How do I extend the vegetable growing season?

There are several methods to extend the vegetable growing season, both in spring and fall. Using [cold frames, row covers, or low tunnels](https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-news/extending-vegetable-garden-season) can protect plants from frost and allow for earlier planting or later harvesting. Selecting varieties with shorter days to maturity can also help squeeze in an extra crop. Indoor seed starting 6-8 weeks before the last frost gives transplants a head start. In fall, movable greenhouse-like structures call [high tunnels](https://extension.psu.edu/high-tunnel-production-of-vegetables) allow growers to harvest through early winter in many areas.