October Planting Guide: Best Vegetable & Herb Seeds to Start

By Ryan Dorn, SouthernSeeds.com

Ah, October - a month where gardens often take a breath under a blanket of colorful fall leaves. While many gardeners see it as a time to start putting away their tools and preparing for winter, others know that this month still holds plenty of vibrant life and potential for planting. From the balmy climates of the southern zones to the brisk northern locales, October unveils a treasure trove of vegetables and herbs, ripe for sowing, promising a continuation of fresh, home-grown produce.

It’s crucial to note that this guide is a starting point, offering a curated list to kick-start your October gardening, but it’s not exhaustive. Also, remember: USDA zones are invaluable tools but they aren't rigid rules. A single zone, like Zone 7, might include varied terrains such as coastlines, mountains, and plains, each with distinct challenges and opportunities. Make use of our recommendations, but always allow room for the unique nuances of your local environment. For a more detailed exploration of USDA zones, dive into our comprehensive guide here.

Let’s explore what each USDA hardiness zone has in store for October planting.

Zone 10:

For those fortunate enough to be gardening in Zone 10, October is a time of abundance. The mild climate means a long list of vegetables and herbs are eager to be sown. In many respects, this time of the year is equivalent to the spring gardening rush for our northern friends. From peppery arugula, earthy beets, and the Asian delight bok choy to the vibrant greens of chard and kale, your garden is poised to be a mosaic of flavors. Herbs like cilantro and parsley can also be introduced, and don’t forget the ever-popular peas and crunchy radishes. If you're gardening in this zone, here are some delightful picks to consider planting this October:

• Arugula
• Beets
• Bok Choy
• Carrots
• Chard
• Cilantro
• Collard Greens
• Endive
• Kale
• Kohlrabi
• Lettuce
• Mustard Greens
• Parsley
• Peas
• Radishes
• Spinach
• Turnips

Zone 9:

Just a tad cooler than its southern counterpart, Zone 9 still enjoys a generous planting window in October. While the evenings might be cooler, the days are perfect for a variety of crops. For those looking to maximize their garden's yield in this region, consider sowing the following:

• Arugula
• Beets
• Bok Choy
• Carrots
• Chard
• Cilantro
• Collard Greens
• Kale
• Kohlrabi
• Lettuce
• Mustard Greens
• Parsley
• Peas
• Radishes
• Spinach
• Turnips

Zone 8:

Zone 8 gardeners experience a delightful overlap of summer's end and the onset of cooler weather, making it perfect for a blend of vegetables. Plus, it's the right time to think about planting garlic for next year's harvest. For October, here's what you might want to get into the ground:

• Arugula
• Beets
• Bok Choy
• Carrots
• Chard
• Cilantro 
• Collard Greens
• Garlic (planting cloves)
• Kale
• Kohlrabi
• Lettuce
• Mustard Greens
• Parsley
• Peas
• Radishes
• Spinach
• Turnips

Zone 7:

As the temperatures start to show a noticeable drop in Zone 7, there's a mix of cool-loving greens and crucial plantings for spring to consider. Embrace the cooler days by adding these vegetables and herbs to your garden:

• Arugula
• Beets
• Bok Choy
• Carrots
• Chard
• Chives
• Cilantro
• Collard Greens
• Garlic (planting cloves)
• Kale
• Lettuce
• Mustard Greens
• Parsley
• Radishes
• Spinach
• Turnips

Zone 6:

For those in Zone 6, the brisk autumn air starts to set in by October. While the planting list shortens, some key crops can still be introduced, especially those that are quick to mature or can be harvested next spring. If your garden is located in this zone, think about planting the following crops this month:

• Arugula
• Garlic (planting cloves)
• Lettuce (early in the month)
• Radishes (early in the month)
• Spinach

Zone 5:

Zone 5 has a chill in the air, signaling the coming of winter. But, determined gardeners can still plant garlic cloves for next year. For those looking for a green touch, sowing spinach for overwintering can be a great choice.

• Garlic (planting cloves)
• Spinach (for overwintering)
• Shallots
• Perennial Onions

Zone 4 & 3:

The cold-hardened gardens of Zone 3 and 4 have the shortest growing seasons. By October, the focus is largely on setting the stage for the next year. If you're gardening in this chilliest of zones, there's one reliable friend to get in the ground now:

• Garlic (planting cloves)

And There You Have It!

October brings about a wonderful rhythm in the garden, offering fresh possibilities even as many outdoor spaces begin their winter rest. With the right plants and a touch of diligence, your garden can continue to flourish and provide. And remember, Southern Seeds is always here to guide and assist. If you have any questions or concerns, never hesitate to reach out.

For those keen on further guarding their garden against the inevitable chill, make sure to check out our recent blog on combatting frost. Additionally, for a deeper dive into regional gardening, our extensive guide on USDA zones is a must-read. Embrace the season, and happy gardening!