November marks a prime planting period in USDA Hardiness Zone 8, which is defined by mild winters where average minimum temperatures typically fall between 10°F and 20°F. This provides a generous growing window that extends past the gardening season in colder regions. Planting now takes advantage of cooling temperatures, allowing certain crops to mature through the winter. It also gives other plants the necessary cold period for a spectacular spring display. Establishing plants now benefits from the mild winter conditions before the deepest cold of the season arrives.
Zone 8 November Climate Considerations
November weather in Zone 8 creates a favorable environment for root establishment. The average first frost date typically falls between November 7th and November 28th, meaning many areas avoid a hard freeze for most of the month. While air temperatures drop, the soil temperature lags behind, often remaining workable and warm enough to encourage root development. Soil temperatures below 60°F, but above freezing, reduce top growth while allowing roots to spread and anchor the plant. This allows bulbs and perennials to establish a robust base before winter dormancy, but planting must occur before the ground becomes saturated or freezing temperatures set in.
Cool-Season Vegetable Crops
November is an ideal time for sowing or transplanting a variety of cool-season vegetables.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens thrive in the decreasing daylight and cooler temperatures, which often makes their flavor sweeter after a light frost. Kale, spinach, and collard greens can be planted now, either from seed for a continuous harvest of young leaves or as transplants for faster maturity.
Root Vegetables
Root vegetables are well-suited for a November planting, as they benefit from the cool soil. Carrots, beets, and radishes can be direct-sown into loose, well-drained soil. The cold encourages the development of sweet, crisp roots. These crops will grow slowly through the winter and can be harvested as needed, with a layer of mulch helping to regulate soil temperature.
Brassicas
Transplanting brassicas such as cabbage, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts is a common practice this month. These plants need a long, cool growing period to form their edible heads. Setting out transplants now allows them to establish deep root systems before temperatures drop further. The mild Zone 8 winter allows these crops to overwinter and produce their main harvest early in the following spring.
Spring-Blooming Bulbs and Alliums
Spring flowers require a cold period, known as vernalization, to initiate flowering.
Spring-Blooming Bulbs
November is the final window for planting classic spring-blooming bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths in Zone 8. These bulbs need approximately 10 to 14 weeks of chilling between 35°F and 45°F to ensure colorful blooms. Planting now gives the bulbs time to grow their initial root structure before the ground gets too cold. If the winter is too mild, bulbs may need to be pre-chilled in a refrigerator for 8 to 10 weeks before planting.
Edible Alliums
Alliums, including ornamental varieties and edible types like garlic and shallots, should also be planted now. Garlic cloves and shallot bulbs are planted individually, pointed end up, at a depth of about two inches. This cool, dormant period establishes robust roots and initiates the process of clove or bulb division, ensuring a mature harvest the following summer.
Hardy Annuals and Perennials
November is a good time to add winter color and establish permanent ornamental plantings. Cool-season annuals, such as pansies, violas, and snapdragons, can be transplanted now to provide continuous color throughout the mild winter months. These plants are frost-tolerant and will often bloom even under a light dusting of snow. Planting bare-root perennials and shrubs capitalizes on the still-warm soil. Planting while dormant allows roots to grow into the soil without the stress of supporting new foliage, meaning the plants will be better anchored and ready for spring growth.