Overwintering can set you up for one of the earliest harvests of the year. By planting cold-hardy crops in late summer or early fall and protecting them through the winter, you can have market-ready produce before most growers have even started planting.
Planting for a Spring Harvest
Overwintering isn’t about harvesting through the winter—it’s about establishing mature crops early so they’re ready to grow as soon as days get longer.
- Fall Growth Phase – Plant in late summer while temperatures and light levels are still high enough for healthy plant growth.
- Winter Dormancy – Growth slows or stops in the darkest, coldest months, but plants stay healthy under cover.
- Spring Regrowth – As daylight increases and temperatures warm, crops will be ready for one of the first market harvests of the season.
💡 Pro Tip: Time your plantings to reach near maturity before days drop below 10 hours of light. Keep records—this will help you map planting dates for future seasons.
Great Crops for Overwintering
Onions – A spring market favorite. Start them in summer and they’ll mature in early spring.
Leeks – Sturdy and reliable, perfect for overwintering under cover.
Carrots & Parsnips – 'Sweeten' in the cold and store beautifully in the ground.
- Spinach – Handles cold well and takes off quickly in spring.
Low Tunnels for Overwintering
Low tunnels are one of the most effective—and cost-efficient—tools for overwintering crops. They shield plants from unpredictable winter weather, snow, frost, and desiccating winds —cold, dry winds that pull moisture from leaves and cause serious damage.
Because overwintered crops simply rest until spring, there’s no need for an expensive heated structure. A well-built low tunnel will get the job done for a fraction of the cost.
💡 Pro Tip: Invest the time to set up your low tunnels properly in the fall—your structure will be facing months of snow, wind, and freeze-thaw cycles. Be sure your coverings are pulled tight and secured.
Low Tunnel Covers for Protection
The right covering makes all the difference when it comes to surviving heavy snow and freezing temperatures.
Heavy-Duty Poly – The best choice for maximum protection against wind, snow, and bitter cold. Space hoops about 4 ft apart to support snow load. Always vent on warm, sunny days to prevent overheating.
💡 Pro Tip: Layer frost cloth underneath for extra insulation in deep winter.
Frost Cloth – A versatile cover available in different weights, when paired with heavy-duty poly, gives crops extra winter protection.
- 💡 Pro Tip: Layer frost cloth underneath for extra insulation in deep winter.
The Takeaway
Overwintering is one of the smartest ways to get ahead for the spring market season. With the right crops, proper timing, and the right protection, you will be the first farm selling fresh produce at the spring market table.
DISCOVER LOWCAT KITS AND COVERINGS FOR OVERWINTERING YOUR CROPS