If you’ve been thinking about starting an organic vegetable garden, choosing your plants initially may seem overwhelming. 

The experts at Bonnie Plants, a green-gardening plant wholesaler in Union Springs, AL, recommend these six fast-growing, cold-hardy crops for fall gardeners: 

Winterbor Kale

• A nutritious leafy green
• A vigorous producer that endures winter easily, even in very cold climates
• Cut the outer leaves so the center can continue growing; space transplants about 12 inches apart 

Georgia Collards

• Similar to kale, with a stronger, sweet-cabbage flavor
• Leaves taste best when young
• Space transplants 36 inches apart  

Romaine Lettuce

• Richer in vitamins, minerals, fiber and phytonutrients than other popular lettuces
• Heart-healthy
• Space transplants 18 inches apart 

Early Dividend Broccoli

• Popular, productive and easy to grow
• High in fiber and calcium
• Set transplants 18 inches apart 

Mustard Greens

• Nutritious, with spicy leaves that taste sweeter when nipped by frost
• Fast-growing
• Space plants 12 inches apart 

Arugula

• Fast-growing, peppery-tasting leafy green that’s great in salads
• Promotes bone health
• Especially high in vitamins A, C and K

Photo courtesy of ARA