Why I’m Not Planting a Late Fall Harvest

Everywhere I look this time of year, gardeners are talking about planting a late fall harvest. And honestly? I’m not doing it.

This was our first year gardening in a brand-new planting zone, and it’s been a learning curve from the start. Some things grew beautifully, some things struggled, and some things completely surprised us. And that’s okay.

Instead of pushing myself to squeeze in one more round of planting, I’ve decided to finish strong with what I already have growing. The peas are hanging on, the okra is still popping up, and a few tomatoes and pumpkins are rounding out the season. It’s enough.

One of the lessons homesteading teaches over and over is contentment. Sometimes the best decision is to take the wins you’ve already got, instead of stretching yourself thin chasing more.

I know myself—and I’d rather head into winter feeling proud of what we accomplished than burned out from overdoing it.

So this year, no late fall planting for me. Instead, I’m:

• Harvesting what’s left.

• Cleaning up the garden as we go.

• Taking notes on what worked (and what didn’t).

• Dreaming of next year’s expansion.

Because here’s the thing: every season teaches us something. This one showed me where to start, where to grow, and where to plan better next time. And that’s more valuable than a rushed, half-hearted late crop.

So if your garden didn’t look like the picture-perfect fall Pinterest board, you’re not alone. Take the wins where you find them. Celebrate what grew. And tuck the lessons away for next year’s stronger, more solid plan.

Sometimes, “not planting” is its own victory. 🌱