Fall Planting Guide - Zone 7
Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Arkansas, New Mexico, Northern Arizona
Zone 7 Fall Key Dates
First Frost: Late October to early November
Planting Window: August - November
Strategy: Extended fall season - maximize it!
August - September
Start with crops that need longer to mature.
| Plant | Action | Timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tomatoes | Transplant | Late July-August | Quick varieties for fall harvest |
| Beans | Direct sow | August | Fast crop, harvest before frost |
| Broccoli | Transplant | August-September | Perfect fall crop |
| Cabbage | Transplant | August-September | Stores well after harvest |
| Cauliflower | Transplant | August-September | Loves cool temps |
September - October
Cool-season crops that thrive in fall weather.
| Plant | Action | Timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lettuce | Direct sow | September-October | Succession plant monthly |
| Spinach | Direct sow | September-October | Can overwinter |
| Kale | Transplant or sow | September | Harvest all winter |
| Radishes | Direct sow | September-October | Fast 25-day crop |
| Turnips | Direct sow | September | Greens and roots |
Winter & Overwinter Crops
Plant now for winter harvest or next spring.
| Plant | Action | Timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garlic | Plant cloves | October-November | Harvest next June |
| Onions | Plant sets or seed | October-November | Early summer harvest |
| Peas | Direct sow | October | Overwinter for early spring |
| Fava Beans | Direct sow | October-November | Winter/spring harvest |
Zone 7 Fall Tips
- Zone 7 fall is prime gardening season - often better than spring!
- Many crops can be harvested into December with light protection
- Fall tomatoes avoid the diseases of humid summer
- Overwinter peas and fava beans for early spring harvest
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the first frost in zone 7?
Zone 7 first frost typically arrives late October to early November. This gives you an extended fall growing season with many weeks of productive gardening.
Can I grow tomatoes in zone 7 fall?
Yes! Plant quick-maturing varieties in late July/early August for fall harvest. Choose determinate varieties that mature in 60-75 days. Protect from frost to extend harvest.
What makes zone 7 fall special?
Zone 7 has a long, mild fall perfect for gardening. Cool-season crops thrive, and you can harvest into December with minimal protection. Many crops taste better in cool weather.