A November Guide to Vertical Gardening: Insights from My Grandfather’s Garden

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 Growing up, gardening was more than just a hobby; it was a way of life for my family, especially my grandfather. His garden was filled with life and lessons, and it’s where my passion for vertical gardening was born. Now, as I look at my own garden, layered in levels of green, I’m reminded of how each season holds something special—even November. Let’s dive into how you can bring fresh beauty into your vertical garden this fall, even with colder temperatures setting in.

1. Why Vertical Gardening Works All Year

Vertical gardening isn’t just for the peak growing season; it’s an all-year, all-season solution. Especially in smaller spaces or urban settings, it maximizes greenery without taking up precious square footage. In November, when outdoor gardens slow down, a vertical setup can continue to thrive indoors or against protected walls outside. Imagine a wall filled with cool-weather veggies or lush greens you can enjoy right through the holiday season.

My Tip:

Consider integrating herbs like thyme, rosemary, and mint—they add both fragrance and flavor, especially with winter stews around the corner.

2. Choose the Right Plants for November

In cooler climates, I focus on hardy greens, herbs, and winter vegetables. Plants like lettuce, kale, and Swiss chard are excellent choices as they can withstand cooler temperatures. November is also an ideal time to grow radishes or green onions, which have a quicker turnaround.

For those of you in warmer regions, your options open up to Mediterranean herbs—think rosemary, oregano, and even some varieties of hardy succulents.

3. Get Creative with Containers

One of my earliest memories with my grandfather was helping him select pots and containers for his garden. He taught me to be resourceful, and that’s something I bring into my own vertical setups. Vertical gardens are unique in that they don’t always require fancy planters. From old tin cans to repurposed wooden pallets, nearly anything can become a part of your green wall.

Pro Tip:

Layer your plants in a tiered setup—plant the shade-loving greens like ferns and mosses at the bottom, with hardier herbs and succulents at the top where they can catch more sunlight.

4. Essential November Care Tips

November can be tricky, as weather patterns fluctuate. Here are a few tricks I use to keep my plants healthy:

  • Watering: Overwatering is easy in cooler months. Check the soil’s moisture level and water sparingly—once a week is often enough.
  • Insulation: If your vertical garden is outside, protect it from frost by bringing portable setups indoors or using frost covers. Indoors, keep them away from heating vents, which can dry out the leaves.
  • Sunlight: November days are shorter, so place your garden near a south-facing window or invest in grow lights. Even an hour or two of light can make a big difference.

5. Adding a Personal Touch

For me, gardening is all about connecting with nature. Try adding small, personal touches like decorative garden stakes, seasonal ornaments, or handmade labels. My grandfather used to carve little signs with plant names and seasons. It’s a small touch, but it brings personality to your space, making it feel more like “yours.”

6. A Vertical Garden for the Whole Family

Gardening has always been a family activity, and vertical gardens are perfect for bringing everyone together. Let the kids plant the herbs, while you arrange the greens. Not only does it teach responsibility, but it also builds lasting memories—just as my grandfather did with me.

Wrapping It Up

As the season changes, I encourage you to try vertical gardening. November offers a unique opportunity to experiment with cool-weather plants and creative setups. And remember, every garden has a story. It doesn’t have to be perfect—it’s about growth, care, and sharing something beautiful with those around you.

So, what will you grow this November? Let’s continue the journey together on my Facebook and Instagram pages, where I’ll be sharing more tips, photos, and maybe a few of those old garden stories from my grandfather.

Join me in building a greener world, one vertical garden at a time. Follow along and let’s inspire each other!

Follow me on Facebook Matts Garden  

Matt Craven 

Location: Swansea, UK

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