8 Vegetables to Grow at Home as the Weather Turns Cool

6 November, 2024

The most noticeable temperature change occurs in late November, especially in the North, where temperatures will drop below 15 degrees Celsius, while other regions will experience temperatures below 22 degrees Celsius. The temperature will gradually increase in January or February. The following vegetables are perfect for home gardening during this season:

1. Kohlrabi, Cabbage, and Cauliflower

These vegetables are familiar to most people, but many don’t know that cauliflower can also thrive during the winter months.

However, they should be planted in nutrient-rich soil, with ample sunlight, and protected from leaf-eating pests.

These vegetables are cold-hardy and can survive temperatures as low as 0 degrees Celsius. They are typically planted from September to October and take about three months to mature.

2. Chinese Cabbage

Chinese cabbage is planted from August to January, as the weather starts to cool down. After two months, you can harvest fresh, crisp heads of Chinese cabbage.

3. Radishes

Farmers typically harvest radishes in late autumn or early spring. However, this harvest extends into the winter months.

Radishes can tolerate temperatures as low as 0 degrees Celsius without any issues, making them a great choice for winter harvesting.

4. Chrysanthemum Greens

Plant chrysanthemum greens towards the end of winter to enjoy them in the spring.

Chrysanthemum greens (Sheng Cai) require minimal care, have few pest problems, and grow quickly. They are commonly used in soups, salads, and hot pots for their sweet and refreshing taste.

Simply water the plants daily. You’ll be able to harvest them in as little as 30 days.

5. Water Spinach

Water spinach, also known as morning glory, is sweet, fragrant, crisp, and easy to prepare. It is commonly grown in the North.

Water spinach can be grown in soil or hydroponically and will thrive either way. After a few weeks of planting, your family meals will be filled with fresh and safe water spinach.

6. Choy Sum

Choy sum is a familiar vegetable to many families, and it only takes about 20-25 days to grow. It is also resistant to pests and can withstand cold weather.

7. Lettuce

Lettuce leaves may seem delicate, but they actually thrive in cold weather. In fact, lettuce grows better during the winter months.

8. Herbs for Winter Gardening

Herbs like coriander, green onions, and basil are easy to grow during the cold season. After 30 days of sowing seeds and regular watering, you can harvest fresh, green herbs.

Remember to keep the area weed-free for easier harvesting, better plant growth, and to prevent insect damage.

For coriander, gently crush the seeds to help them split in half. You can sow them directly into the soil or soak them in warm water (37 degrees Celsius) for 6 hours before sowing to speed up germination.