Organic gardeners can plan their Fall Veggie Garden by creating a picture of their raised garden beds in a sunny area where veggies can get at least six hours of sun a day. If this is a new garden, choose a southern exposure to the sun which is best for most plants. Fill the beds with organic soil rich with microorganisms. Plan to put the low growing plants in front and the tall plants in the back. Use graph paper squares to represent a foot of garden. The basic rule is one plant for every square foot of soil.

A Fall Garden Map is handy for planting and, afterward, to know where which seeds were planted. Organic seed packets are filled with valuable information for planning the garden layout. Gardeners in Southern California have a wide range of cold weather crops and can choose their favorite winter veggies, herbs, and fruits to plant.

Having a series of garden maps from years past, gardeners can see what they planted in their fall gardens and make educated choices. One of the best ways to minimize pests and diseases in the soil is by crop rotation, planting a different crop in the same soil every year. Also, choosing companion planting, which cultivates foods that grow well together and nourish each other’s roots, enhancing their flavors, nutrients, and resilience to pests and diseases. By preparing organic soil in a sunny spot, adding rich compost, and the proper placement of heirloom seeds, organic gardeners can grow a bountiful winter harvest.