Best Varieties of Fall Veggies for Your Zone 2 September Garden

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As the days grow shorter and the temperatures begin to cool, gardeners in Zone 2 can still enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh vegetables. Choosing the right varieties for your September planting ensures a successful fall garden. Here are some of the best fall veggie varieties suited for Zone 2 gardens.

Root Vegetables

Root vegetables are ideal for fall planting because they can tolerate cooler soil temperatures and often taste sweeter after a light frost. Consider these varieties:

  • Carrots: ‘Danvers 1260’, ‘Nelson’, and ‘Chantenay’
  • Beets: ‘Detroit Dark Red’, ‘Golden’, and ‘Chioggia’
  • Parsnips: ‘Hollow Crown’, ‘Jewel’, and ‘Gladiator’

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens thrive in cooler weather and can be harvested multiple times. These varieties are excellent choices:

  • Spinach: ‘Bloomsdale’, ‘Baby’s Leaf’, and ‘New Zealand’
  • Kale: ‘Dwarf Blue Curled’, ‘Lacinato’, and ‘Winterbor’
  • Swiss Chard: ‘Bright Lights’, ‘Fordhook’, and ‘Rainbow’

Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables are hardy and can withstand the early frosts typical of Zone 2. Consider planting:

  • Cabbage: ‘January King’, ‘Savoy’, and ‘Red Drumhead’
  • Broccoli: ‘Calabrese’, ‘Green Magic’, and ‘Packman’
  • Cauliflower: ‘Snowball’, ‘Cheddar’, and ‘Purple of Sicily’

Legumes and Peas

Legumes and peas are quick-growing and suitable for fall planting. Try these varieties:

  • Peas: ‘Sugar Snap’, ‘Oregon Sugar Pod’, and ‘Little Marvel’
  • Fava Beans: ‘Aquadulce Claudia’, ‘Broad Windsor’, and ‘Faba Bean’

Additional Tips for Fall Gardening in Zone 2

To maximize your fall harvest, consider these tips:

  • Start planting early in September to give your crops enough time to mature.
  • Use row covers or cold frames to protect plants from early frosts.
  • Ensure soil is well-drained and enriched with compost for healthy growth.
  • Water consistently, especially during dry spells, to support rapid growth before the first frost.

With the right varieties and proper care, your September garden in Zone 2 can produce a vibrant and nutritious fall harvest. Happy gardening!