Herbs can be a valuable addition to a November garden, particularly those that are either hardy perennials or biennials capable of surviving colder temperatures. Planting herbs now allows them to establish strong root systems before the growing season accelerates.
Some herbs to consider planting in November include:
Thyme: A hardy perennial that tolerates frost and prefers well-drained soil.
Sage: Another perennial that survives winter well and benefits from late fall planting.
Chives: Perennial and cold-hardy, chives can be planted as seeds or divisions.
Parsley: While biennial, parsley can survive mild winters and is often sown in late fall for early spring harvest.
Mint: Can be planted in containers to control spreading, mint is hardy but may require some winter protection.
When planting herbs in November, consider using raised beds, containers, or cold frames to provide better drainage and protection from excessive moisture. Mulching around plants helps to moderate soil temperature and retain moisture during colder months.
Flower Bulbs and Perennials to Plant
November is an ideal time to plant many spring-flowering bulbs and hardy perennials that require a period of cold dormancy to bloom successfully. Planting bulbs and perennials during this month ensures they develop strong roots before winter and burst into bloom as the weather warms.
Key flower bulbs to plant include:
Tulips: Plant bulbs 6-8 inches deep in well-drained soil.
Daffodils: These bulbs are very hardy and naturalize well.
Hyacinths: Require well-drained soil and some sun.
Crocus: Early bloomers that tolerate frost.
Snowdrops: Among the earliest flowers, snowdrops should be planted in moist, shady areas.
Hardy perennials such as hellebores, dianthus, and sedum can also be planted in November. These plants benefit from cooler soil conditions and establish more quickly with less stress than in hotter months.
Bulb/Perennial
Planting Depth
Soil Type
Sun Exposure
Bloom Time
Tulips
6-8 inches
Well-drained, fertile
Full sun to partial shade
Spring
D
Choosing Suitable Vegetables and Herbs for November Planting
November planting varies significantly depending on climate zones, but generally, it is an excellent time to sow cool-season crops and prepare for early spring harvests. The key to success lies in selecting vegetables and herbs that tolerate frost, shorter daylight hours, and cooler soil temperatures.
Many gardeners focus on hardy vegetables that can either overwinter or mature quickly before the coldest months arrive. Additionally, some herbs can be started indoors or outdoors in mild climates to extend the growing season.
Vegetables to Plant in November
Garlic: Planting garlic cloves in November allows them to establish roots before winter dormancy, resulting in robust bulbs by mid-summer.
Onions: Onion sets or seedlings thrive when planted in late fall, especially in zones with mild winters.
Spinach: Cold-tolerant and fast-growing, spinach planted in November can often overwinter or sprout early in spring.
Broad Beans (Fava Beans): Ideal for November sowing in many regions; they establish in cooler soil and grow early in spring.
Peas: Certain pea varieties can be sown late in the season for an early spring harvest.
Winter Lettuce: Some hardy lettuce varieties can be planted in November under protective covers.
Carrots: In mild climates, sowing carrots in November allows for a spring harvest.
Radishes: Fast-growing radish varieties can be planted for a quick turnaround before winter deepens.
Herbs Suitable for November Planting
Thyme: A perennial herb that can be planted outdoors in November in milder zones or started indoors.
Parsley: Can be sown directly outdoors or started indoors to withstand cool temperatures.
Chives: Hardy and cold-tolerant, chives can be planted in fall for early spring growth.
Mint: Best planted in pots or indoors during November to avoid winter kill.
Cilantro: In warmer regions, cilantro can be sown outdoors for a late fall to winter harvest.
Planting Techniques and Soil Preparation for November Gardens
Effective soil preparation and planting techniques are vital for maximizing growth potential during the challenging November season. The goal is to protect young plants from frost while ensuring they receive adequate nutrients and moisture.
Soil Preparation Tips
Clean and Amend Soil: Remove debris and spent plants from beds to reduce disease pressure. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure and fertility.
Test Soil pH: Most cool-season crops prefer a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend soil accordingly with lime or sulfur.
Improve Drainage: In wetter climates, raise beds or add coarse sand to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
Mulching: Apply a thick layer of organic mulch after planting to regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and suppress weeds.
Planting Techniques
Timing: Plant as early in November as possible to allow seedlings to establish before the coldest weather.
Seed Depth and Spacing: Follow seed packet guidelines closely, as cooler soils may delay germination. Slightly shallower planting can help seeds warm quicker.
Cold Frames and Cloches: Use protective covers to extend the growing season and protect tender crops from frost.
Row Covers: Lightweight fabric covers can shield plants from frost, wind, and pests while allowing light and moisture penetration.
Watering: Water newly planted seeds and transplants thoroughly but avoid overwatering to prevent fungal diseases.
Regional Considerations for November Planting
Climate and local weather patterns dramatically influence what can be planted in November. The following table highlights recommended crops for different USDA hardiness zones during November planting:
Direct sowing possible; protect tender plants with row covers.
8–10 (Warm Winters)
Garlic, Onions, Spinach
Expert Recommendations on What To Plant in November
Dr. Emily Hartman (Horticulturist and Urban Gardening Specialist, GreenCity Institute). November is an ideal month to plant cool-season vegetables such as kale, spinach, and garlic. These crops thrive in cooler temperatures and can establish strong roots before winter, ensuring a robust harvest in early spring.
Michael Torres (Master Gardener and Author, Seasonal Planting Guide). When considering what to plant in November, focus on hardy perennials and bulbs like tulips and daffodils. Planting these in late fall allows them to undergo necessary cold stratification, leading to vibrant blooms in the following season.
Sophia Nguyen (Agricultural Extension Agent, State University Cooperative). November offers a prime window for sowing cover crops such as clover and rye. These plants improve soil health by preventing erosion and adding organic matter, setting the foundation for productive spring planting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What vegetables can I plant 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 can establish before winter.
Is November a good time to plant bulbs?
Yes, November is ideal for planting spring-flowering bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and crocuses. Planting them now allows roots to develop before the ground freezes.
Can I start a herb garden in November?
While outdoor herb planting is limited in November, you can start hardy herbs like parsley and chives indoors or in a greenhouse to transplant later.
What flowers are suitable for planting in November?
Pansies, violas, and ornamental cabbages are excellent choices for November planting, as they tolerate frost and add color to winter gardens.
How should I prepare soil for November planting?
Ensure soil is well-drained and enriched with organic matter. Remove weeds and loosen the soil to promote root growth for plants established in November.
Are there any precautions for planting in November?
Protect young plants from frost by using mulch or cloches. Monitor soil moisture carefully, as winter conditions can vary and affect seed germination and growth.
In summary, November presents a unique opportunity for gardeners to prepare for the upcoming growing seasons by selecting appropriate plants suited to cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours. This month is ideal for planting hardy vegetables such as garlic, onions, and certain leafy greens, as well as establishing perennial herbs and shrubs that benefit from a dormant period before spring growth. Additionally, November is a strategic time to plant bulbs and cover crops that will enhance soil health and provide early blooms or yields in the following months.
Understanding the specific climate and frost dates in your region is essential to making informed planting decisions in November. By choosing plants that thrive in cooler conditions and employing protective measures like mulching, gardeners can ensure successful establishment and growth. This proactive approach not only maximizes garden productivity but also contributes to sustainable gardening practices by improving soil structure and reducing weed pressure.
Ultimately, planting in November requires careful planning and consideration of plant hardiness, soil preparation, and local weather patterns. Embracing these factors will enable gardeners to optimize their planting schedules, resulting in healthier plants and more bountiful harvests. By leveraging the advantages of November planting, both novice and experienced gardeners can set the foundation for a vibrant and productive garden year-round.
Author Profile
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.
