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November marks the end of the growing season in many regions, but it is also a time of harvest and preparation. Knowing what to harvest in November can help you make the most of your garden’s bounty and prepare for the colder months ahead.
Vegetables to Harvest in November
Many vegetables are ready to be harvested in November, especially root vegetables and hardy greens. Keep an eye on your garden for these seasonal staples.
- Carrots: Harvest when they reach the desired size. Use a fork to loosen the soil around the roots before pulling them out.
- Parsnips: Similar to carrots, they can be left in the ground until after the first frost for added sweetness.
- Turnips: Ready when they are about 3-4 inches in diameter. Their flavor improves after a frost.
- Kale: Hardy and cold-tolerant, kale can be harvested throughout November by picking outer leaves.
- Brussels Sprouts: Harvest once the sprouts are firm and dark green, usually after a light frost.
Herbs to Harvest in November
Many herbs continue to thrive into late autumn. Harvesting herbs in November can provide fresh flavors for winter cooking.
- Thyme: Cut back the stems to encourage new growth. Harvest as needed for culinary use.
- Sage: Pick leaves before the first hard frost for the best flavor.
- Parsley: Continue to harvest parsley leaves as long as the plant remains healthy.
- Rosemary: Harvest sprigs for drying or fresh use, especially before the cold weather sets in.
Fruits to Harvest in November
If you have fruit-bearing plants, November can be the time to harvest late-season fruits. Be sure to pick ripe produce for the best flavor.
- Apples: Harvest when they are fully colored and easily detach from the tree.
- Pears: Pick slightly before they are fully ripe; they will ripen off the tree.
- Pomegranates: Harvest when the fruit has a deep color and the skin begins to crack.
- Winter Squash: Harvest when the skin is hard and the fruits have turned deep in color.
Preparing for the Cold Months
After harvesting, it is essential to store your produce properly. Root vegetables can be stored in a cool, dark place, while herbs can be dried or frozen. Fruits like apples and pears should be kept in a cool, humid environment to prolong freshness.
November is also a good time to plan for the next planting season. Cover crops like clover or vetch can improve soil health over winter, preparing your garden for spring.
Conclusion
Harvesting in November requires attention to the changing weather and plant readiness. By selecting the right crops and storing them properly, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor well into the winter months. Happy harvesting!