Gardeners have long turned to the stars, the moon, and the seasons to guide their planting, but there’s one age-old guide that claims to hold the secret to perfect timing. So much so, in fact, that it’s confidently listed off the best (and worst) days to sow seeds in November.
Known as the Farmer’s Almanac, this centuries-old publication has been predicting the best days to plant, prune, and harvest for over 200 years, using a blend of astronomical cycles, long-range weather forecasts, and time-tested observation. Think of it as planting by the moon, with a little added pizazz.
It’s easy to dismiss this as a little mystical (read: woo-woo), but here’s the thing; entire generations of growers still swear by its accuracy. And if you’re still drafting up your list of November gardening chores, its advice is clear: some days promise flourishing growth, while others are better spent keeping your seeds in their packets.
Of course, you’ll still need to keep your USDA Plant Hardiness Zone in mind. That caveat in place, though, here’s when to sow seeds and when to step away from the soil if you want the strongest results before winter.
When to Plant for the Best Results
According to the Farmer’s Almanac, November offers several prime planting days, particularly for gardeners in milder regions.
November 8-9
Consider these golden days for gardeners. Start your seedbeds or flower gardens, and if your climate is gentle enough, get root crops in the ground; think potatoes, carrots, onions, beets, and turnips.
If you order it quickly, this Fall & Winter Vegetable Seed Collection from Amazon should see you in good stead.
November 15-16
Another of the best days to sow seeds in November, the Almanac stresses that this is a great time for sowing grains, hay, and fodder crops. It’s also another sweet spot for root vegetables.
November 15-16
Another of the best days to sow seeds in November, the Almanac stresses that this is a great time for sowing grains, hay, and fodder crops. It’s also another sweet spot for root vegetables.
November 17-19
If you’re in the South, this is – not to get too Whitney Houston about it – your one moment in time for transplanting and for planting potatoes, beets, onions, and turnips.
November 22-24
The Almanac says that this is one of the best days to sow seeds in November for gardeners in southern Florida, Texas, and California. If that’s you, consider this your sign to go big with aboveground crops such as peas, squash, corn, and tomatoes.
November 27-28
Described by the Almanac as “extra good” days for vine crops and most aboveground vegetables, these dates close the month on a high note.
If you only pick one window, aim for 8-9 November as the best days to sow seeds in November. The conditions (cosmically speaking) are just right for strong root growth and early-spring rewards.
When Not to Plant
It’s not all sunshine and seedlings, sadly; in fact, The Farmer’s Almanac is equally clear about which days to avoid.
November 2-3
Considered among the worst days to plant seeds in November, anything planted now “will grow poorly and yield little.”
November 6-7
Expect root rot rather than results.
November 20-21
Poor planting days across the board.
November 25-26
These days might be good for weeding or organic garden pest control, according to the Almanac… but not for planting. In fact, they’re some of the very worst days to plant in November.
November 29-30
Yet another spell when growth and yield are predicted to disappoint.
Remember, though: these “bad” days aren’t to be wasted, as the Almanac says they’re ideal for catching up on weeding, pruning, and soil preparation, giving your garden a head start when conditions improve.
It might just be the perfect time to invest in Amazon’s Fiskars 4-Claw Stand Up Weed Puller Tool, then…
Why It Works
We know, we know; it all sounds a little too specific to be true (we’ve all seen The Traitors; we know that specificity is synonymous with betrayal).
That being said, The Farmer’s Almanac bases its guidance on the moon’s position and its influence on soil moisture and plant vitality; an old tradition that still resonates today. So, whether you believe in lunar gardening or simply enjoy following a natural rhythm, carefully selecting your planting days is a satisfying way to stay connected to the seasons.
If you do, you could be rewarded with early-spring shoots that remind you why a chilly day of late fall gardening is more than worth it...
