This time of year is a perfect time to think about your fall garden. What are you going to do when the tomatoes, cucumbers and green beans give out? Do you let your garden just sit over the winter or do you get excited about a whole new garden season?
If you’re going to let those summer veggies keep going until the frost finally gets them, then pull them up and enjoy a well-deserved rest for the winter, then there are three things to keep in mind:
The first week of August is the time to sow seeds for many of our fall crops—broccoli, cauliflower, kale, etc. I start some of my seeds in little pots outside—keeping them in an area where they get good dappled sun, but no beating sun. On extra hot days, I’ll pull them over into mostly shade. Cool-season crops don’t like broiling hot summer sun. If you have a sunny window indoors, you can start them there.
Come Labor Day weekend, I’ll begin looking for spots to plant the seedlings. By then I usually have some bean plants on the way out or a couple of cucumbers that have powdery mildew. I’ll transplant some of the seedlings into bigger pots, buying time until I’m ready to pull up something. And, of course, I’ll always direct sow root crops like beets, radishes, carrots, etc. since root crops don’t transplant well.
Remember, the back of the seed packet is the single best source of information as to exactly when to plant your seeds, how far apart, how deep, and even if sowing inside or direct-sowing outside is best. The seed packet will tell you to count back from the first fall frost date. I usually count back from October 20.
We just got in 2020 dated seed for fall planting. Come in now while the selection is great and let us help you have a fabulous fall garden. Don’t let your gardening joy end with fall. Plan and plant now to keep the fun – and delicious veggies – coming!
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