Tips to Plant a Fall Garden
Sure the winter months are fast approaching but now is not the time to hang up those gloves and put away your garden tools, there are still lots of opportunities to harvest a late-season crop before the cold season sets in. Working in our fall gardens can be lots of fun along with reaping the many rewards, the weather is still warm many bird species have not taken flight yet to escape the winter chill nor are the many wildlife taken hibernation but is still up and about.
These are all signs or indications to continue to connect with nature by planting a fall garden, but how do we plant a fall garden and what should I plant in my fall garden? I am so happy that you ask. You have come to the right place to get the answers to those questions and we promise to help you to have much success.
How to Prepare a Fall Garden
Before planting your fall season crop you may want to do some spring cleaning and remove any weeds that may be present because weeds compete or rob garden plants of sunlight, water, and nutrients, any plants that are diseased or not performing well should be removed at this time also. Ensure that the soil is well conditioned, adding organic matter or compost will get your fall garden off to a great start.
If you’re just starting your fall garden make sure that the location of your garden is in an area that gets at least some sunlight for healthy growth. During the fall months because of shorter days your crops will receive a certain amount of sunlight so make sure to take advantage of the warm sun.
Timing is Everything
This fall vegetable list will produce a harvest in 8 weeks or less.
Cold Season Crops
- Lettuce
- Kale
- Brussels sprouts
- Collards
- Arugula
- Rutaabagass
- Spinach
- Radishes
- Cauliflower
- Turnips
- Leeks
- Kohlrabi
- Cabbage
- Carrots
- Beets
- Mustard
- Swiss chard
Turnips
Maintaining Your Fall Garden
Now you’ve planted your fall garden your harvest is well on the way, but to ensure that you grow a healthy harvest you must continually put in a bit of work. Giving your crops the right amount of water is so important, underwater and your fall crop will suffer/overwater your fall crop and your veggies will suffer also so ensure they get the right amount of water.
A rule to go by however is to ensure that the soil is somewhat moist at all times, or if you’re not sure your best source of information is the seed package if you’re planting from seeds. If planting seedlings then your garden nurseryman can educate you on water requirements.
Fertilizing Your Fall Garden
Our veggies and herbs need our help, adding nutrients to the soil will help in giving them the boost they need, a general vegetable fertilizer is a good starter for your fall garden crops. Before applying fertilizer read and follow the manufacturer’s directions for the best results.
Other Veggies to Plant in Your Fall Garden
- Bok Choy
- Peas
- Chives
- Cilantro
- Rosemary
- Tatsoi
- Parsnips
- Bush Beans
- Sage
- Curly Endive
- Mustard Green
- Garlic
- Thyme
- Oregano
Fall Garden Insects Pests
Fall garden insect pests are active during the fall months so keep an eye out for them, there are many ways to bring control or eradicate them to ensure you have a fall harvest you can enjoy.
Weeds
Any weeds that pop up can be removed by hand or by lightly turning the soil with a garden hoe.
A Bonus Just for You
If Planting from seeds the seed package will have instructions including the time of planting and the amount of time it would take from the starting date to harvest time.
The final word on how to plant a fall garden
Planting a fall harvest is a great way to extend the season, this move will help you to reap a healthy crop. I believe until the winter chill sets in we should do all that we can by continuing to work the soil. You will be so happy with the results as you reap the benefits, with that said let us start working in our fall garden by taking advantage of all that the fall season has to offer.
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About the author
Norman loves being in the garden, both at home and for his job....
he is 'Natures Little helper' being outdoors, growing his vegetables and flowers from an early age.
Now having spent over 22 years in the profession he want to give some of his knowledge to others...
his vast array of hints and tips you will find scattered over this site will help you no end growing plants in your garden.