As our tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and squash start dying out, it is time to think about our fall gardens. In fact, did you know that fall is actually one of the best times to grow vegetables in South Georgia? With warm soils, cooler air temperatures, and fewer insect and disease problems later in the season, a fall garden can provide fresh vegetables well into winter. Below are some tips to get started.
Soil is the Basis for Success
Before planting, remove any remaining summer vegetables and clean up plant debris. We recommend pulling a soil sample or, if you had one pulled in the spring, bring it to your county agent and discuss how to transition your soil into a fall garden. Your agent can make reccommendations on fertilizing the garden too.
What to Plant
South Georgia’s climate allows us to enjoy a wide variety of cool-season vegetables.
Some options include:
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Brussels sprouts
- Collards
- Mustard greens
- Turnips
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Swiss chard
- Carrots
- Beets
- Radishes
- Onions
- Rutabagas
Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts do best when planted as transplants, while crops such as carrots, lettuce, spinach, radishes, collards, and turnips can be direct-seeded into the garden. This LINK has a great reference for planting dates, spacing, planting depths, and the days to maturity.
Water Is Critical
Although air temperatures begin to cool, the soil remains warm in late summer. Newly planted seeds and transplants require consistent moisture for good germination and root development. With the drought that we find ourselves in, it is a good idea to ensure you have a water source but try not to over water. This LINK answers your watering questions.
Applying mulch around plants can also help conserve soil moisture, moderate soil temperatures, and reduce weed pressure throughout the growing season. Remember that mulchs can also reduce soil pH so it is a good idea to have an idea of what your soil pH is going forward.
Don’t Forget Pest Management
Fall gardens generally experience fewer insect and disease issues than spring gardens, but problems can still occur. Caterpillars, especially cabbage loopers and other worms, can quickly damage cole crops.
Gardeners should inspect plants regularly by checking beneath leaves and within the plant canopy. Early detection makes control much easier. Organic products containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can be effective against many caterpillar pests when applied before heavy feeding occurs. Weeds should also be controlled through, plastic barriers, mulching, or hand-pulling, though there is a chance for chemical methods.
Plan Now for Fresh Winter Harvests
One advantage of gardening in South Georgia is the region’s relatively mild winters. Many cool-season vegetables continue producing well after frost, providing fresh produce throughout the winter months.
Whether you’re planting a few rows of collards or a full vegetable garden, make sure to start planning soon. A little planning makes a garden successful.
For more information, contact your local Extension office or visit the UGA Extension publications website.