When autumn arrives with its softer light and cooler temperatures, gardeners start packing it in but in many regions, there are still crops to be grown. According to Mother Earth News, cold-hardy crops can give you garden freshness right through the cold, dreary months of winter.
Winter fare is basically limited to crops of leaves, stems and roots. Think carrots and spinach and you’re on the right track.
Southern states don’t have to take any extra precautions but northern state gardeners may have to employ protective devices like cold frames, a greenhouse or a couple of layers of floating row covers.
Here are a few recommended crops you can grow throughout the winter to give your table that fresh-picked tastiness we all crave:
Arugula
Asian greens
Carrots
Chard
Claytonia
Kale
Leeks
Lettuce
Mâche
Parsley
Radish
Spinach
Turnips
Tips for making the most of your winter garden
Create protection by bending plastic pipes over the beds and covering with plastic sheeting. Cover crops with heavy layers of straw or mulch. If your budget allows, grow crops in a greenhouse. Use stakes to support blankets, old sheets or row covers to protect from cold night temps and harsh winds. Surround the bed with old hay bales and cover area with old windows to create a mini greenhouse.
Enjoy your winter garden!
Be sure to check out Theresa's other columns:
Self-Sustained Living Examiner
Southern Illinois Day Trips Examiner
If you liked this article click the Subscribe button to receive email updates when a new article is published. Follow Theresa on Google+, StumbleUpon and Twitter or connect on Pinterest. Visit Amazon to find fiction by Theresa.
©TheresaLeschmann. All Rights Reserved. No part of this article may be reproduced without prior permissions from the author. Partial reposting is permitted with a link back to the original article.
Got something to say? Say it on Examiner by following this link to sign up.
