As the warmth of summer gradually gives way to the crisp air of autumn, the gardening season can continue with a twist – fall vegetable gardening. The changing temperatures and shifting sunlight offer a unique opportunity to cultivate a bounty of flavorful and nutrient-rich vegetables. The fall garden has something for every palate, from vibrant leafy greens to hearty root vegetables and even the trusty cabbage.
Garlic is a popular food ingredient that – for thousands of years – has been used globally to season food. It is considered a vegetable, and as a member of the Alliaceae family, is closely related to onions, leeks, and shallots.
In our cold climate, garlic is best planted in the fall and harvested the following summer. Garlic is an easy, rewarding crop to grow as long as you plant it at the right time with loose, well-draining soil, and provide it with adequate moisture when first planted to establish the roots.
The season is changing, bringing cooler temperatures. It’s time to think about preparing your garden for fall and winter. Here are some ideas to help you get started:
Think spring is the best time to add new hardy plants to your outdoor space? Think again!
The cooler temperatures in fall make it an ideal time for planting. Extreme heat stresses out trees, making it difficult for them to establish. Cooler temperatures with shorter days create a perfect growing environment for newly planted plants.
Trees will begin establishing their root systems immediately after planting and will continue until frost, which results in a stronger, more developed root system.
Defoliating insects are more common in spring and summer. Fewer pests and diseases mean less stress on new trees and shrubs!
As summer begins to wind down, take a look at your garden and note areas of improvement. Pick your plants, dig in, add some fresh soil, and water well to help your fall plantings establish strong roots.
These are our favourite plants that make an impression in autumn.