Growing Winter Vegetables and Herbs

Our winter climate is ideal for growing a variety of herbs and vegetables. With a little planning and care, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown produce all season long.

Here are some tips for growing winter herbs and vegetables in Northern Arizona:

• Choose the right plants. Some of the best herbs and vegetables to grow in Northern Arizona during the winter include:
  • Herbs: arugula, basil, cilantro, chives, dill, mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary, sage, thyme
  • Vegetables: beets, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, collard greens, kale, lettuce, onions, peas, potatoes, radishes, spinach, swiss chard, turnips
• Prepare your soil. Winter herbs and vegetables need well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy clay, you can improve drainage by adding mulch. You can also plant in raised beds to improve drainage and provide better root aeration.
• Protect your plants from the cold. Winter temperatures in Northern Arizona can be unpredictable, so it's important to protect your plants from the cold. You can do this by covering them with row covers, frost cloth, on cold nights. You can also plant your winter herbs and vegetables in a sheltered location, such as near a south-facing wall or under a tree canopy.
• Water your plants regularly. Winter herbs and vegetables need regular watering, even in the cold weather. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. A good rule of thumb is to water your plants deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is particularly dry.
• Fertilize your plants regularly. Winter herbs and vegetables need regular fertilization to produce a bountiful harvest. You can fertilize your plants with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks.
• Harvest your crops. Most winter herbs and vegetables will be ready to harvest in the late fall or early winter. Be sure to harvest your crops regularly to encourage new growth.

#wattersgardencenter, #wattersgardencenteraz, #mountaingardenerpodcast, #top10gardener,

#wintervegetables, #herbs