In The Garden — cool season vegetables

Download | How to Grow Kale in Canada | Complete Guide (PDF) Kale is one of the most reliable and cold-hardy vegetables you can grow in a Canadian garden. Unlike heat-loving crops that must wait for summer, kale thrives during the cool temperatures of spring and fall and can continue producing well after many other vegetables have finished for the season. This leafy green is also remarkably versatile. Kale can be direct sown outdoors, started indoors for an earlier harvest, grown in raised beds or containers, and harvested gradually by picking individual leaves. Established plants tolerate frost exceptionally well, and...

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 be planted more than once for harvests stretching from early summer into late fall. Download | How to Grow Carrots in Canada | Complete Guide (PDF) The secret to growing great carrots begins below the surface. Loose, well-drained soil allows roots to grow straight and develop properly, while consistent moisture is particularly important during germination. Carrot seedlings also need enough room to develop, making thinning an essential part of growing a healthy...

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....