Unlock a Bountiful Harvest: Best Vegetables to Grow in November in Southern US (Zones 8–11)

Introduction: Why November is Prime Planting Season in the Southern US

While gardeners in northern climates are putting their tools away for winter, southern gardeners in USDA hardiness zones 8–11 are experiencing one of the most productive planting seasons of the year. November offers an exceptional opportunity to grow vegetables in the Southern US, thanks to mild winter temperatures, reduced pest pressure, and ideal growing conditions for cool-season crops.

The Southern US, encompassing states like Texas, Florida, Louisiana, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, the Carolinas, and southern California, enjoys a unique climate advantage. With average winter temperatures rarely dipping below 20°F in zone 8 and staying consistently warmer in zones 9–11, November becomes a strategic month for establishing a thriving winter vegetable garden that will produce fresh, nutritious harvests well into spring.

This comprehensive guide reveals exactly which vegetables to grow in November in Southern US zones 8–11, along with expert techniques to maximize your yield, protect your plants, and enjoy homegrown produce when grocery store prices peak.

Understanding USDA Zones 8–11: Your Southern Gardening Advantage

Climate Characteristics of Southern Zones

USDA hardiness zones 8–11 represent some of the most favorable winter growing climates in the United States. Each zone features distinct temperature ranges that directly impact vegetable selection:

• Zone 8 (10°F to 20°F minimum): Covers northern Texas, northern Louisiana, northern Mississippi, northern Alabama, northern Georgia, and inland areas of the Carolinas
• Zone 9 (20°F to 30°F minimum): Includes central Texas, Houston area, central Florida, coastal Carolinas, coastal Georgia, southern Alabama, southern Mississippi, and parts of southern California
• Zone 10 (30°F to 40°F minimum): Encompasses southern Florida, southernmost Texas, and coastal southern California
• Zone 11 (40°F and above minimum): Limited to the Florida Keys and small pockets of southern California

Why Mild Winters Matter for November Planting

The relatively mild winters across zones 8–11 create an extended growing season that transforms November from a dormant month into prime planting time. Cool-season vegetables thrive in temperatures between 40°F and 70°F—exactly what southern winters provide. These conditions offer several advantages:

• Reduced heat stress on transplants and seedlings
• Lower water requirements compared to summer gardening
• Minimal pest and disease pressure
• Slower, more flavorful development of leafy greens and root vegetables
• Opportunity for continuous harvests through winter and early spring

Understanding your specific microclimate within these zones—including elevation, proximity to water bodies, and urban heat island effects—will help you fine-tune your November planting strategy for optimal results.

Preparing Your Garden for November Planting: Set the Foundation for Success

Essential Soil Preparation Techniques

November vegetable success begins with proper soil preparation. Cool-season crops demand nutrient-rich, well-draining soil with excellent structure:

Soil Amendment Steps:

• Test soil pH and aim for 6.0–7.0 for most vegetables (slightly higher for brassicas)
• Incorporate 2–4 inches of aged compost or well-rotted manure into planting beds
• Add organic matter to improve drainage in heavy clay soils common throughout the South
• Consider raised beds in areas with poor drainage or compacted soil
• Mix in a balanced organic fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) following package directions

Winter Garden Precautions and Protection

Even in mild southern climates, occasional cold snaps require preparation:

• Frost protection materials: Keep frost cloth, row covers, or blankets readily available for unexpected freezes
• Mulching strategy: Apply 2–3 inches of organic mulch around plants to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture
• Windbreaks: Install temporary barriers or plant near existing structures to protect tender transplants from cold north winds
• Irrigation access: Ensure hoses and watering systems remain functional during cooler months

Must-Have Tools and Supplies

Equip yourself with these essentials for November planting success:

• High-quality transplants or fresh seeds from reputable suppliers
• Soil thermometer to verify soil temperatures (ideally 50°F+ for most crops)
• Transplanting trowel and broadfork for bed preparation
• Floating row covers in various weights (0.5 oz for light frost, 1.5 oz for hard freezes)
• Organic liquid fertilizer for supplemental feeding
• Drip irrigation or soaker hoses for consistent moisture delivery

Best Vegetables to Plant in November (Zones 8–11): Your Complete Planting Guide

November presents an extraordinary window to establish vegetables that will thrive through winter. Here are the top performers for southern gardens:

Leafy Greens: The November Superstars

Lettuce (All Varieties) Lettuce flourishes in November’s cooler temperatures, developing crisp texture and sweet flavor impossible to achieve in summer heat. Plant both transplants and seeds for staggered harvests.

Quick Tips:

• Choose heat-tolerant varieties like ‘Jericho’ or ‘Summertime’ for zones 10–11
• Succession plant every 2–3 weeks for continuous harvests
• Harvest outer leaves for extended production
• Expect maturity in 30–60 days depending on variety

Spinach This nutritional powerhouse thrives in southern winters, offering superior flavor and vitamin content when grown in cool weather.

Quick Tips:

• Direct sow seeds ½ inch deep in rows or broadcast over prepared beds
• Select bolt-resistant varieties like ‘Tyee’ or ‘Space’
• Thin seedlings to 4–6 inches apart
• Begin harvesting in 35–45 days

Kale and Collards These brassica relatives are southern garden staples, improving in flavor after light frosts touch their leaves.

Quick Tips:

• Transplant 4–6 week old seedlings or direct sow
• Space plants 12–18 inches apart for full-size heads
• Remove lower yellowing leaves to encourage continued growth
• Harvest begins in 55–75 days from seed, earlier from transplants

Arugula This peppery green grows rapidly in cool weather and adds zesty flavor to salads and cooked dishes.

Quick Tips:

• Broadcast seeds over prepared soil and lightly rake in
• Thin to 4 inches apart once seedlings emerge
• Harvest entire plants or cut-and-come-again style
• Ready in just 21–40 days

Brassicas: Cold-Hardy Powerhouses

Broccoli and Cauliflower November is the ideal time to establish these nutrient-dense vegetables for late winter and early spring harvests.

Quick Tips:

• Use transplants for faster establishment in zones 8–9
• Space 18–24 inches apart in full sun
• Provide consistent moisture for head development
• Expect harvest in 55–80 days from transplanting

Cabbage This versatile crop stores well and tolerates temperature fluctuations better than most brassicas.

Quick Tips:

• Transplant 4–6 week old seedlings 12–18 inches apart
• Choose varieties suited to your zone (early types for warmer zones)
• Monitor for cabbage loopers and use row covers if needed
• Harvest in 70–90 days when heads feel firm

Brussels Sprouts While requiring a longer season, November planting in zones 8–11 allows for impressive spring harvests.

Quick Tips:

• Transplant sturdy seedlings 24 inches apart
• Best suited for zones 8–9 where they’ll experience some cold
• Remove lower leaves as sprouts develop
• Harvest from bottom up when sprouts reach 1–2 inches

Root Vegetables: Underground Treasures

Carrots November-planted carrots develop exceptional sweetness as they mature through cooler months.

Quick Tips:

• Direct sow in loose, rock-free soil for straight roots
• Thin seedlings to 2–3 inches apart
• Choose shorter varieties like ‘Danvers’ or ‘Chantenay’ for heavy soils
• Harvest in 60–80 days

Radishes These fast-growing roots provide quick satisfaction for impatient gardeners.

Quick Tips:

• Direct sow seeds ½ inch deep and 1 inch apart
• Succession plant every 10–14 days
• Harvest when roots reach desired size (usually 25–30 days)
• Try both standard and winter radish varieties

Beets Both roots and greens offer excellent nutrition and culinary versatility.

Quick Tips:

• Soak seeds overnight before planting to improve germination
• Thin to 3–4 inches apart and use thinnings in salads
• Harvest baby beets at 1–2 inches or mature at 2–3 inches
• Ready in 50–70 days

Turnips A southern garden tradition, turnips produce both edible roots and nutritious greens.

Quick Tips:

• Direct sow seeds in rows or broadcast over beds
• Thin to 4–6 inches for root production
• Harvest greens anytime; roots in 40–60 days
• Extremely cold-tolerant across all zones

Alliums: Flavorful Foundations

Onions (Short-Day Varieties) November is prime time for establishing onion sets or transplants in southern gardens.

Quick Tips:

• Choose short-day varieties like ‘Texas 1015’ or ‘Vidalia’ for zones 8–11
• Plant sets 1 inch deep and 4–6 inches apart
• Hill soil around developing bulbs as they grow
• Harvest in late spring (180–210 days total)

Garlic While typically planted in October, early November still allows successful garlic establishment in zones 9–11.

Quick Tips:

• Plant individual cloves 2 inches deep and 6 inches apart
• Choose softneck varieties for southern climates
• Mulch heavily after planting
• Harvest in late spring to early summer

Leeks These mild alliums thrive in southern winter conditions.

Quick Tips:

• Transplant seedlings 6 inches apart in trenches
• Gradually fill trench as leeks grow to blanch stems
• Very cold-tolerant across all zones
• Harvest in 90–120 days

Peas and Legumes: Nitrogen-Fixing Favorites

English Peas (Garden Peas) November planting ensures productive pea vines before spring heat arrives.

Quick Tips:

• Direct sow 1–2 inches deep along trellises or fencing
• Inoculate seeds with rhizobia bacteria for best results
• Provide support structures as vines grow
• Harvest in 60–70 days

Sugar Snap and Snow Peas These edible-pod varieties excel in southern winter gardens.

Quick Tips:

• Plant along fences or on sturdy trellises
• Harvest pods daily once production begins
• More heat-tolerant than English peas for zones 10–11
• Ready in 55–65 days

Herbs: Fresh Flavors Year-Round

Cilantro (Coriander) This cool-season herb thrives in November plantings and bolts quickly in spring heat.

Quick Tips:

• Direct sow seeds and thin to 6 inches apart
• Succession plant every 3–4 weeks for continuous harvests
• Harvest leaves before flowering begins
• Matures in 45–70 days

Parsley Both flat-leaf and curly varieties establish well in November.

Quick Tips:

• Soak seeds overnight before planting to speed germination
• Transplant or direct sow 8–10 inches apart
• Extremely cold-hardy across all zones
• Begin harvesting outer leaves in 70–90 days

Tips for Success: Maximizing Your November Garden Performance

Strategic Watering in Cool Weather

Cool-season vegetables require different watering approaches than summer crops:

• Water deeply but less frequently—typically once or twice weekly depending on rainfall
• Water in morning hours to allow foliage to dry before evening
• Monitor soil moisture 2–3 inches below surface before watering
• Reduce watering frequency as temperatures drop
• Increase water for brassicas during head formation

Fertilizing for Optimal Growth

Proper nutrition ensures vigorous growth and abundant harvests:

• Apply balanced organic fertilizer at planting time
• Side-dress leafy greens with nitrogen-rich amendments (like blood meal) every 3–4 weeks
• Provide phosphorus boost for root vegetables using bone meal or rock phosphate
• Use liquid fish emulsion or compost tea for foliar feeding every 2–3 weeks
• Reduce fertilization frequency in coldest months when growth slows

Succession Planting Strategy

Extend your harvest window by planting in waves:

• Sow fast-growing crops like lettuce, radishes, and arugula every 2–3 weeks
• Stagger transplanting of slower crops like broccoli and cabbage
• Plant multiple varieties with different maturity dates
• Reserve garden space for late November and December plantings
• Track planting dates to optimize future gardens

Frost Protection Techniques

Even mild southern winters occasionally deliver surprise freezes:

• Monitor local weather forecasts closely from November through March
• Cover tender crops with row covers when temperatures threaten to drop below 32°F
• Water soil thoroughly before frost events—moist soil retains heat better
• Remove covers during sunny days to prevent overheating
• Use cloches or cold frames for extra protection in zone 8
• Most November-planted vegetables tolerate light frosts without protection

Pest and Disease Management

Cool weather reduces but doesn’t eliminate pest pressure:

• Monitor for cabbage loopers, aphids, and slugs on brassicas and leafy greens
• Use row covers as physical barriers against flying insects
• Handpick larger pests in early morning when they’re sluggish
• Encourage beneficial insects by planting flowers like alyssum and calendula
• Practice crop rotation to minimize soil-borne diseases
• Ensure proper spacing for air circulation to prevent fungal issues

Planning Ahead: Enjoying and Harvesting Winter Crops

Understanding Harvest Timelines

Knowing when to expect harvests helps with meal planning and succession planting:

Quick Producers (3–6 weeks):

• Radishes: 25–30 days
• Arugula: 21–40 days
• Baby lettuce: 30–35 days

Medium Season (6–10 weeks):

• Spinach: 35–45 days
• Mature lettuce: 50–60 days
• Turnips: 40–60 days
• Beets: 50–70 days
• Carrots: 60–80 days

Long Season (10+ weeks):

• Broccoli: 55–80 days from transplant
• Cabbage: 70–90 days
• Brussels sprouts: 90–110 days
• Onions: 180–210 days
• Garlic: 210–240 days

Harvest Techniques for Extended Production

Maximize yields with proper harvesting methods:

• Cut-and-come-again: Harvest outer leaves of lettuce, kale, and chard while leaving growing centers intact
• Successive harvests: Pick peas, beans, and root vegetables as they mature to encourage continued production
• Thinning harvests: Use thinned seedlings in salads and microgreen dishes
• Strategic timing: Harvest in morning after dew dries for best flavor and storage life
• Clean cuts: Use sharp scissors or knives to avoid damaging plants

Preservation and Storage

Extend the bounty beyond harvest day:

• Store root vegetables in cool, humid conditions (refrigerator crisper or root cellar)
• Blanch and freeze leafy greens for long-term storage
• Dehydrate herbs like parsley and cilantro
• Ferment cabbage into sauerkraut or kimchi
• Can or pickle beets, turnips, and other root crops
• Share excess harvests with neighbors, food banks, or community organizations

Preparing Garden Beds for Spring

As winter crops finish, prepare for spring planting:

• Remove spent plants promptly to prevent pest and disease carryover
• Add fresh compost to replenish soil nutrients
• Plant cover crops in areas that won’t be replanted immediately
• Document what worked well for future November plantings
• Begin planning spring garden layouts and seed orders

Resources and Regional Extension Offices: Expert Support Near You

State Extension Services

Your local Cooperative Extension office provides invaluable, research-based information specific to your area:

• Texas A&M AgriLife Extension: Region-specific planting calendars and vegetable guides
• University of Florida IFAS Extension: County-by-county gardening resources
• LSU AgCenter: Louisiana-specific planting dates and variety recommendations
• Clemson Cooperative Extension: South Carolina vegetable gardening guides
• NC State Extension: North Carolina regional planting calendars
• UGA Extension: Georgia zone-specific vegetable information
• Alabama Cooperative Extension System: Regional gardening calendars
• Mississippi State University Extension: Planting guides for all Mississippi zones
• UC Master Gardener Program: California regional vegetable information

Local Planting Calendars and Tools

Access free resources tailored to your specific zone:

• County extension office planting calendars
• State-specific vegetable planting guides (available online)
• Regional gardening forums and social media groups
• Local master gardener associations
• Community garden networks
• Independent nursery consultation services
• Seed company regional planting guides

Additional Learning Opportunities

Expand your knowledge through:

• Extension office workshops and webinars
• Master Gardener volunteer programs and training
• Local garden club meetings and plant swaps
• Community garden educational events
• Online university extension videos and publications
• Regional gardening conferences and symposiums

Conclusion: Embrace Year-Round Gardening in the Southern US

The opportunity to grow vegetables in November in the Southern US represents one of the greatest advantages of gardening in zones 8–11. While much of the country prepares for dormancy, southern gardeners can establish productive vegetable gardens that deliver fresh, nutritious harvests throughout winter and into spring.

By selecting the right vegetables for November planting—from quick-growing leafy greens to long-season brassicas and alliums—and following proven techniques for soil preparation, frost protection, and succession planting, you’ll unlock a bountiful harvest that transforms your winter dining table and reduces grocery expenses when produce prices peak.

The mild winters characteristic of the Southern US aren’t just a weather pattern—they’re an invitation to garden year-round, connect with the seasons, and enjoy the unmatched flavor of homegrown vegetables even in January and February. Whether you’re establishing your first winter garden or you’re a seasoned southern gardener, November offers the perfect moment to plant, nurture, and look forward to the rewarding harvests ahead.

Grab your transplants, prepare your soil, and step into your garden this November. Your future self—and your dinner table—will thank you for the fresh vegetables you’ll be harvesting while others are browsing the produce aisle. The best time to start growing vegetables in November in the Southern US is right now.