Fall and winter in Texas are ideal for best production of cole crops, which include cabbage, turnips, kale, mustard greens, broccoli, cauliflower and specialty Chinese varieties. In many areas such as South or Central Texas, these plants ignore frosts and light freezes and are only ‘done in' by more severe winter weather conditions. Cole crops often last through the entire season until spring is finished.

Buying ready-grown transplants is the easiest solution for a very small garden. For larger areas, grow your own transplants, except for vigorous varieties such as mustard greens or turnips, which may be direct-seeded outside. Check for optimal planting dates with the local County Extension Office or with the planting calendar offered in the PlantAnswers section of the Aggie-Hort Web. It is important to purchase good seed from a reputable source and sow according to directions in containers. Thin when necessary, and keep a watchful eye out for insect problems such as aphids, and for cabbage loopers. Fertilize occasionally with a light solution of water-based fertilizer. As soon as the weather has cooled, set transplants outside in well-prepared garden soil. Maintain good watering, cultivating and fertilizing routines. Keep dead leaves cleared away to discourage pillbugs, crickets and diseases such as downy mildew.

When planning the fall garden, group the cole crops you intend to plant into three categories so that as the earliest maturing plants are taken out, something else may be planted instead. Mustard, turnips and turnip greens are considered ‘quick producers,' taking from 30 to 60 days to mature. Broccoli, cabbage, Chinese specialty greens (Bok Choy, Tat Soi, etc.) are ‘moderately quick' and provide food for the table in 60 to 80 days. ‘Slow producers' taking 80 days or more include Brussels sprouts, cabbage and cauliflower.

Cole crops are able to take a little more shade than many vegetables. Parts of your garden that might have been too shady during the summer could now be considered for planting now that many trees and shrubs are losing their leaves. Brussels sprouts, cabbage, collard, kale, mustard and turnips all tolerate partial shade.

Ornamental, frilly mustards, colorful kale, and red or green cabbage plants may be interspersed in flower beds to add contrast. Harvest outer leaves throughout the season as garnish or stir-fry ingredients while leaving the rest of the plant for its decorative effect.