Sowing and planting calendar

Sowing and planting calendar for winter vegetable gardens in Sicily

Growing a vegetable garden during the winter, in Sicily’s mild and sunny climate, is not only possible but also extremely rewarding. The mild temperatures, combined with the natural fertility of the Mediterranean soil, allow for fresh, nutritious vegetables to grow throughout the cold season.
This calendar is designed to provide a step-by-step guide for those wishing to organize their winter vegetable garden, choosing the best times for sowing and transplanting based on the island’s climate. Month by month, the ideal crops are indicated—from salad greens and cabbages to legumes and root vegetables—along with practical tips for soil management, plant protection, and preparing spring crops.
To promote soil health and biodiversity, we recommend adopting simple agroecological techniques such as organic mulching, the use of natural compost, and periodic crop rotation, which reduces the risk of disease and soil depletion. Companion planting—for example, between legumes and leafy vegetables or cabbage and aromatic herbs—improve the balance of the horticultural ecosystem and promote more sustainable resource management.
The goal is to provide a simple, clear, and comprehensive tool that enhances the potential of Mediterranean family farming, promoting sustainable practices, respect for natural cycles, and self-production even in the coldest months.
By following this calendar, you can plan your garden in harmony with the seasons, achieve continuous and wholesome harvests, and experience the authentic rhythm of the Sicilian land more closely.

September –
Direct sowing or seedbed sowing:
– Radishes;
– Spinach;
– Autumn lettuce;
– Arugula;
– Chicory and chicory;
– Fennel (final sowing);
– Cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli (final transplants).
Transplants:
– Cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli;
– Lettuce and escarole;
– Leeks.
It is recommended to start preparing seedbeds with mature compost and a light mulch to prevent evaporation.

October –
Direct sowing:
– Spinach, Swiss chard;
– Arugula, lamb’s lettuce, baby lettuce;
– Peas and broad beans (in coastal areas);
– Garlic and onion (end of the month).
Transplants:
– Winter lettuce, escarole, chicory;
– Late fennel;
– Kale, Savoy cabbage.
It is recommended to protect the most delicate seedlings with light covers (non-woven fabric).

November –
Direct sowing:
– Broad beans and peas (even inland);
– Arugula, spinach, lamb’s lettuce;
– Garlic, onions, and shallots.
Transplants:
– Winter lettuce and escarole;
– Hardy cabbage and Savoy cabbage.
It is recommended to reduce irrigation, but keep the soil well-drained to avoid waterlogging.

December –
Sowing (small, but possible in mild climates):
– Arugula and lamb’s lettuce (in coastal areas);
– Late broad beans.
Transplanting:
– Lettuce and cabbage (only in frost-free areas).
It is recommended to monitor for slugs and fungal diseases, which are very common with humidity.

January –
Protected sowing (in seedbeds or tunnels):
– Early tomatoes (for those wishing to transplant in March);
– Peppers, eggplant (only if in a heated seedbed);
– Lettuce, onion, celery.
It is recommended to prepare the soil for spring crops and add compost or well-rotted manure.

February –
Direct sowing:
– Peas, broad beans, carrots, spinach, arugula, lettuce;
– Spring potatoes (late month, mild areas).
Transplants:
– Spring cabbages and lettuces;
– Onions and leeks.
It is advisable to start planning crop rotations and the return of summer crops.

March (late winter/early spring) –
Direct sowing:
– Zucchini, green beans (in coastal areas);
– Carrots, beets, chard;
– Various salads.
Transplants:
– Early tomatoes, eggplants, peppers (if the weather is mild and there are no frosts);
– Lettuce, fennel, and residual cabbage.
It is advisable to continue mulching to maintain moisture and limit weeds.