September is a peak time to harvest well-earned crops, so households have plenty of homegrown vegetables to keep them going throughout the quieter months.
However, there’s still an abundance of vegetables waiting to be grown and to make the most of sunny days and warm evenings as summer comes to a close.
There’s a wide range of vegetables to grow in September, and right up until October in fact.
Founder and head landscape designer at Petrus Landscaping, Ward Dilmore, has shared what gardeners should be planting this month that are easy to grow. He told Express.co.uk: “Planting vegetables in September can be a breeze, especially if you choose the right varieties.”
Here are some of the “easiest” vegetables to plant in September along with “simple” planting tips.
1. Lettuce
Lettuce is a cool-season vegetable that thrives in mild autumn weather. Plant loose-leaf or head lettuce seeds directly in well-drained soil.
Ward instructed: “Ensure the soil stays consistently moist, and you’ll have fresh, crisp salads in a few weeks. Varieties like ‘Buttercrunch’ and ‘Red Romaine’ are reliable choices.”
2. Spring onions
Spring onions are “quick-growing and require minimal effort”. Plant spring onion sets or seeds in well-drained soil.
The expert claimed: “They’re ready to harvest when they reach your desired size. You can use both the white and green parts in various dishes.”
3. Radishes
Radishes are known for their “speedy growth”. Gardners can sow radish seeds in loose soil about half an inch deep. They prefer cooler temperatures, making them perfect for this time of year. Ward noted: “Varieties like ‘Champion’ and ‘French Breakfast’ are quick to mature and add a zesty kick to salads.”
4. Spinach
Spinach is another cool-season favourite. Plant spinach seeds in well-drained soil, and keep it evenly moist.
The expert claimed: “It’s a versatile green that you can add to salads, sandwiches, or sauté as a side dish. Varieties like ‘Bloomsdale’ and ‘Baby Leaf’ are excellent choices.”
5. Carrots
Carrots are “easy to grow” from seed. Simply plant carrot seeds in loose, well-prepared soil, free from stones that can cause misshapen roots.
Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, and thin the seedlings as they grow. Varieties like ‘Nantes’ and ‘Danvers’ are “popular choices”.
6. Kale
Kale is a “robust” leafy green that can withstand cooler temperatures. Directly sow kale seeds in rich, well-drained soil.
Once established, kale plants “require minimal care”. Varieties like ‘Lacinato’ (or dinosaur kale) and ‘Winterbor’ are “hardy options”.
7. Beetroot
Beetroot are forgiving and can “thrive” in various soil types. Sow beet seeds in well-drained soil, and keep the area consistently moist. Varieties like ‘Detroit Dark Red’ and ‘Golden’ offer “vibrant colours”.