Cold Weather Vegetables
Early in the season you’ll find a variety of vegetables that can be planted in the beginning of April, strong enough to take the cold weather. Crops that can be planted early include: asparagus, beets, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celeriac, celery, garlic, globe artichoke, kale, kohlrabi, leeks, lettuce, onions, parsnips, peas, potatoes, radishes, rhubarb, rutabagas, spinach, swiss chard, and turnips. You can also plant some of these again in late summer and early fall for one more harvest before winter returns. In the fall season, a light frost actually enhances the flavor in brussel sprouts, carrots, parsnips, rutabagas and turnips. Asparagus, globe artichokes and rhubarb are perennial crops, meaning they come back on their own year after year. Most other varieties need protection from the frost. Remember: It is never too early to start vegetables and herbs and they can be grown year round as long as they are in the required temperature and light. This may require some protection from the frost until the weather warms up consistently. Keep plants covered until danger of frost is gone.