Remove any spring vegetables that are no longer producing and any dead or dying plants to prevent unwanted disease and insects. Amend the beds with compost and an organic slow- release granular fertilizer and then water thoroughly. Let it dry out a couple days before planting your fall vegetable seeds. Your vegetable crops will need 8 hours of direct sun each day and well draining soil to thrive.
PLANT FALL VEGETABLES
What to start by seed INDOORS (August 1-August 25):
Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Kohlrabi, Mustard Greens, Spinach, Swiss Chard
(August 10-Late September):
Chinese Cabbage
(August 25-October 15):
Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Collard Greens, Lettuce, Kale, Kohlrabi, Spinach
What to start by seed OUTDOORS (Until August 10):
Winter Squash
(Until August 15):
Black Eyed Peas, Sourthern Peas, Okra, Pumpkin
(August 1-August 25):
Cucumbers, Pole Beans, Summer Squash, Zucchini, Corn, Collard Greens
(August 1-September 15):
Pinto Beans, Snap Bush Beans, Yellow Bush Beans
(August 10-Late September):
Chinese Cabbage, Chinese Cabbage transplant, Swiss Chard
(August 25-October 15):
Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Collard Greens, Garlic, Lettuce, Kale, Kohlrabi, Radish, Spinach, Turnips
WATERING
Water deeply and less frequently. Water 6" deep into the soil to make sure you are hitting the roots. When you water lightly, it encourages shallow roots and doesn't help serve your plants in times of heat and dry weather.
Early morning watering is ideal to allow all the water to soak in before the extreme heat hits. Tip- Water fruit and nut trees deeply to avoid fruit drop-off.
MOWER SETTINGS
Keep your mower settings on high in August. Just like the temperature, lawn height goes up in summer. With taller strands of grass, the lawn’s soil is shaded, which helps prevent pesky weeds like crabgrass from popping up. It also encourages the grass to develop a deeper root system that will protect against harsh heat.
GARDEN JOURNAL
Start a garden journal, if you haven't already, to take note of your garden's bloom times, insect habits, watering and fertilizer schedules, vegetable and herb lists, etc. It's helpful to have for next years seasonal planning!
We have many journals to fit everyone's taste for sale in The Haven or online.
MULCH
Mulch as necessary. You want 2-3" covering all bare areas of your garden. Use a high quality native hardwood shredded mulch. Avoid heaping mulch at the base of plants.
PRUNE
In late August, pruning your rose bushes can be very beneficial to promote fall blooms. Prune out dead or diseased wood from trees and shrubs as well. Hold off on your major pruning until mid-winter.
SPRING PLANNING
Now is the perfect time to dig and divide crowded spring-blooming bulbs. Most types usually need thinning every 3-4 years.
