In The Garden — cool season vegetables

Download | How to Grow Kale in Canada | Complete Guide (PDF) Kale is one of the most dependable leafy vegetables to grow from seed in Canada. This cold-hardy member of the cabbage family thrives during the cooler temperatures of spring and fall, tolerates frost, and can provide fresh, nutritious leaves long after many summer vegetables have finished producing. Whether you're growing your first vegetable garden or looking to extend your harvest into autumn, kale is an excellent choice. When should you plant kale in Canada? For an early spring harvest, start seeds indoors approximately 4 to 6 weeks before...

Carrots are one of the most rewarding cool-season vegetables to grow from seed in Canada. They take up relatively little garden space, tolerate cool spring weather, and can provide harvests from early summer through late autumn. Download | How to Grow Carrots in Canada | Complete Growing Guide (PDF) The secret to growing great carrots begins below the surface. Loose, well-drained soil allows roots to develop properly, while consistent moisture is particularly important during germination. Seedlings also need enough room to grow, making thinning an essential part of producing healthy, well-shaped carrots. Unlike tomatoes and peppers, carrots do not need...

Many gardeners think the growing season ends as soon as summer fades, but some of the most rewarding harvests happen in the crisp, cool days of autumn. In fact, many vegetables not only tolerate cooler temperatures—they actually thrive in them. Shorter days, cool air, and light frosts can dramatically improve the flavor and texture of many crops, making autumn one of the most fulfilling times to work in the garden. Whether you are planting a dedicated second-crop garden or simply looking to extend your harvest, these cold-hardy varieties will keep your garden productive well into the cooler months. What Are...

April is an exciting month for gardeners across Canada. As the soil begins to thaw and temperatures slowly rise, many cool-season vegetables can be planted directly into the garden. While warm-weather crops must wait until later in the season, several hardy vegetables actually prefer the cool temperatures of early spring. Planting these crops in April allows gardeners to enjoy early harvests before the heat of summer arrives. Pro Tip: Many of these vegetables, specifically Kale and Spinach, produce higher sugar content as a natural "antifreeze" during April's chilly nights, making your early spring harvest taste significantly sweeter than store-bought options....