What Should You Plant in November for Zone 7?

As the vibrant hues of autumn begin to fade and the chill of winter sets in, gardeners in Zone 7 may wonder what lies ahead for their beloved plots. November is a unique month that offers a transition from the bustling harvest season to the quieter, contemplative days of winter gardening. While many might think that the gardening season comes to a halt, there are still plenty of opportunities to cultivate your garden and prepare it for the seasons to come. Whether you’re looking to plant hardy vegetables, vibrant perennials, or even some winter blooms, November holds a treasure trove of possibilities for the dedicated gardener.

In Zone 7, the mild climate allows for a variety of planting options even as temperatures drop. This is the perfect time to sow seeds for cool-season crops that thrive in the cooler temperatures, ensuring a bountiful harvest come spring. Additionally, November is an excellent month for planting bulbs that will burst into life with color once the frost recedes, bringing joy and beauty to your garden after the long winter months.

Moreover, this month presents an ideal opportunity to focus on soil health and preparation for the upcoming growing season. By incorporating organic matter and mulching, gardeners can enhance soil fertility and structure, setting the stage for robust plant growth in the spring. As we delve

Vegetables to Plant in November Zone 7

In Zone 7, November is an opportune time to plant a variety of cool-season vegetables. These crops thrive in the cooler temperatures and can often be harvested in late winter or early spring. Consider planting the following:

• Garlic: Planting garlic in November allows it to establish roots before winter. Choose a sunny spot and ensure well-drained soil.
• Onions: Sets can be planted this month, as they benefit from the cold stratification.
• Shallots: Similar to garlic, shallots are best planted in the fall for early spring harvest.
• Spinach: This hardy green can be sown directly into the soil for an early spring crop.
• Kale: Planting kale in November allows it to take advantage of the cool weather, resulting in a sweeter flavor.
• Radishes: Quick-growing radishes can be sown in early November for a late winter harvest.

Herbs to Plant in November Zone 7

Herbs are also suitable for planting in November. Many perennial herbs can establish their roots before winter, ensuring a robust start in spring. The following herbs are recommended:

• Thyme: A hardy perennial that can survive winter conditions.
• Sage: Another perennial herb, sage can be planted now for a flavorful addition to your garden.
• Chives: Planting chives in November will ensure they come back early in the spring.

Flowers to Plant in November Zone 7

November is a great time to plant certain perennial flowers that can add beauty to your garden in the spring. Consider these options:

• Pansies: These hardy annuals can withstand cold weather and will bloom in early spring.
• Snapdragons: Planting snapdragons now can lead to earlier blooms next season.
• Perennials: Consider planting perennials like coneflowers and daylilies, which will establish themselves before winter.

Cover Crops for Soil Health

Utilizing cover crops in November can enhance soil health and prevent erosion over winter. Recommended cover crops for Zone 7 include:

• Clover: Adds nitrogen to the soil and improves its structure.
• Vetch: Another nitrogen-fixing crop that can enhance soil fertility.

Crop Type	Best Planting Time	Harvest Time
Garlic	November	July-August
Kale	November	March-April
Chives	November	Spring
Cover Crops	November	Spring (for soil improvement)

Using this planting strategy in November will help maximize your garden’s potential, setting a strong foundation for the upcoming growing season.

Vegetables to Plant in November Zone 7

In Zone 7, November is a transitional month where gardeners can prepare for the cooler months while still planting certain vegetables that can withstand the chill. The following vegetables can be sown directly into the garden or planted as transplants:

• Garlic: Plant garlic cloves in well-drained soil. Space them about 6 inches apart with the pointed end facing up.
• Onions: Sets or seedlings can be planted in November for an early harvest in spring.
• Spinach: This hardy green can be sown directly into the ground or transplanted. Spinach often survives frost, enhancing its flavor.
• Kale: Another frost-tolerant vegetable, kale can be direct-seeded or transplanted in November.
• Broccoli: Transplant seedlings for a late fall or early winter harvest.

Herbs to Consider Planting

Herbs can also be successfully planted in November in Zone 7. Many herbs are perennial and can withstand the cold:

• Thyme: A hardy herb that can thrive even in colder temperatures.
• Chives: These can be planted now for a fresh crop in spring.
• Parsley: While often treated as an annual, parsley can survive winter and be harvested in early spring.

Flowers for November Planting

November is also an excellent time to plant certain flowers that will bloom in the following spring. Consider the following:

• Pansies: These hardy annuals can be planted for winter color and will bloom in early spring.
• Violas: Similar to pansies, violas can tolerate cold and will produce blooms as soon as the weather warms.
• Spring Bulbs: Plant daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths in November for a vibrant spring display.

Preparing the Garden Bed

Before planting, it’s essential to prepare the garden bed adequately. This includes:

• Clearing Debris: Remove any dead plants or debris from the previous season.
• Soil Testing: Check soil pH and nutrient levels to ensure optimal growing conditions.
• Amending Soil: Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil.

Protection Strategies for November Planting

As temperatures drop, consider these strategies to protect your newly planted seeds and seedlings:

• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
• Row Covers: Use floating row covers to shield plants from frost.
• Cold Frames: Construct cold frames to provide a warmer microclimate for tender plants.

Table of Planting Options for November in Zone 7

Plant Type	Planting Method	Notes
Garlic	Direct seed	Plant cloves 6 inches apart
Onions	Transplant	Use onion sets for early harvest
Spinach	Direct seed/Transplant	Frost enhances flavor
Kale	Direct seed/Transplant	Very frost-tolerant
Pansies	Transplant	Blooms in early spring
Spring Bulbs	Direct seed	Plant for spring blooms

Optimal Planting Strategies for November in Zone 7

Dr. Emily Carter (Horticulturist, Green Thumb Institute). “In November, gardeners in Zone 7 should consider planting garlic and shallots. These crops thrive when planted in the fall, allowing them to establish roots before winter, leading to a bountiful harvest in the spring.”

Mark Thompson (Landscape Designer, EcoScape Solutions). “November is an excellent time to plant cover crops such as clover or vetch in Zone 7. These not only improve soil health but also prevent erosion during the winter months, setting the stage for a productive spring garden.”

Linda Martinez (Master Gardener, Urban Gardening Network). “For those looking to add some color to their gardens, November is suitable for planting pansies and violas. These hardy flowers can withstand cooler temperatures and will bloom beautifully throughout the winter in Zone 7.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What vegetables can I plant in November in Zone 7?
In Zone 7, you can plant hardy vegetables such as garlic, shallots, onions, and certain leafy greens like kale and spinach. These crops can withstand cooler temperatures and will thrive in the winter months.

Are there any flowers suitable for planting in November in Zone 7?
Yes, you can plant winter-blooming flowers such as pansies and violas. Additionally, you can also plant spring-flowering bulbs like daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths during this time.

Is it too late to plant perennials in November in Zone 7?
While it is generally recommended to plant perennials in the spring or early fall, November can still be suitable for planting certain hardy perennials, provided the ground is not frozen. Ensure to mulch well to protect the roots.

What should I consider when planting in November in Zone 7?
Consider the soil temperature and moisture levels. Ensure that the ground is workable and not overly saturated. Mulching is also important to protect young plants from frost and to retain soil moisture.

Can I start a vegetable garden in November in Zone 7?
You can start a vegetable garden in November by focusing on cold-tolerant crops. Prepare your garden beds and plant garlic, shallots, and other hardy vegetables to ensure they establish before winter.

How do I care for newly planted items in November in Zone 7?
Care involves regular monitoring for moisture, especially if there is a dry spell. Apply mulch to insulate the soil and protect plants from frost. Additionally, avoid fertilizing newly planted items late in the season to prevent stimulating new growth that could be damaged by cold weather.
November presents a unique opportunity for gardeners in Zone 7 to prepare their gardens for the upcoming seasons. This period is ideal for planting a variety of cool-season crops, including garlic, onions, and certain leafy greens. Additionally, perennial plants, bulbs, and some hardy annuals can also be sown during this time, ensuring a vibrant garden come spring. Understanding the specific climate and soil conditions of Zone 7 is crucial for selecting the right plants to thrive during the cooler months.

Moreover, November is not just about planting; it is also a time for garden maintenance. Gardeners should focus on soil preparation, mulching, and protecting existing plants from frost. These practices will enhance soil health and promote better growth in the spring. Utilizing row covers can also provide added protection for newly planted seeds or seedlings, ensuring they establish well before winter sets in.

Key takeaways for Zone 7 gardeners include the importance of timing and plant selection. By choosing the right crops and taking proactive steps in garden maintenance, one can maximize the productivity of their garden even in the cooler months. Embracing the opportunities that November offers can lead to a more fruitful and resilient garden, setting the stage for a successful growing season ahead.

Author Profile

Kendrik Ohara

Hi, I’m Kendrik. This site is more than a blog to me. It’s a continuation of a promise.

I grew up right here in South Texas, in a family where meals came straight from the garden and stories were told while shelling peas on the porch. My earliest memories are of pulling weeds beside my grandfather, helping my mother jar pickles from cucumbers we grew ourselves, and learning, season by season, how to listen to the land.

Here at BrownsvilleFarmersMarket.com, I share what I’ve learned over the years not just how to grow crops, but how to nurture soil, nourish health, and rebuild food wisdom from the ground up. Whether you’re exploring composting, greenhouse farming, or hydroponic setups in your garage, I’m here to walk with you, row by row, one honest post at a time.