Fall into Planting: What to Grow in October in Zone 7A

October in Maryland’s Zone 7A is like nature’s gentle nudge saying, “Hey, you’ve still got time!” While the air turns crisp and pumpkin patches steal the spotlight, your garden still has plenty to offer. At Nemas Gardens, we believe fall isn’t the end of the growing season—it’s a strategic beginning.

What can we grow in October?

With cooler nights and warm soil, the list we prepare of what can we grow in October provides ideal conditions for planting cool-season vegetables like spinach, kale, lettuce, radishes, turnips, and carrots. These crops thrive in the chill and often taste sweeter after a light frost. It’s also the perfect time to plant garlic and onion sets, which will establish roots before winter and reward you in the spring.

Beyond veggies, October is prime time for planting spring-flowering bulbs such as daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, and crocus. These beauties need the cold to bloom brilliantly come spring. Perennials like coneflowers, hostas, and lilies also benefit from a fall planting, giving them time to settle in before the freeze. Herbs like cilantro, parsley, chervil, and sorrel don’t mind the cooler temperatures either and can add fresh flavor to your fall dishes. If you’re thinking ahead, now’s a great moment to plant strawberries and rhubarb for a fruitful spring, or sow cover crops like clover and rye to enrich your soil while it rests.

To make the most of October, start planting early in the month before the first frost hits, usually in late October or early November. So grab your gloves, sip that cider, and let your garden thrive.

From all of us at Nemas Gardens—happy planting!