Discover the 10 Best Vegetables to Grow in California

Summer Squash

Unlike other types of squash, summer squashes are those variety that are harvested while immature. This leaves them with a rind that is tender and edible. There are several different types of summer squash, many of which can thrive when grown in the California climate. Some of the most common types of summer squash include:

• Crookneck squash
• Pattypan squash
• Tatuma
• Tromboncino
• Zucchini.

Winter Squash

Unlike summer squash, winter squash is grown for several months, allowing them to reach maturity. Because of this, they often sport a tougher, firmer rind. In California, you’ll want to plant winter squash between the last frost of spring and the first frost of winter, usually no later than June. This allows it the right amount of time to grow at optimal temperatures. Popular types of winter squash include:

• Butternut cup squash
• Honeynut squash
• Acorn squash
• Carnival squash.

Arugula

Vegetables like winter squash can take over 100 days to fully grow after planting seeds. As a result, you may be interested in planting something that is not only more versatile across a range of dishes but also grows much quicker. You can harvest arugula in as few as 7 weeks. Because this is an overall hardy plant, in the warmer regions of southern California, it can be planted year-round.

Kale

Kale is another example of a fast-growing leafy green that is among the best vegetables to grow in California. This vegetable has a unique taste and texture, making it a great addition to salads, sandwiches, and more. In many of the milder, cooler areas of California, Kale can be grown year-round. In other areas, however, growing it in pot can be beneficial. This allows you to move your kale around, moving into the shade as needed. By doing so, in areas where grow time is limited due to the heat, you can slightly extend the time in which you can harvest bountiful kale.

Radish

Wild radishes can be found throughout California. However, the state also supports the right weather to grow the more popular daikon radish. Like kale, in some areas, you can grow radishes year-round. However, in other areas, you’ll likely want to stick to growing radishes in the winter. This can be harvested within just a few weeks, making it one of the fastest vegetables to grow in California.

Beets

You can plant and harvest beets twice a year in this state. If you’re looking for a late spring to early summer harvest, you should plant around February. For a winter harvest, plant around August. Always make sure to check with your local growing zones before setting out to grow any produce. This can help ensure a successful harvest.

Cucumber

The cucumber is one of the most popular vegetables to grow in California. However, be warned, while this is a fairly resistant plant, they don’t often thrive in the winter. Instead, try to plant your cucumbers around the same time as your summer squash, during the warmer months of the year.

Eggplant

If you’re looking for a more unique vegetable in your garden, eggplants are often a tasty but forgotten addition. These can thrive when grown alongside many different plants during the warmer months of the year. One of the most common varieties of eggplant grown in California is the American Black Bell.