Fall is just around the corner, and if you haven’t thought about fall gardening yet, this is the perfect time to start doing so. There are some vegetables perfect for planting in the fall and they will even survive a frost. However, there are also several challenges you will face with fall gardening. Here are some guidelines to consider when planning your autumn gardening this year.
First, we’ll start with what vegetables are good for planting during the fall and which ones will survive the frost. These vegetables are suitable for an autumn garden:
A home vegetable garden being prepared for planting tomatoes
- Beets
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Carrots
- Cauliflower
- Kohlrabi
- Lettuce
- Radish
- Spinach
Most on the above list are vegetables able to survive a frost, the exceptions would be cauliflower, radish, and spinach. Along with that list, these vegetables also fall into the list of frost survivors:
- Brussel sprouts
- Collards
- Kale
- Leeks
- Mustard
- Parsnips
- Rhubarb
- Rutabagas
- Scallions
- Swiss chard
- Turnips
If you want to get a head start on your gardening this autumn, instead of buying seeds, start with plants. These will mature early to beat the cold. As with anything, though, you will face a few challenges with your fall gardening. One of the challenges is the heat spells in August and September when it is time to start planting. This could threaten broccoli and spinach. To cool them down, try throwing a length of see-through fabric over them during a hot spell.
Another challenge is good drainage. As winter approaches, the season gets wetter. Therefore, this is the perfect time for raised beds. Raise the soil level 8 inches to prevent rot. Also fill the bed with native soil and compost mix. You can extend harvest by getting a cold frame, which is similar to a small greenhouse. The benefits of fall gardening include less insects, less sweat, and a sweeter flavor because of the frost.
Now that you have our fall gardening guidelines, you’re ready for a successful gardening season to grow some of your favorite vegetables.
And if you’re ever in need of a piece of equipment for a job, we offer the top tools you’ll need. Even if all you want to do is rent something for a time. Check out what we offer on our rental page today or stop by our store at 2120 N. Dixie Highway in Lima, Ohio. Or give us a call at 419-879-1196 for any questions you may need answered.
