Fall brings to mind images of a healthy harvest, full of tasty fresh vegetables. But in order to have your bounty of crops ready in time for Thanksgiving, you need to get an early start. Here are a few things to start doing in August and September to get your veggie garden ready for autumn.
Harvest Your Summer Crops
The first step you’ll need to take to prepare for fall is to clear out some space in your garden. Harvest the last of your summer crops — when they’re ready, of course — to make space for new fall vegetable plants.
Get Rid of Weeds
Once you’re done harvesting, you might be able to see weeds that were hidden before. Take some time to remove any unwanted plant growth so your new fall veggies won’t have to compete for water and nutrients.
Take Care of Your Soil
After you’re done harvesting and weeding, it’s time to prepare your soil for planting. Aerate your soil, and add a soil amendment, such as Agromend, to planting areas. This will help provide a nutrient-rich environment for your plants and increase your soil’s ability to absorb water and retain beneficial moisture.
Plant the Right Veggies
If you want to celebrate fall with a plate full of hearty vegetables, it’s important to know which ones will thrive during this time of year and grow fast enough to harvest in autumn. Some great options to plant in mid to late summer for a fall harvest include:
- Beets
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Carrots
- Cauliflower
- Lettuce
- Radishes
- Scallions
- Spinach
- Turnips
Prepare for Fall Weather
When you’ve planted your vegetables, all that’s left is caring for them to help them grow strong and healthy. In addition to ensuring they have adequate water and the right amount of sunlight, you’ll need to protect them against fall weather. As the summer heat comes to an end, refresh your mulch to protect your veggies from fall winds. Not sure what kind of mulch to use? Our ES-2 Mulch is perfect for vegetable gardens.
Want more tips to help your garden thrive? Please feel free to contact us anytime — we’re always happy to help!