Fall Garden Care and Maintenance Checklist

If you live in the north, fall in the garden is the time to start protecting your plants from the cold weather. December is when the ground will freeze. The ideal time for you to plant and tend your plants in fall is in the southern areas. Fall provides protection from the cold and is a great time for vigorous exercise and gardening. These tips will help you to enjoy fall in your garden.

Start with your garden's vegetable crops. Planting leafy and root vegetables can be started as early as September. Your tomato plants should be hardened off by December. Your flower plants can benefit from moist conditions. Additionally, cool-season vegetables can be planted in the low desert where temperatures are slightly higher than in higher altitude areas. Cool-season vegetables such as lettuce, cucumbers, spinach, and kale can be planted in these areas.

FAQ

What kind of lighting works best for growing plants indoors?

Florescent lights work well for growing plants indoors because they emit less heat than incandescent bulbs. They are also consistent in lighting, and do not flicker or dimm. There are two types of fluorescent bulbs: regular and compact fluorescent (CFL). CFLs use up to 75% less energy than traditional bulbs.

Does my backyard have enough space for a garden?

It's possible to wonder if you will have enough space for a vegetable or fruit garden if your current one is not available. The answer to that question is yes. A vegetable garden doesn't take up much space at all. It only takes some planning. Raised beds can be built as low as 6 inches. Containers can be used in place of raised beds. You'll still be able to get plenty of produce in any way.

What time should I plant herbs in my garden?

The ideal time to plant herbs is springtime, when the soil temperature is 55°F. To get the best results, they should be planted in full sun. To grow basil indoors you need to place the seedlings inside pots that have been filled with potting soil. Once they start sprouting leaves, keep them out from direct sunlight. Once the plants begin to grow properly, you should move them into bright indirect lights. After three to four weeks, transplant them into individual containers. Keep them hydrated.

Statistics

• According to a survey from the National Gardening Association, upward of 18 million novice gardeners have picked up a shovel since 2020. (wsj.com)
• As the price of fruit and vegetables is expected to rise by 8% after Brexit, the idea of growing your own is now better than ever. (countryliving.com)
• According to the National Gardening Association, the average family with a garden spends $70 on their crops—but they grow an estimated $600 worth of veggies! - blog.nationwide.com
• Today, 80 percent of all corn grown in North America is from GMO seed that is planted and sprayed with Roundup. - parkseed.com

External Links

bhg.com

• 6 Essential Steps for Starting Your First Vegetable Garden Off Right

planthardiness.ars.usda.gov

• USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

How To

How to grow basil

Basil is one of the most versatile herbs you can use in your kitchen. Basil can be used to flavor dishes and add flavor to sauces, soups, pasta, and desserts. These are some helpful tips to help you grow basil indoors.

1. It is important to choose the right location. Basil is an annual plant and will only live one season if it's not in the right place. It likes full sun but can tolerate partial shade. If you're growing it outside, find a spot that has good air circulation.
2. Plant the seeds. Basil seeds should not be planted more than two weeks prior to the last frost date. In small pots with potting mixture, sow seeds about 1/2 inch deep. Wrap the pots with clear plastic and place them in a sunny area. Germination usually takes about 10 days. After the pots have germinated, place them in a sunny area where temperatures are around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. When the seedlings reach maturity, you can transplant them. Remove the plastic wrap and transplant the seedlings into larger containers. To drain excess moisture, fill each container with potting mixture. As necessary, you can add more potting material. The containers should be placed in a sunny location or under indirect lighting. To prevent wilting, mist the plants every day.
4. After the dangers of frost have passed, mulch the plants. This will protect the plants from freezing weather and decrease water loss.
5. Water your plants frequently. Basil needs to be watered regularly in order for it to thrive. To determine how much water your plants require, use a rain gauge. Use a timer to automatically turn off irrigation during dry spells.
6. Make sure to pick basil right when it is at its peak. You can encourage bushier growth by picking the leaves more often.
7. The leaves can then be dried on paper towels, screens, or other suitable surfaces. Dry the leaves in glass jars and bags in the fridge.