Quick Tips to Prep for Fall Gardening in July
Many new food gardeners look forward to the bountiful harvests of summer, but did you know that July is actually the ideal time to start prepping your garden for the fall season? Prepping in July can help you extend your growing season, giving you more time to cultivate and harvest your favorite crops. In this blog post, we will share some quick tips to help you prepare your garden for fall gardening in July.
Choose the right crops for fall
Before you start prepping your garden, you need to decide which crops you want to plant in the fall. Some popular fall crops include lettuce, kale, spinach, broccoli, cabbage, beets, and carrots. Make sure to choose plants that have a short maturity period and are cold-tolerant, as temperatures tend to drop in the fall. Also, check the seed packets for planting dates and maturity times, and plan accordingly.
Clear out and amend soil
One of the most crucial steps for prepping your garden for fall gardening is clearing out debris and amending your soil. Remove any dead or diseased plant material from your summer garden beds and add compost or other organic matter to improve soil health. This will help your fall crops thrive and produce quality yields.
Start seeding indoors
If you want to get a head start on your fall garden, consider starting some seeds indoors in July. This will give your plants ample time to germinate and establish strong roots before transplanting them into your garden. Some cool-weather crops, like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, can take 6-8 weeks to reach transplant size, making it crucial to start them early.
Use row covers or hoop houses
Protect your fall crops from harsh weather conditions by using row covers or hoop houses. These simple structures can help stabilize temperatures and shield your crops from frost and cold winds. Row covers can be removed once the weather gets milder, while hoop houses can help extend your growing season well into winter.
Keep your garden clean and tidy.
Lastly, make sure to keep your garden clean and tidy throughout the fall season. Remove any fallen leaves or debris that could encourage pests and diseases, and keep the soil moist to encourage healthy plant growth. Regularly inspect your garden for signs of pest damage or disease, and take action promptly to prevent further harm.
Gardening isn't just a summer activity. By prepping your garden in July, you can reap the benefits of a bountiful fall harvest. Remember to choose the right crops, amend your soil, start seeds indoors, use row covers or hoop houses, and maintain cleanliness throughout the fall season. With these quick tips, you'll be well on your way to enjoying fresh, homemade fall dishes straight from your garden.
Let Tasty Harvests Help!
If you are feeling overwhelmed with preparing for your fall garden, or are away on summer vacation, let us help you get your garden ready. We can work with you for coaching, care, and design. Learn more about how we can help you have a successful garden in any season. View our services here.
