Winter Vegetables

When it comes to gardening, the common belief is that the winter months are a fairly slow time. After all, since it is cold outside, there really isn't all that much that can grow, right? Well the answer to this questions that there are a few vegetables out there that actually do a bit better during the winter months than the warmer months. These winter vegetables are a perfect way to get the most out of your garden, and to extend your harvest a bit. Here is a little bit of information that you can use to help decide which winter vegetables you may like to grow this coming season.

• Onions. These hardy plants will grow in any zone between 2 and 11, and since they are pretty much bulb plants that like to grow underground, they are perfect for the colder months. When planting them, initially plant them during the fall in an area that has soil with plenty of drainage, and full sun. In addition, make sure that the soil is rich in nutrients and organic matter (if necessary prepare the soil by mixing in some compost).
• Peas. This is another hardy plant that will grow quite easily in zones 2 through 11. When planting choose an area that is either in full sun, or one that has at most light shade. Peas usually prefer well-drained rich soil that has plenty of moisture. Ideally, you will plant this particular vegetable in the late winter or early spring since it still likes the cool temperatures experienced there.
• Brassica's. Also known as cabbages, Brussels Sprouts, and flowering cabbages these plants also require well drained soil, with a rich organic mixture. When preparing the soil, be sure that you avoid using any compost that has a high nitrogen content. Typically the planting season for these will be around a month to a month and a half prior to the last frost of the season.
• Root vegetables. Such root vegetables as carrots, parsnips, and so on. For the most part these vegetables are all quite capable of growing in zones 2 through 11, and since they are underground are quite adept at withstanding cold. It is best to prepare the soil for these plants by digging down to at least a foot, and mixing in some good compost material. In addition, begin planting these vegetables about three weeks prior to the last frost of the season.