These Vegetables Take a Chill

Discover the cool weather vegetables, like broccoli, that thrive in spring and fall temperatures These are divided into groups called hardy & semi-hardy.

Fall gardens include many beautiful and nutritious vegetables that tolerate cold.

Not all vegetables need the warmth of summer to thrive. Cool weather vegetables, such as broccoli, kale, and lettuce, prefer the lower temperatures found in spring and fall. These vegetables are divided into two groups: "hardy" and "semi-hardy."

Hardy vegetables tolerate hard frosts (usually 25 to 28 degrees F). They taste best in cool weather, making them perfect for fall harvests and growing through the winter in many warmer regions. See the USDA Freeze Map for the approximate date of the first freeze in your area. This will give you an idea of how long your harvest season will last, because many of these hardy vegetables will continue growing and producing in the garden for weeks after the first hard frost.
  • Arugula
  • Broccoli
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Collards
  • Kale
  • Spinach
  • Turnip
  • Garlic*
  • Radishes*

Semi-hardy vegetables tolerate light frosts (usually 29 to 32 degrees F) late into fall and through winter in mild climates. Give them a try this fall!

  • Cabbage
  • Cauliflower
  • English peas
  • Kohlrabi
  • Leeks
  • Lettuce
  • Mustard greens
  • Onions
  • Rutabaga
  • Swiss chard
  • Beets*
  • Carrots*
  • Celery*
  • Endive*

Please note that the sale of Bonnie's fall varieties is limited to specific regions throughout the country. Check with your local Home Depot, Lowe's, Walmart, or independent garden center for availability. Find your nearest Bonnie retailer here.

* These cool weather vegetables are not available from Bonnie, but we included them for your knowledge. Many can be started directly from seed.