—Plant a Fall/Winter Garden
We are fortunate to live in a temperate climate that enables us to plant some food crops in the fall. Plant vegetables such as leaf lettuce, chard, radishes, turnips and rutabagas in early September. Broccoli, Brussel sprouts, spinach and cauliflower are other good choices. Garlic and shallots are also great to start in the fall – plant them from September to mid-October. Leave them to overwinter and you will have a harvest of huge bulbs around late May to early June.
—Plant a Cover Crop
If you don’t want to plant vegetables in the fall, you may want to consider planting a cover crop. Cover crops, or living mulches as they are also called, are planted to boost a garden’s nutrient content. These crops can also help your garden in other ways by attracting beneficial insects and providing a home for earthworms. Cover crops are also effective for weed suppression and can also help stop the cycle of plant disease by keeping soil-borne diseases and insect infestations at bay. Cover crops also provide visual interest and colour to your garden in the winter and early spring months.
For more information on growing cover crops, click here. For information on different kinds of cover crops, click here.
—Clean up your Garden
Even if you don’t plant any fall vegetables, it is a good idea to clean up your garden. Start by removing all stakes and wire cages. Store them in a dry place. Pull up all remaining vegetable plants and vines. Dig out and remove all remaing roots. Clear out any weeds. Pick up all fallen vegatables and fruits. Remove all debris such as old boards and any gardening equipment that may be lying around. Applying a winter mulch – compost, mushroom soil, or a blanket of leaves – will encourage earthworm activity and restrict weed growth. Now is the time to take the time to clean your gardening tools and store them safely until next spring.
Check out our Events page for upcoming Garden and community events. Also, the latest issue of “Common Greens” is now available on the “Newsletter” page. Enjoy!
