August 2011

In Western Oregon, we’re about to enjoy what I like to call the Second Coming of Spring, also known as Fall. You see, the warm days and cool nights of September and October actually encourage some of the best vegetable harvests in our region! Here we’ll discuss when and what to plant to extend our vegetable season.

Onions



The best time to plant vegetables for a fall harvest is right now! Some gardeners begin to plant fall veggies as early as mid summer, but August and even September are prime planting times for fall harvests. With the help of a simple row cover, many gardeners continue to harvest crops throughout the winter.

Because late summer typically brings warm, dry weather, it is often best to plant fall crops from starts. Most gardeners will find this easier than starting from seed and will also appreciate the head start. Below are some of my favorite crops for fall harvest:

 

 

Here are a few delicious fall crops that must be grown from seed:

 

 

Brussel Sprouts


You can maximize your chances of success by using some of our Al’s Transplant Fertilizer and carefully observing your plants watering and nutritional requirements. Also, don’t forget to add Al’s Compost and incorporate some late summer Companion Plants like Rudbeckia, Marigolds, Gazanias, and Mums, (Mums available around mid August) to help keep your plants pest free.  Our Al’s Experts are always available for troubleshooting as well. Happy Gardening!