UK growing guide · Autumn
What can I plant in November?
November is mostly about protection and preparation, but there are still useful sowings and plantings you can do. Choose well-drained ground (or modules under cover) and keep beds tidy to reduce pests and disease through winter.
Back to planting calendarWhat can you sow in November?
The main November opportunities are overwintering broad beans and garlic - but only when the soil is workable and free-draining.
If your ground is heavy or waterlogged, use pots or modules under cover and plant out later when conditions improve.
This is also a good time to tidy beds and protect crops from mice, pigeons and harsh weather.
Vegetables to sow indoors or under cover
- Broad beans (pots in cold greenhouse)
- Garlic (modules if soil is wet)
- Force chicory (dark, warm place)
Vegetables to sow or plant outdoors
- Overwintering broad beans (mild areas, well-drained)
- Garlic cloves (mild areas)
- Mulch empty beds (compost or leaf mould)
Tip: Avoid digging or planting when soil is waterlogged. You can damage soil structure and create problems that last into spring.
Tips & common mistakes
November gardening tips and common mistakes
November is about patience. Choosing the right moments to work - and keeping things tidy - prevents many winter problems.
Working waterlogged soil
Digging and planting in wet soil damages structure. Wait for workable conditions and use mulch to protect beds.
Leaving crops unprotected from mice
Mice can dig up new sowings. Use covers, check regularly and keep the plot tidy.
Storing root crops damp
Damp storage encourages rot. Store roots cool and dry and protect from hard frosts.
Not checking stored produce
One rotting apple or onion can spoil others. Check stores and remove damaged items promptly.
Composting diseased debris
Avoid spreading issues like blight. Dispose of diseased material rather than composting it.
Garden planning and task management features
Sproutly Gardening helps you organise your plants, plan tasks and set reminders so nothing is forgotten.
Record your sowings
Track winter sowings and what you started under cover.
Plan upcoming jobs
Schedule bed covering, storage checks and protection tasks.
Set reminders
Remember to check stored produce and protect crops in cold snaps.
Review your progress
Keep notes on what overwintered well and what didn’t.
Ready to plan your November garden?
Stay organised through winter. Track protection and storage tasks in Sproutly Gardening.
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Gardening advice is provided as a general guide based on typical UK conditions. Weather soil and local climate can vary so always use your judgement and adjust timing as needed for your own garden.