Gardening Success in the Fall

By Donna Stark

Whether it is due to the colder weather, new little pests, or confusion about what to plant, transitioning from your summer to fall garden can prove to be tricky. However, it can be done! There are many different things you can do that will help ensure a successful fall garden. So, grab your tools, put your finest gardening outfit on, and take a look at the ways you can make your fall garden flourish. You may be surprised with a few of them!

Protect Your Garden

No matter what season of the year it is, protecting your garden should always be a top priority. To prepare your garden for the colder weather, cover your soil with compost, mulch, or plant cover. This will help enrich the soil and provide a good source of food for the microorganisms that reside in it.

Use Your Leaves

For many, watching the leaves fall is a fun pastime, but for others it is time to get to work. Fortunately, the fallen leaves you may be raking have many uses and benefits that can help your garden thrive. Leaves can feed earthworms, insulate plants, and suppress weeds, so put them to use! It's as easy as mixing shredded leaves right into your garden. 

Weed One Last Time 

The beginning of the fall season is one of the most essential times to weed! By weeding your garden, you will free up the space you need for new bulbs and seeds, get rid of the plants that are toxic to your garden's health, and halt the growth of future weeds that could potentially sprout in the next season. Make sure to do this when your soil is loose and wet!

Know Your Crops

Understanding the type of plants you have will prove to be very useful when it comes to the changing weather. Some plants can withstand frost while others cannot. Semi-hardy vegetables, such as beets, carrots, and lettuce are vegetables that can withstand light frost. Hardy vegetables, such as arugula, radishes, peas, and turnips are vegetables that can withstand heavy frost. Be sure to research the type of produce you'll be gardening during the upcoming fall and winter months. 

A Successful Garden

With the simple suggestions above, your garden is sure to not only survive, but thrive in the fall and winter months, so get ready to plant to your heart's content! A wonderful harvest is right around the corner. 

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Loganville, Ga.