Fall is a great time for beginners to get started. Fall gardens can provide seeds with faster germination in the warm soil, and the cooler weather is very pleasant to work in outside. It also will give beginners a chance to try their hand at gardening in preparation for spring. Whatever your motivation for fall gardening, here are a few tips to help get you started.
What to Plant in Your Fall Garden
An autumn garden can bring tremendous rewards. As summer comes to a close, morph your summer garden into a lovely tapestry of greens for a delicious fall harvest that will grow well in cooler temperatures. Brussel sprouts, cabbage, radishes, mustard greens, and spinach are great ideas for a fall garden.
When to Start Your Fall Garden
According to The Spruce, your goal should be for your fall garden to mature before the first frost. Determine the number of days to maturity for the type of vegetable you choose to plant. Then, count back the number of days from the first average frost date to determine the date to plant.
Once you’ve determined your planting date, you’ll want to begin by removing any summer garden plants that are no longer growing well or that you have already harvested. After your current garden is clear, work in some compost or fresh soil to give your new plants a good start. It’s essential to keep your newly planted seeds well-watered during this time, giving the seeds plenty of time to germinate in a moist bed. Even short bursts of drought can damage the growth of many fall plants.
These guides will help you determine the best time to plant your fall cool-season seeds or plants.
Common Issues with Fall Gardens
Now that your vegetables are underway, keep an eye out for pests and diseases. These little seedlings can attract a long list of pests! Look specifically for holes or spots on the leaves and deal with pests or diseases immediately to minimize damage.
When you want to start getting ready for your fall garden, come see us at the Garden Center to get all the supplies you’ll need to have a successful garden. You can even shop our online selection to find all your looking for – from seeds to plant starts. We hope to see you soon!
