Winter gardening is the most overlooked time for growing. What a shame because winter gardening is the most enjoyable time to garden in Zones 9 and 10. Because our weather climate is so mild during the wintertime in Zones 9 and 10, winter gardening is much more enjoyable and forgiving, and plants are easier to establish because of the cooler temperatures. If you are growing outside of Zone 9 or 10 in an area that receives frosts, there are many things you can do to extend your harvest well into the cooler weeks of winter. Row cover is a simple product that can protect your crops from light frosts. Greenhouses and cold frames also let gardeners grow well into the year's cooler months. Depending on where you are growing in the United States, you may be able to grow well into November with proper frost protection. For us in Zones 9 and 10, winter gardening is the best time to plant fruit trees, establish perennials and native plants, and broadcast wildflowers in the garden for the winter rains to germinate. With mild temperatures, seasonal rainfall, and shorter days, plants can establish themselves more easily in a winter garden. They will spend the shortest days of the year growing roots deep in the ground, allowing for bigger blooms on your flowers and more healthy vegetable plants. So, if you have never grown in the winter, give it a try! You will not be disappointed.