What to Plant in September
Detroit, MI · Zone 6a
Last frost: Apr 25
Frost-free days: 178
The first frost is approaching. Finish up fall plantings and protect tender crops. Garlic goes in the ground this month or next. Harvest and preserve summer bounty.
September at a Glance
Indoor
Transplant
Direct Sow
1
5
10
15
20
25
Cilantro
Beet
Peas
Radish
Swiss Chard
Turnip
Transplant 1
Move these seedlings from indoors to your garden beds.
Swiss Chard
Apr 1 – Sep 8
4 per sq ft
50–60 days
Direct Sow 5
Plant these seeds directly into the soil outdoors.
Beet
Mar 24 – Sep 15
9 per sq ft
50–70 days
Turnip
Mar 24 – Sep 30
9 per sq ft
30–60 days
Peas
Aug 9 – Sep 8
8 per sq ft
55–70 days
Cilantro
Sep 1–30
9 per sq ft
30–45 days
Radish
Sep 1 – Oct 8
16 per sq ft
22–30 days
September Gardening Tips
- Swiss Chard can be transplanted outside this month. Harden off seedlings over 5–7 days before planting out.
- Direct sow Peas, Beet, Radish straight into the garden — no transplanting needed.
- Protect tender crops from early frost with row cover — this can extend your season by several weeks.
Nearby Cities
Ready to plan your garden?
Add these crops to your garden plan and get personalized planting reminders for Zone 6a.
Start Planning Free