What to Plant in the Garden and Allotment in Autumn Essential Guide for a Productive Season

Autumn is a crucial season for gardeners and allotment enthusiasts. As the temperatures begin to cool, it’s time to start planning what to plant in the garden and allotment to ensure a productive and vibrant space throughout the colder months. While many associate autumn with harvesting, it’s also the perfect time to sow certain crops, plant bulbs, and prepare your soil for the next growing season. By taking advantage of the milder conditions, you can set the stage for a bountiful garden in the following spring and even enjoy fresh produce during winter.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best vegetables, fruits, and flowers to plant in autumn, along with helpful tips for ensuring their success. Whether you’re looking to grow root vegetables like carrots, onions, and garlic, or want to plant hardy greens such as kale, spinach, and cabbage, autumn offers a wide range of possibilities. Many flowers and bulbs, like daffodils and tulips, also thrive when planted in the fall, ready to burst into bloom once spring arrives.

Preparing your allotment or garden for the colder weather is equally important. Tasks like clearing out spent summer crops, mulching, and protecting delicate plants from frost can make a big difference in how your garden survives the winter and thrives in the new year. By implementing these strategies, you’ll ensure that your garden remains active, productive, and ready for the next growing season.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting your allotment journey, this guide will provide you with the essential knowledge to maximize your autumn planting efforts. Let’s get started on transforming your garden and allotment into a year-round haven!

Vegetables To Plant In Autumn

Autumn is a key time for gardeners and allotment enthusiasts to get their hands dirty and plant crops that will thrive during the cooler months. As the heat of summer fades, certain vegetables flourish in the crisp, cool temperatures, allowing you to enjoy a steady harvest even when winter arrives. While many might associate autumn with the end of the growing season, it is actually the perfect opportunity to plant a variety of cold-hardy crops that will mature over winter or in early spring.

Whether you’re looking to grow hearty root vegetables like garlic, onions, and carrots, or leafy greens like kale, spinach, and Swiss chard, there are numerous options for autumn planting. These vegetables are not only resilient in the face of colder weather but often benefit from the frost, which enhances their flavors and nutritional content. Many crops planted in autumn, such as broad beans and winter lettuces, will grow slowly but steadily throughout the winter, offering a harvest just as spring arrives.

In addition to vegetables, this is also an excellent time to prepare your garden and allotment for the winter months. Mulching, clearing out summer crops, and adding compost to enrich the soil can all help protect your garden through the cold and set the stage for the next growing season. By focusing on crops that are suited to autumn and winter conditions, you can make the most of your garden all year round.

This guide will walk you through the best vegetables to plant in autumn, along with tips on how to care for them during the colder months. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner, autumn planting is a rewarding way to extend your growing season and enjoy fresh, homegrown produce throughout the year.

1. Garlic

Description: Garlic thrives in the cool autumn months and requires a long growing season to develop properly. Plant garlic cloves in well-drained soil, spacing them about 6 inches apart. They will grow over the winter and be ready to harvest in late spring or early summer. Varieties like ‘softneck’ are excellent for milder climates, while ‘hardneck’ types are more cold-tolerant.

2. Onions

Description: Autumn is a great time to plant onion sets, especially winter-hardy varieties. These onions will slowly grow over the colder months, with harvesting in the late spring or early summer. Varieties like ‘Senshyu Yellow’ are particularly good for overwintering, ensuring you have a healthy crop ready by the time spring arrives.

3. Spinach

Description: Spinach is a cold-hardy vegetable that can be sown in autumn for a continuous harvest throughout the winter. It grows best in well-drained soil and requires minimal effort once established. Varieties like ‘Perpetual Spinach’ are known for their ability to survive frost and cold weather, providing fresh greens during the colder months.

4. Kale

Description: Kale is one of the best crops to plant in autumn, as it thrives in cool temperatures and even becomes sweeter after a frost. Plant varieties like ‘Curly Kale’ or ‘Cavolo Nero’ to enjoy a steady harvest through winter and early spring. This nutrient-rich leafy green is also incredibly hardy and resistant to many pests.

5. Broad Beans

Description: Broad beans (fava beans) are excellent for autumn planting. Varieties such as ‘Aquadulce Claudia’ are particularly hardy and can survive through winter, offering an early harvest in spring. Sow the seeds in well-drained soil and ensure they are in a sunny spot to promote healthy growth.

6. Winter Lettuce

Description: Certain varieties of lettuce, such as ‘Winter Density’ or ‘Arctic King,’ are perfect for autumn planting. They can withstand cooler temperatures and grow slowly, providing fresh salad greens throughout winter. Lettuce prefers a sunny spot and well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging in cold conditions.

7. Carrots

Description: Autumn is the ideal time to sow hardy varieties of carrots like ‘Autumn King’ or ‘Chantenay.’ These carrots can withstand light frosts and slowly mature in the ground, offering a harvest in late winter or early spring. Plant in deep, well-drained soil for best results, and be sure to mulch heavily to protect the roots.

8. Cabbage

Description: Cabbages are a classic autumn vegetable, and winter-hardy varieties like ‘January King’ are well-suited for the colder months. Plant young plants in autumn for a harvest in late winter or early spring. Cabbage prefers firm, fertile soil and needs plenty of space to develop large heads.

9. Peas

Description: Peas, particularly hardy varieties like ‘Kelvedon Wonder’ or ‘Douce Provence,’ can be sown in autumn for an early spring harvest. Peas planted in autumn will grow slowly over the winter, producing a sweet and tender crop once the warmer temperatures return.

10. Leeks

Description: Leeks are a long-growing crop that benefits from being planted in the autumn. Varieties like ‘Musselburgh’ can withstand frost and cold weather, making them an excellent winter vegetable. Sow in well-drained soil, and they will mature for harvesting in late winter and early spring.

11. Turnips

Description: Turnips are another hardy root vegetable that can be planted in autumn. They grow quickly in cooler temperatures, and varieties like ‘Purple Top Milan’ or ‘Snowball’ are known for their ability to withstand light frost. They’re perfect for soups, stews, or roasting during winter.

12. Radishes

Description: Radishes are fast-growing and can be planted in early autumn for a quick harvest before winter sets in. Some hardy varieties, like ‘China Rose’ or ‘Black Spanish,’ can be grown through winter for an early spring harvest. Radishes thrive in cool weather and are great for small spaces or container gardening.

13. Pak Choi (Bok Choy)

Description: Pak Choi is a cool-weather-loving vegetable, perfect for autumn planting. It grows quickly and can handle light frosts, making it an ideal addition to your autumn garden. Plant in well-drained soil and keep it well-watered to ensure healthy, tender leaves.

14. Swiss Chard

Description: Swiss Chard is a versatile leafy green that can be planted in autumn for a winter harvest. Varieties like ‘Bright Lights’ are hardy and can grow through the colder months, providing nutritious greens that are perfect for salads, soups, and stir-fries.

15. Brussels Sprouts

Description: Brussels sprouts are an excellent autumn vegetable that thrives in cooler temperatures. Plant varieties like ‘Long Island Improved’ or ‘Brilliant’ in autumn for a late winter or early spring harvest. Brussels sprouts develop their best flavor after being exposed to a frost.

16. Parsnips

Description: Parsnips take a long time to mature and are perfect for planting in autumn. Hardy varieties like ‘Gladiator’ will develop over winter, and their flavor improves with frost. Parsnips require deep, fertile soil and should be harvested in late winter or early spring.

17. Beetroot

Description: Beetroot, particularly hardy varieties like ‘Boltardy,’ can be sown in early autumn for a harvest in late autumn or overwintered for an early spring crop. It grows best in cool temperatures and can tolerate light frosts.

By planting these vegetables in the autumn, you’ll ensure a productive and varied garden through the colder months, ready for a great harvest in the winter or early spring.

Fruit To Plant In Autumn

Autumn is a fantastic time to plant a variety of fruit trees and bushes in your garden or allotment. As the soil is still warm from summer and rainfall is more frequent, it creates the perfect conditions for root establishment before the winter chill sets in. Planting fruit in autumn allows the plants to settle in and develop strong roots, ensuring they are well-prepared to thrive once spring arrives. By starting now, you’ll set the stage for a healthy, productive harvest in the coming year.

Whether you’re planting apple, pear, or plum trees, or focusing on smaller fruits like raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries, autumn planting has significant benefits. Many fruit trees and bushes are hardy and benefit from the cooler temperatures, allowing them to gradually establish themselves without the intense stress of summer heat. Additionally, planting in autumn means less watering and care, as the natural weather conditions provide ample moisture and support for root growth.

Some fruits, like blackberries, currants, and gooseberries, thrive when planted in cooler weather, as they tend to produce more vigorous crops after enduring a colder season. Others, like fig trees and grapevines, benefit from being planted now so that their roots can strengthen before the next growth cycle. Even cold-hardy varieties of strawberries and cranberries will settle in nicely during autumn, ready to provide you with a fruitful harvest next year.

This guide will walk you through the best fruits to plant in autumn, along with tips on how to plant and care for them. By taking advantage of the cooler months, you’ll not only enjoy a more manageable planting process but also ensure a bountiful harvest for the coming seasons. Whether you’re planting trees or bushes, autumn is the perfect time to get your fruit garden started.

1. Apple Trees

Description: Autumn is an ideal time to plant apple trees, as the soil is still warm, allowing roots to establish before winter. Varieties such as ‘Granny Smith,’ ‘Braeburn,’ and ‘Golden Delicious’ thrive when planted in well-drained, fertile soil. Choose a sunny spot for your apple trees and ensure good spacing for air circulation. By planting in autumn, your trees will have time to settle in and be ready for a strong growing season come spring.

2. Pear Trees

Description: Like apples, pear trees benefit from autumn planting. Varieties like ‘Conference’ and ‘Williams’ are popular choices. Pear trees prefer a sunny location with rich, well-drained soil. By planting in the autumn, the roots can establish over winter, providing a better chance of strong growth and a good harvest the following year.

3. Plum Trees

Description: Plum trees, including varieties like ‘Victoria’ and ‘Damson,’ are well-suited to autumn planting. These trees enjoy full sun and rich, well-drained soil. Planting in autumn allows the tree to establish its root system, making it better equipped to handle the warmer weather and produce a healthy crop in the following seasons.

4. Cherry Trees

Description: Cherry trees, particularly sweet varieties like ‘Stella’ and sour varieties like ‘Morello,’ do well when planted in autumn. They prefer well-drained soil and a sunny, sheltered spot. Autumn planting allows the roots to develop over winter, giving the tree a head start when spring arrives. Cherries also benefit from colder winters to set fruit.

5. Raspberry Canes

Description: Autumn is the best time to plant raspberry canes, particularly autumn-fruiting varieties such as ‘Autumn Bliss’ or ‘Polka.’ These canes establish roots quickly in cooler weather and will fruit the following summer. Plant in well-drained soil in a sunny or partially shaded spot, and ensure they are supported as they grow.

6. Strawberries

Description: Planting strawberries in autumn, especially early varieties like ‘Honeoye’ or ‘Cambridge Favourite,’ gives the plants a chance to establish strong roots before winter. By spring, they will be ready to produce a healthy crop of delicious berries. Strawberries thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with plenty of sunlight.

7. Blueberry Bushes

Description: Blueberries are best planted in autumn, as this allows them to settle into the soil before winter. Varieties like ‘Patriot’ or ‘Bluecrop’ do well in acidic, well-drained soil, and they prefer a sunny spot. Mulch the base of the bush to protect the roots from frost. By the time spring arrives, your blueberry bush will be ready to grow strong and produce a bountiful crop.

8. Blackberry Bushes

Description: Blackberries, particularly thornless varieties like ‘Loch Ness’ or ‘Apache,’ are excellent candidates for autumn planting. These bushes are hardy and establish well in cooler conditions. Blackberries thrive in full sun or partial shade and prefer rich, well-drained soil. Autumn planting allows the roots to develop, ensuring a strong crop the following summer.

9. Gooseberry Bushes

Description: Gooseberries are hardy and can be planted in autumn for an early summer harvest. Varieties like ‘Invicta’ or ‘Hinnonmäki Red’ are popular choices. Gooseberry bushes prefer well-drained, slightly acidic soil and full sun. Planting in autumn gives the plant time to settle in before winter and encourages better growth in the spring.

10. Currants (Black, Red, White)

Description: Currants (black, red, and white) are ideal for autumn planting, as they thrive in cooler conditions. Varieties like ‘Ben Sarek’ (blackcurrant), ‘Red Lake’ (redcurrant), and ‘White Versailles’ (whitecurrant) are great choices. These bushes prefer well-drained soil and full sun or partial shade. By planting in autumn, the roots will establish over winter, leading to a healthier plant and better yield in the following year.

11. Fig Trees

Description: Fig trees, particularly hardy varieties like ‘Brown Turkey,’ can be planted in autumn in milder climates. Figs need a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil. Planting in autumn allows the roots to settle and the tree to become established before the next growing season. Be sure to protect the tree during frosts with mulch or horticultural fleece.

12. Grape Vines

Description: Grape vines, especially cold-tolerant varieties like ‘Lakemont’ or ‘Concord,’ can be planted in autumn. They require a sunny location with well-drained soil. By planting in autumn, the vine will establish roots before winter, preparing it for vigorous growth and fruit production in the warmer months.

13. Cranberries

Description: Cranberries are well-suited to autumn planting, as they prefer cooler weather to establish roots. They grow best in acidic, bog-like soil and require full sun. Planting in autumn allows the plants to get rooted before winter, resulting in a stronger crop come summer.

14. Rhubarb

Description: Rhubarb crowns can be planted in autumn for a strong start the following spring. Varieties like ‘Timperley Early’ or ‘Victoria’ are reliable and hardy. Rhubarb prefers rich, well-drained soil and full sun or partial shade. Autumn planting gives the plant time to establish roots and produce a healthy crop by early spring.

15. Pears (Quince)

Description: Quince, closely related to pears, thrives when planted in autumn. Varieties like ‘Smyrna’ do well in cooler weather and benefit from the cold to produce fruit. Plant them in well-drained soil with good sun exposure. Autumn planting allows them to develop strong roots and prepare for the following growing season.

By planting these fruits in autumn, you give them time to establish strong roots and adapt to their environment before winter, leading to healthier growth and better yields when the growing season begins.

Flowers To Plant In Autumn

Autumn is a perfect time to plant a wide variety of flowers that will brighten up your garden in the coming months. As the cooler weather sets in, the soil is still warm enough to allow bulbs and plants to establish strong root systems before winter fully arrives. By planting now, you’ll set the stage for a stunning floral display in late winter, early spring, and beyond.

Many autumn-planted flowers, such as daffodils, tulips, and crocuses, are hardy bulbs that require a period of cold to bloom their best. These bulbs are easy to plant and will reward you with vibrant colors when the spring season starts. In addition to bulbs, you can also plant winter-flowering varieties like hellebores, which will bring blooms during the colder months, adding beauty and interest to your garden when many other plants have gone dormant.

Autumn planting is not just about creating spring displays—there are plenty of flowers that bloom through winter, providing color and interest even in the bleakest months. Winter pansies, cyclamen, and wallflowers are great examples of plants that can survive the chill and continue to add a splash of color when most plants are resting. By carefully selecting a mix of bulbs and winter-flowering plants, you can ensure a year-round garden that always has something in bloom.

This guide will walk you through some of the best flowers to plant in autumn, from early-blooming bulbs to winter-hardy plants. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner looking to make the most of your garden through the colder months, these flowers are sure to provide beauty and joy well into the next season.

1. Daffodils

Description: Daffodils are one of the most popular autumn-planted flowers, known for their cheerful yellow blooms in early spring. Plant the bulbs in well-drained soil and full sun or partial shade. They need to be planted 6-8 inches deep and will bloom in late winter or early spring. Varieties like ‘King Alfred’ are especially hardy and reliable.

2. Tulips

Description: Tulips are another favorite autumn bulb. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Plant the bulbs about 6 inches deep, and they’ll reward you with vibrant, colorful blooms in the spring. Varieties like ‘Queen of Night’ or ‘Apeldoorn’ offer striking blooms that brighten up any garden.

3. Crocus

Description: Crocuses are small, hardy flowers that bloom in early spring, often pushing through snow. They can be planted in borders, lawns, or containers. Plant the bulbs about 3 inches deep in well-drained soil and in a sunny or lightly shaded spot. Varieties like ‘Pickwick’ or ‘Ruby Giant’ will bring beautiful purple and white flowers to your garden.

4. Hyacinths

Description: Hyacinths are known for their intense fragrance and vibrant spikes of color. Plant the bulbs 4-6 inches deep in well-drained soil and full sun or partial shade. Hyacinths bloom in early to mid-spring, with varieties like ‘Blue Jacket’ or ‘Pink Pearl’ offering stunning colors and scent.

5. Alliums

Description: Alliums are striking, ornamental flowers with large globe-shaped blooms on tall stems. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Plant the bulbs in autumn about 4-6 inches deep. Varieties like ‘Purple Sensation’ or ‘Mount Everest’ add height and a dramatic effect to garden beds in late spring and early summer.

6. Snowdrops

Description: Snowdrops are among the earliest flowers to bloom in late winter or early spring, even through snow. These delicate white flowers thrive in shady areas and prefer moist, well-drained soil. Plant the bulbs 2-3 inches deep in the autumn for a beautiful winter display.

7. Iris (Reticulata)

Description: Irises are ideal for autumn planting, particularly dwarf varieties like Iris reticulata. These bulbs produce stunning, early spring blooms in shades of purple, blue, and yellow. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, and should be planted 4 inches deep. Varieties like ‘Harmony’ are compact and perfect for borders or rock gardens.

8. Anemones

Description: Autumn is a great time to plant anemone bulbs (corms). Varieties like ‘Anemone blanda’ produce daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, blue, and white in early spring. Plant them in well-drained soil, 2-3 inches deep, and they will thrive in partial shade or full sun.

9. Bluebells

Description: Bluebells, particularly the English variety, are iconic woodland flowers that bloom in mid to late spring. These bulbs thrive in shady spots with moist, well-drained soil. Plant the bulbs in autumn about 3-4 inches deep, and they will naturalize over time, creating a sea of blue blooms in the spring.

10. Fritillaria

Description: Fritillaria is a unique, eye-catching flower with bell-shaped blooms. Varieties like ‘Crown Imperial’ or ‘Fritillaria meleagris’ are perfect for autumn planting. They prefer full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. Plant the bulbs 5-6 inches deep, and they will bloom in late spring.

11. Camassia

Description: Camassia bulbs produce tall spikes of star-shaped flowers in late spring. They are particularly suited to moist, well-drained soil and can handle partial shade. Varieties like ‘Blue Heaven’ bring stunning blue or white blooms that work well in mixed borders.

12. Chionodoxa (Glory of the Snow)

Description: Chionodoxa is a hardy, low-growing flower that blooms in early spring, often while snow is still on the ground. These star-shaped flowers, in shades of blue, pink, or white, prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Plant the bulbs about 3 inches deep in autumn for a beautiful early spring display.

13. Winter Aconites

Description: Winter aconites bloom in late winter, producing small, bright yellow flowers that can thrive in shady areas. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and should be planted about 2 inches deep. These low-growing flowers are perfect for naturalizing under trees and shrubs.

14. Scilla (Siberian Squill)

Description: Scilla, or Siberian Squill, is a resilient spring-blooming bulb that produces delicate blue or white flowers. It thrives in well-drained soil and partial shade or full sun. Plant the bulbs 3 inches deep in autumn, and they’ll bring a bright pop of color in early spring.

15. Winter Pansies

Description: Winter pansies are an excellent choice for adding color to your garden throughout autumn, winter, and early spring. These hardy flowers come in a variety of colors and are perfect for containers, borders, or hanging baskets. Plant them in well-drained soil and full sun for best results.

16. Hellebores

Description: Also known as the Christmas rose, hellebores are evergreen perennials that bloom from late winter into early spring. They thrive in partial shade and well-drained soil. Planting in autumn allows them to establish well before winter. Varieties like ‘Double Ellen’ produce stunning, long-lasting blooms in shades of white, pink, and purple.

17. Cyclamen (Hardy Varieties)

Description: Hardy cyclamen, such as Cyclamen hederifolium, are perfect for autumn planting and will provide beautiful blooms from late autumn through winter. These low-growing plants with delicate pink or white flowers thrive in shady areas with well-drained soil.

18. Wallflowers

Description: Wallflowers are biennial plants that can be planted in autumn to bloom the following spring. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil and are known for their fragrant flowers in shades of red, yellow, orange, and purple. Varieties like ‘Fire King’ or ‘Bowles’s Mauve’ are popular choices.

19. Snapdragons

Description: Snapdragons, or Antirrhinums, are cold-tolerant flowers that can be planted in autumn in milder climates. They offer tall spikes of colorful blooms in spring and prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Varieties like ‘Rocket Mix’ are great for adding vertical interest to borders and containers.

20. Primroses

Description: Primroses are one of the earliest spring-blooming flowers, and autumn is the perfect time to plant them. These low-growing plants thrive in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Varieties like ‘Primula vulgaris’ produce cheerful yellow flowers that brighten up any garden.

By planting these flowers in autumn, you’ll ensure a stunning display of blooms throughout late winter, early spring, and beyond, bringing life and color to your garden after the colder months.

Here are 10 of the most common questions and answers related to planting in the garden and allotment during autumn:

1. What are the best vegetables to plant in autumn?

Answer: The best vegetables to plant in autumn include garlic, onions, kale, spinach, broad beans, winter lettuce, and root crops like carrots, turnips, and parsnips. These cold-hardy crops thrive in cooler temperatures and can grow slowly over winter or be ready to harvest in early spring.

2. Can I still plant fruit in autumn?

Answer: Yes, autumn is an ideal time to plant fruit trees and bushes. Popular choices include apple, pear, plum, and cherry trees, as well as raspberry, strawberry, and blueberry bushes. The cooler weather allows their roots to establish before winter, setting the stage for healthy growth in spring.

3. What flowers should I plant in autumn?

Answer: Autumn is a great time to plant bulbs like daffodils, tulips, crocuses, and hyacinths for early spring blooms. You can also plant winter-flowering varieties like hellebores, winter pansies, and cyclamen, which will provide color through the colder months.

4. Do I need to protect my autumn plants from frost?

Answer: Many autumn-planted vegetables and flowers are frost-hardy, but for tender plants, you may want to protect them with fleece or cloches during particularly cold nights. Mulching your soil can also help protect plant roots from frost damage.

5. Can I grow vegetables in containers in autumn?

Answer: Yes, many vegetables can be grown in containers during autumn. Leafy greens like spinach and lettuce, root vegetables like carrots, and even garlic or onions can be grown in pots. Make sure to use deep containers with good drainage and choose cold-hardy varieties.

6. What can I do to improve my soil before planting in autumn?

Answer: Adding organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to your soil in autumn can help improve its structure and nutrient content. Mulching also helps retain moisture and protect the soil from winter weather, ensuring it stays in good condition for planting.

7. Can I still plant seeds in autumn, or is it better to use plants?

Answer: Some seeds, like broad beans, spinach, and winter lettuce, can be sown directly into the ground in autumn. However, for crops like kale and cabbage, it’s often better to plant young seedlings in autumn to give them a head start before the cold sets in.

8. What’s the best way to plant bulbs in autumn?

Answer: Bulbs like daffodils, tulips, and crocuses should be planted in well-drained soil, about two to three times the depth of the bulb’s size. Ensure they are placed pointy side up, and water them in well after planting. Plant them in groups for a natural look when they bloom in spring.

9. How can I extend my growing season in autumn?

Answer: To extend your growing season, consider using cold frames, cloches, or row covers to protect your crops from frost and extend their harvest period. You can also plant cold-hardy vegetables that can withstand frosty conditions and continue growing into winter.

10. What are the benefits of planting in autumn?

Answer: Planting in autumn allows plants to establish strong root systems before the onset of winter, making them better prepared to grow vigorously in spring. The cooler temperatures also reduce stress on plants, and the natural rainfall helps maintain soil moisture, making autumn planting easier with less maintenance.

These questions and answers provide a solid foundation for anyone looking to make the most of their garden or allotment during the productive autumn season.