Planning the Fall Vegetable Garden

Most of us think of spring as the only time to plant a vegetable garden.

Fall is a great time for starting a vegetable garden as the fall garden is easier to start and maintain than a spring/summer vegetable garden: Seeds will germinate more quickly as the soil is warmer than in the spring; weeds and pests are more easily controlled than in the spring and summer; and watering is less of a chore than summer as the days are cooler and there is more rainfall.

In New York City, the first frost we can expect is in early November. In our region, the ideal time to start the fall garden is mid-August to mid-September depending on the vegetable variety and cold hardiness. 

Following is a list of garden activities for August.

1. Prep garden beds, remove weeds and add a layer of compost.

2. Shop your local garden center – seeds and many gardening supplies are on sale as stores are clearing space for winter products.

3. Use seed starter kits to start lettuce, salad greens, kale and broccoli. 

4. Direct-sow peas, mustard green and spinach

5. Continue to harvest and enjoy the bounty from your spring and summer vegetable planting.

Next time:  September garden activities for both vegetable and flower gardens.