What to Plant in September

USDA Zone 6a

Last frost: Apr 1 – Apr 15 Frost-free days: 170–190

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
Spinach
Radishes
Turnips

Direct Sow 3

Plant these seeds directly into the soil outdoors.

Radishes
Radishes
Mar 15 – Sep 15
16 per sq ft 22–30 days
Turnips
Turnips
Aug 1 – Sep 1
9 per sq ft 30–60 days
Spinach
Spinach
Sep 1–15
9 per sq ft 35–50 days

September Gardening Tips

  • Direct sow Spinach, Radishes, Turnips straight into the garden — no transplanting needed.
  • Protect tender crops from early frost with row cover — this can extend your season by several weeks.

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