2022 Latest Developments in Home Vegetable Patch
**Gardeners Adapt to Extend Harvest Season with Overwintering and Fall/Winter Crops**
As the autumn leaves begin to fall, gardeners are preparing for a unique harvest season. Instead of winding down, they are gearing up for an extended growing period with the strategic planting of overwintering and fall/winter harvesting crops.
## Overwintering Crops
In the quest to extend the growing season, overwintering crops play a crucial role. These crops are planted in the fall with the intention of surviving the winter months, only to resume growth when temperatures rise again in the spring. Examples of overwintering crops include spinach, garlic, onions, and turnips, with cold-hardy varieties like "Bloomsdale" spinach being commonly used[1][2].
To protect these crops from the harsh winter conditions, gardeners often employ techniques such as mulching with straw or using cold frames to insulate the roots and prevent damage from freeze-thaw cycles[2]. This year, parsnips (Tender and True, Gladiator), carrots (variety), and even butternut squash are being overwintered for a bountiful harvest in the spring.
## Fall/Winter Harvesting Crops
Fall/winter harvesting crops, on the other hand, are grown specifically for a late fall or early winter harvest. These crops, such as broccoli, cabbage, chard, and Asian greens, need to mature before the first hard frost but can survive light frosts[4][5]. Examples of fall/winter harvest crops planned for this season include kale (Rainbow Lancinato) and broccoli (Santee), as well as spinach (Seaside, Giant Winter) and lettuce (Winter Density, Rouge D'Hiver).
Unlike overwintering crops, fall/winter harvesting crops are planted in late summer or early fall, allowing them to mature before the onset of winter. No protection is needed unless the crop is sensitive to extreme cold[4]. This year, the gardeners are anticipating a bountiful harvest due to the favourable growing conditions, despite the wet and cold spring of 2022.
## Adapting to Challenges
The spring of 2022 was one of the wettest and coldest on record, leading to delays in planting and growth. To combat these challenges, the gardeners have been applying fertilizer at regular intervals to support growth and have been doing more watering compared to previous years.
A consulting session with Seed and Nourish was conducted to gain insights on how to manage the impact of fewer pollinators and the challenges posed by the weather conditions. The gardeners are now planning to sign up for email updates from the website to stay informed about best practices.
## New Additions and Successes
This year, the garden has seen some new additions, including peach and plum trees, as well as raspberries thriving in a corner of the yard. Despite the challenges faced, the gardeners are optimistic about the upcoming harvest season. The author is even considering sharing the post with friends to inspire others to extend their own growing seasons.
References: [1]
In the extended growing period, overwintering crops like spinach, garlic, and turnips are being protected with mulching and cold frames for a spring harvest. Meanwhile, fall/winter harvesting crops such as kale, broccoli, and spinach are being planted for a late fall or early winter harvest, with the author considering sharing this organic lifestyle practice with friends for home-and-garden inspiration.
