Read by Matilda Longbottom

 
I’ve always found joy in the rhythms of the seasons. While some may think gardening is a summer affair, those in the know understand that the fun doesn’t stop when the temperatures start to cool. In fact, July is the perfect time to start planning your next move for late summer and a fall garden.

While summer gardens burst with luscious tomatoes, zucchini, and vibrant blooms, there’s something incredibly satisfying about planning a fall garden. It’s like a secret treasure, waiting to be unveiled as the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp. The anticipation of tucking garlic cloves into the soil, knowing they’ll emerge as flavorful delights next summer, is so exciting. And don’t even get me started on the charm of chrysanthemums (aka mums!) These autumn beauties never fail to make my heart skip a beat.

So grab your spade, and let’s dive into the world of succession planting and perennial wonders!

Succession Planting: Keep the Harvest Coming

At the end of summer, your spring lettuce has had its glory days, and now it may begin resembling more of a quirky tendril than a leafy wonder. Fear not, for this is where succession planting swoops in to save the day. Bid adieu to tired plants and make room for fresh contenders. Say goodbye to buggy tomatoes (we’ve all been there), but alas, they’re not the type you can simply uproot and replant. Instead, focus on veggies like lettuce, kale, beans, and more that can make way for new growth. Opt for speedy growers such as loose-leaf lettuce, kale varieties like the vibrant Dazzling Blue, radishes, arugula, and turnips. Plant them in late August to early September, and watch them flourish in no time. And here’s a pro tip: those lettuces might just surprise you by popping up again come spring!

Planting Vegetables for a Spring Surprise

Ever heard of planting now to reap the rewards later? That’s the magic of fall planting, my friends. Think garlic, onions, carrots, and even spinach, depending what USDA zone you’re in! Pop these babies in the ground now, mark their territory well, and come spring, you’ll be greeted by fresh sprouts galore. And let’s not forget the perennial powerhouses like asparagus. Sure, it takes a couple of years to hit its stride, but once it does, you’ll be swimming in delicious asparagus spears every year. Speaking of perennial picks …

Fall Garden Perennial Picks for Year-Round Joy

Now, onto the stars of the show: perennial veggies and herbs. These beauties keep on giving, season after season. Rhubarb, ramps, asparagus, artichokes, sorrel, sea kale, arugula, and green onions are just a few of the delights you can plant now for years of tasty harvests. And who can resist the charms of herbs like thyme, sage, chives, and mint? They’re the garden superheroes that brave the winter chill and come back stronger every year. Don’t forget about lavender, rosemary, and lemon balm either; if you’re in zones 7+, they’re the gift that keeps on giving.

Fall-Planted Flowers: A Burst of Color

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, it’s the perfect time to add a splash of color to your garden with fall-planted flowers. Chrysanthemums, pansies, and violas are the classic go-to’s for autumn charm in a fall garden. These hardy little gems can withstand the cooler temperatures and provide a cheerful display well into winter. For a more dramatic flair, consider planting ornamental kale and cabbage. Their unique textures and vivid hues of purple, green, and white create a stunning contrast against the autumn landscape. And let’s not forget about the bulbs! Fall is the ideal time to plant spring-flowering bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. Tuck them into the ground in the fall, and come spring, you’ll be treated to a dazzling display of blooms.

 
So there you have it, folks. July isn’t just for lazy days in the sun—it’s for dreaming up your next gardening masterpiece. Whether you’re plotting your succession planting strategy or diving into the world of perennial wonders, there’s something magical about planning ahead and watching your garden flourish. Happy planting! ❖

 
What do you plant in your fall garden? I’d love to know!