Vegetables to Plant in October | Fall Planting Guide for U.S. Gardeners

Why October is a Great Month for Planting

Many new gardeners assume October marks the end of planting season, but in reality, it’s the perfect time to grow cool-weather vegetables. With shorter days and cooler nights, fall conditions give leafy greens and root crops an advantage: they thrive in mild weather, resist bolting, and often taste sweeter after a light frost.

If you’re looking to extend your growing season, this fall planting guide will show you exactly what vegetables to plant in October and where to buy the freshest 2026 seed packets to get started.

Top Vegetables to Plant in October

Lettuce

Lettuce is one of the easiest vegetables to grow in fall. Cooler weather prevents bitterness, and leaves stay crisp well into the season.

• Best varieties for fall: Romaine, Butterhead, and Leaf lettuce
• Time to harvest: 30 - 60 days
• Pro tip: Plant every 2 - 3 weeks for a steady harvest through late fall.

Shop Lettuce Seeds for fresh 2026 packets perfect for October planting.

 

Radish

Fast-growing and frost-tolerant, radishes are a fall garden favorite. They mature quickly, making them perfect for October planting before the ground freezes.

• Best varieties for fall: Cherry Belle, White Icicle, French Breakfast
• Time to harvest: 25 - 35 days
• Pro tip: Sow radish seeds every 10 days for continuous crops.

Shop Radish Seeds and enjoy crisp, peppery harvests in just a few weeks.

 

Spinach

Spinach thrives in cooler weather and can even survive under light frost. Many gardeners plant spinach in October for late-fall harvests or overwintering to sprout again in spring.

• Best varieties for fall: Bloomsdale Long Standing, Winter Giant
• Time to harvest: 35 - 50 days
• Pro tip: Mulch young spinach plants to protect them through the first frosts.

Shop Spinach Seeds for fresh, nutrient-packed greens.

Other Vegetables to Plant in October

Depending on your growing zone, you can also plant:

• Kale – another frost-hardy leafy green with improved flavor after cold snaps
• Carrots – if your region has a long fall, carrots can still be direct-sown in October

Fall Planting Guide: Tips for Success

• Know your frost date: Check your USDA hardiness zone to determine how late you can plant.
• Use row covers: Extend the season by protecting crops from frost.
• Plant in succession: Sow seeds every 1 - 2 weeks for staggered harvests.
• Choose fresh seed stock: Fresh seeds means higher germination rates, especially critical for fall crops.

Explore All 2026 Seed Packets Here - shipped nationwide so you can start planting today!

Why Buy Fresh 2026 Seeds for Fall Planting?

At Bentley Seeds, we’ve already flipped to 2026 seed packets, ensuring customers across the U.S. have access to the freshest stock. Freshness matters because:

• Seeds last 18 – 24 months in storage
• Buying early ensures your fall garden thrives and you’re stocked for spring 2026
• Nationwide shipping means gardeners in every region can plant confidently this October

FAQs: Vegetables to Plant in October

Q: What vegetables grow best in October?

Lettuce, radish, spinach, and kale are top choices for fall planting in most U.S. zones.

Q: Can I plant seeds in October in the U.S.?

Yes! Cool-season crops thrive in fall. Just check your local frost date and consider row covers for protection.

Q: Do I need special fall seeds?

Not necessarily. Fresh 2026 seeds from Bentley Seeds work for both fall planting and spring.

Final Thoughts: Don’t End Your Season Early

October is a second chance for gardeners. Instead of packing up your tools, use this month to grow lettuce, radish, spinach, and other cool-season crops. With Bentley Seeds’ fresh 2026 seed packets, your fall garden will flourish and you’ll be set for next year too.

Ready to get growing? Shop 2026 Seeds Now and extend your garden season today.