With a little planning, you can harvest fresh vegetables from your own backyard most of the year. Vegetables can be grown outside in most parts of the Carolinas from late winter through late fall. If you are willing to invest in a low-cost cold frame or unheated tunnel house, harvesting through the winter is easily possible. The key to growing a productive vegetable garden in all seasons is in knowing what to plant and when.
Knowing when to plant different crops allows gardeners to develop a planting calendar for year-round harvest. Since planting dates vary across the state, check with your local Cooperative Extension office to find out recommended dates for your location. Use the following guidelines to plan your 2011 vegetable garden.