As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp in Oregon, November marks the perfect time for gardeners to plant a variety of crops that thrive in the cooler temperatures. With a strategic planting schedule, you can enjoy fresh produce well into the winter months and even into early spring. Let’s delve into the world of cool-season gardening and explore what to plant in Oregon in November.
Oregon’s diverse climate, ranging from maritime in the west to high desert in the east, offers a wide range of planting opportunities. In the western part of the state, USDA Hardiness Zones range from 8a to 9b, while the eastern regions fall into zones 5a to 7b. This guide will focus on the most common hardiness zones in Oregon, providing you with a robust list of crops to plant in November.
Vegetables
November is an ideal time to plant a variety of vegetables that prefer cooler temperatures and even frost. These crops will mature and be ready for harvest in late winter or early spring, providing you with a fresh supply of produce during the off-season.
When planting vegetables in November, ensure you choose varieties that are specifically bred for fall planting and winter hardiness. Look for seed packets or plant descriptions that mention ‘winter hardy’ or ‘fall planting’ to maximize your success.
Root Vegetables
Root vegetables are an excellent choice for fall planting in Oregon. They thrive in cooler temperatures and can often withstand light frosts, making them perfect for November planting. Some popular root vegetables to consider include:
- Carrots: Plant in late September to early November for a spring harvest. Choose varieties like ‘Paris Market’ or ‘Danvers 126’.
- Beets: Plant in late September to early November. ‘Detroit Dark Red’ or ‘Chioggia’ are great choices.
- Radishes: Plant in late September to early November. ‘Cherry Belle’ or ‘French Breakfast’ are quick-growing options.
- Turnips: Plant in late September to early November. ‘Hakurei’ or ‘Tokyo Cross’ are popular varieties.
Prepare your soil by working in plenty of compost or well-rotted manure to ensure it’s rich in nutrients. Plant seeds at the recommended depth, usually 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep, and keep the soil consistently moist until germination occurs.
Brassicas
Brassicas, such as cabbages, kale, and broccoli, are cool-season crops that can be planted in late summer or early fall for a winter harvest. In Oregon, November is an ideal time to plant these crops, as they prefer cooler temperatures and can even tolerate light frosts.
- Cabbage: Plant in late September to early November. ‘Savoy Perfection’ or ‘Red Acre’ are popular varieties.
- Kale: Plant in late September to early November. ‘Lacinato’ or ‘Red Russian’ are cold-hardy options.
- Broccoli: Plant in late September to early November. ‘Calabrese’ or ‘Romanesco’ are good choices.
When planting brassicas, ensure you rotate your crops annually to prevent disease and maintain soil health. Brassicas are heavy feeders, so enrich your soil with compost or a balanced fertilizer before planting.
Fruits
While November is too late to plant most fruit trees in Oregon, there are a few options for berry plants that can be established in the fall and will reward you with a harvest next year.
When selecting fruit plants, choose varieties that are well-suited to your specific hardiness zone and have a proven track record of success in Oregon. Consult with local nurseries or extension services for recommendations on the best fruit plants for your area.
Berries
Berries are an excellent choice for fall planting in Oregon. Many berry plants are dormant in the fall, making it an ideal time to plant and establish them in your garden. Some berry plants to consider include:
- Raspberries: Plant in late September to early November. ‘Boyne’ or ‘Heritage’ are popular varieties.
- Blackberries: Plant in late September to early November. ‘Triple Crown’ or ‘Apache’ are thornless options.
- Blueberries: Plant in late September to early November. ‘Northblue’ or ‘Bluecrop’ are good choices for Oregon.
Prepare your soil by working in plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. Most berry plants prefer acidic soil, with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. Test your soil pH and amend as necessary before planting.
As you plan your fall garden in Oregon, remember that the key to success is choosing the right plants for your specific hardiness zone and providing them with the care they need to thrive. By selecting the appropriate vegetables, fruits, and berries, you can create a bountiful garden that will provide you with fresh produce well into the winter months and even into early spring.
Embrace the joy of cool-season gardening and watch as your fall-planted crops flourish in Oregon’s crisp autumn air. Happy gardening!
