The growing season in Washington state may be shorter than other parts of the United States, but fertile soil and ample rainfall make the Pacific Northwest well-suited to vegetable gardening.
Cold hardy vegetables and herbs can usually be planted outside towards the end of February. These vegetables often become sweeter when they mature in the cool of the spring and be ready to eat before the heat of summer. All of these plants need cool weather, full sun (at least 6 hours), water, and rich organic well-drained soil to flourish.
Winter crops are generally planted in late summer/early fall so they can get well established before freezing weather, and can be enjoyed in fall, winter or early spring. Crops planted in late winter (February – early March) can be harvested before the summer heat sets in. Note: Planting schedules are dependent on weather conditions.
Some cool season vegetables to try:
| Arugula | Cauliflower | Onions |
| Beets | Collard Greens | Peas |
| Broccoli | Kale | Potatoes |
| Brussels sprouts | Kohlrabi | Radish |
| Cabbage | Leeks | Spinach |
| Carrots | Most Lettuces | Swiss Chard |
If you did not plant your garlic last fall, or shoots have not emerged in early spring, you still have the opportunity to plant a spring crop.
Cool Season Edibles | Warm Season Edibles
