November is the month when cool temperatures settle in and the soil retains just enough warmth for fast-growing leafy crops. It’s an ideal time to plant greens that thrive in mild climates, offering fresh harvests throughout the winter. Lettuce, spinach, kale, and arugula are among the top choices for this season.
Why grow leafy vegetables in November?
Cool weather brings out the best in leafy greens. Lower temperatures prevent bolting, reduce pests, and help develop sweeter and more tender leaves. In many regions, November planting ensures a steady supply of healthy, homegrown greens well into early spring.
Best leafy crops to plant in November
Lettuce
Lettuce is one of the easiest and fastest crops to grow in fall. Sow seeds directly or transplant seedlings in loose, fertile soil. Keep the soil evenly moist and harvest outer leaves as needed.
Explore varieties in the lettuce category to find types suited for your region and taste.
Spinach
Spinach thrives in cool weather and can tolerate light frost. Sow seeds directly about 2 cm deep in well-drained soil and thin plants to 15–20 cm apart. Regular harvesting encourages new leaf growth.
Recommended variety: Bloomsdale Long Standing – flavorful, rich in iron, and slow to bolt.
Kale
Kale is a cold-hardy plant that improves in flavor after frost exposure. It provides continuous harvests of nutrient-packed leaves through the winter months.
Recommended variety: Dwarf Blue Curled Vates – compact, productive, and perfect for small gardens.
Arugula
Arugula adds a peppery, fresh flavor to salads and sandwiches. It grows quickly and is ideal for succession planting every 2–3 weeks.
Find options for your garden in the arugula category of OK Seeds.
Tips for growing leafy vegetables successfully
- Prepare beds with compost before planting to boost nutrient availability.
- Maintain consistent watering—moisture stress can make leaves bitter.
- Use mulch to protect roots from sudden temperature changes.
- Harvest frequently to encourage new leaf production.
- Combine different greens for a continuous, varied harvest.
Light and temperature
Most leafy greens prefer full sun but tolerate partial shade in mild climates. Ideal temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C. Protect young seedlings from strong winds or unexpected frosts with floating row covers.
Frequently asked questions
Can I grow leafy greens in containers?
Yes. Use wide, shallow containers with good drainage and nutrient-rich soil. Greens like lettuce and arugula do exceptionally well in pots.
How often should I water in cooler months?
Water lightly but regularly. Overwatering is less likely in cold weather, but avoid waterlogging the roots.
Do I need to fertilize often?
If the soil is rich in compost, fertilize only every 3–4 weeks with an organic liquid fertilizer or compost tea to maintain growth.