Embrace the monsoon season and the onset of autumn in India by planting these versatile vegetables that thrive in the unique blend of warm days and occasional rain showers.
1. Radishes: April-Aug
Radishes are fast-growing root vegetables that can be ready for harvest in about 30 days. They prefer well-drained soil with a pH of 6-7 and can be planted in both full sun and partial shade. Harvest radishes when their roots reach about 30 cm in diameter.
2. Okra (Ladyfinger): June-July
Okra is a fast-growing plant that thrives in well-drained soil rich in organic compost. Sow seeds in locations receiving 5-6 hours of sunlight daily. Supplement with fish fertilizer or seaweed tonic for vigorous growth and harvest when pods are 2-3 inches long.
3. Lettuce: Sept-Nov
Lettuce, a nutrient-rich leafy green, grows well in soft, loamy soil that drains well. Plant lettuce seeds in protected spots with 4-6 hours of sunlight initially, increasing gradually. Use NPK fertilizer and seaweed to enhance growth and harvest when leaves are 4-6 inches long.
4. Beans: July
Beans are excellent nitrogen fixers and should be planted directly in nutrient-rich, well-drained soil. Provide 6 hours of sunlight daily, mulch after seeds sprout, and water regularly. Harvest beans when pods are full, usually in about 40-50 days.
5. Brinjal (Eggplant): July-Aug
Brinjals thrive in well-aerated, well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Sow seeds ¼ inch deep and 5 inches apart, ensuring consistent watering. Harvest when the skin is shiny and glossy for optimal flavor and nutrition.
6. Zucchini: May-July
Zucchini prefers fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Plant seeds 1 inch deep and 24 inches apart, watering regularly. Harvest zucchini when plants are 3-4 inches tall, approximately in 50-70 days.
7. Gourds (Bottle Gourd, Bitter Gourd, Pumpkin): June-July
Gourds require well-drained soil rich in organic material and should be sown 1-2 inches deep, 24-32 inches apart. Ensure they receive 5-7 hours of sunlight daily and harvest when the skin hardens and develops full color.
8. Tomatoes: June-July
Tomatoes are easy to grow in soil with a pH of 6-6.8, avoiding heavy clay. Start seeds indoors and transplant after 6-8 weeks into locations receiving 7-8 hours of sunlight. Water regularly and harvest ripe tomatoes in 65-70 days.
9. Spinach: Sept-Oct
Spinach thrives in partial sun and soil with a pH of 7 enriched with organic matter. Avoid overwatering to prevent leaf bolting. Spinach, peas, and brinjals make excellent companion plants, enhancing pest and weed resistance in your garden.
10. Cabbage: April-Aug
Cabbage grows well in well-drained soil with full sun (6-7 hours daily). Sprinkle seeds on prepared soil, water regularly, and watch for pests. Use neem oil for pest control and harvest cabbage heads in about 100 days.
11. Kohlrabi: March-July
Kohlrabi seeds should be planted in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of 5.5-6. Water regularly and ensure full sun exposure for optimal growth. Harvest kohlrabi bulbs within 50-60 days and use organic solutions to manage pests like clubroot and cabbage worms.
12. Coriander: June-July
Coriander grows well in partial sun and moist soil. Start from seeds for healthier growth and avoid transplanting. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged and harvest coriander leaves as needed for fresh culinary use.
