As temperatures cool and days grow shorter, many gardeners assume that fresh salad leaves belong to summer. In truth, winter is one of the best times to grow hardy, nutrient-rich greens at home.
Crisp, radiant leaves can brighten winter meals while providing a steady source of vitamins and minerals. With the right varieties and a little extra care, you can enjoy homegrown salads all through the season.
What and how to grow winter greens
Not all salad greens survive in cooler weather, so selecting frost-tolerant or cold-hardy varieties is key. Here are some of the best winter salad greens, along with simple growing tips for each.
1. Lettuce
Winter lettuces, such as loose-leaf or red varieties, are slow-growing and can tolerate cool nights. They form compact heads or tender leaves with a mild, slightly sweet flavour perfect for fresh salads.
How to grow:
- Sow seeds in fertile and well-drained soil enriched with compost.
- Plant 20-25 cm apart to ensure good airflow.
- Protect young seedlings with a thin layer of mulch or a light cloche during cold spells.
- Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage continuous growth.
2. Spinach
Spinach is rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and folate. Cold-tolerant varieties often produce sweeter, tender leaves when exposed to mild frost or cooler nights.
How to grow:
- Sow seeds two to three centimetres deep in rows spaced 20 cm apart.
- Keep the soil moist but well-drained.
- Mulch with straw or organic matter to maintain warmth around roots.
- In very cold weather, start seeds in trays and transplant once the seedlings are sturdy.
- Harvest outer leaves regularly, leaving the centre to regrow.
Harvest outer leaves regularly, leaving the centre to regrow.
3. Rocket (Arugula)
Rocket adds a peppery kick to salads and grows quickly, making it perfect for repeat sowings through winter.
Protect your plant from strong winds or heavy frost using lightweight covers.
How to grow:
- Sow seeds thinly in fertile, well-drained soil.
- Space rows about 25 cm apart.
- Protect from strong winds or heavy frost using lightweight covers.
- Sow every two to three weeks for a continuous harvest.
- Pick young leaves for the best flavour.
4. Mizuna
Mizuna, a feathery Japanese mustard green, has a mild, slightly peppery taste and thrives in cooler weather — adding both flavour and colour to salads.
How to grow:
- Sow seeds directly in well-prepared soil, spacing rows 20-25 cm apart.
- Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Use mulch or covers to protect seedlings from cold nights.
- Harvest outer leaves first, letting the centre continue growing.
- It can also be grown in pots or containers for balconies or terraces.
5. Mustard greens
Mustard greens bring a tangy, spicy flavour to both salads and cooked dishes. They are fast-growing and tolerate cool nights well.
How to grow:
- Sow seeds thinly in fertile and well-drained soil.
- Space plants 20-30 cm apart.
- Cover young seedlings with light mulch or protective sheets during cold nights.
- Harvest outer leaves gradually, or cut the whole plant when fully mature.
6. Corn salad
Also known as lamb’s lettuce, corn salad produces small, rosette-shaped leaves with a sweet, nutty taste that improves in cold weather. It’s extremely hardy and can stay in the soil for weeks.
How to grow:
- Sow seeds thinly in fertile and well-drained soil.
- Keep soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging.
- Mulch lightly to protect roots and maintain warmth.
- Harvest outer leaves as needed, leaving plants to regrow.
- Sow in succession every few weeks for a continuous supply.
Tips for a successful winter salad gardening
- Protection: Use lightweight covers, cloches, or mulches to shield delicate leaves from cold nights.
- Succession planting: Sow in small batches every two to three weeks for a steady harvest.
- Soil fertility: Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted organic matter.
- Watering: Keep soil moist but well-drained to prevent root issues.
- Harvesting: Pick outer leaves regularly; cooler nights often enhance flavour and sweetness.
