Photo by The Benefits of Late-Summer Gardening
As the summer months begin to draw to a close, many gardeners may think that their opportunity to plant and harvest has passed. However, there are still many benefits to gardening in late summer, and with the right knowledge and planning, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest well into the fall.
One of the main advantages of late-summer gardening is the ability to plant a second crop of warm-season vegetables. These vegetables, such as tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants, thrive in the warm weather and can be planted in late summer for a fall harvest.
In addition to warm-season vegetables, there are also many cool-season vegetables that can be planted in late summer. These vegetables, such as broccoli, kale, and spinach, prefer the cooler temperatures of fall and can be planted in late summer for a fall harvest.
Late-summer gardening also provides an opportunity to plant herbs and flowers that can be used in cooking and decoration. Many herbs, such as basil and cilantro, can be planted in late summer and can be used to add fresh flavor to a variety of dishes. Flowers, such as marigolds and zinnias, can be planted in late summer and can be used to add color and beauty to your garden.
Another benefit of late-summer gardening is the ability to extend the growing season. By planting cool-season vegetables and herbs in late summer, you can enjoy a harvest well into the fall, even after the first frost.
Tips for Late-Summer Gardening
If you’re interested in trying your hand at late-summer gardening, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Make sure to choose varieties of vegetables and herbs that are suitable for late-summer planting. These varieties should be resistant to heat and drought, and should mature quickly.
- Plant your vegetables and herbs in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This will help to ensure that your plants receive the nutrients they need to thrive.
- Water your plants regularly, but make sure not to overwater. Late-summer plants can be susceptible to disease and pests, so it’s essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Provide your plants with support as needed. Many vegetables and herbs can grow quite large, so make sure to provide them with stakes or cages to keep them upright.
Examples of Vegetables and Herbs to Plant in Late Summer
Here are a few examples of vegetables and herbs that can be planted in late summer:
- Spinach: This cool-season crop can be planted in late summer for a fall harvest. It prefers well-draining soil and partial shade.
- Radishes: These fast-growing roots can be planted in late summer and can be harvested in as little as 20 days. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun.
- Basil: This popular herb can be planted in late summer and can be used to add fresh flavor to a variety of dishes. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun.
- Garlic chives: These hardy herbs can be planted in late summer and can be used to add a garlic flavor to dishes. They prefer well-draining soil and partial shade.
Conclusion
Late-summer gardening can be a rewarding and productive experience, providing you with a bountiful harvest of fresh vegetables and herbs well into the fall. By choosing the right varieties, planting in well-draining soil, and providing support as needed, you can enjoy a successful late-summer garden.
Seniors at the Bedford Community Senior Center enjoy the fruits of their labor in their mini garden.
Community Gardening
Community gardening is a great way to get involved in gardening, even if you don’t have a lot of space. Many community gardens offer plots of land that can be rented for a small fee, and they often provide access to tools and other resources.
In addition to providing a space to garden, community gardens can also be a great way to meet new people and get involved in your community. Many community gardens offer classes and workshops on gardening and other topics, and they often host events and activities throughout the year.
If you’re interested in getting involved in community gardening, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Research local community gardens in your area and find one that fits your needs and interests.
- Reach out to the garden organizers to learn more about the garden and to ask about availability.
- Consider volunteering at the garden to get a feel for the community and to learn more about gardening.
Bedford Community Senior Center
The Bedford Community Senior Center is a great example of a community garden in action. The center offers a mini garden that is maintained by seniors, and it provides a space for them to get outside and enjoy nature.
The garden is made up of eight containers and is located in the corner of the center’s parking lot. The produce from the garden is used by the center’s kitchen staff and is also available to the seniors who maintain the garden.
The Bedford Community Senior Center is a great resource for seniors in the area, and it provides a variety of activities and services to help them stay active and engaged. In addition to the mini garden, the center offers classes and workshops on topics such as gardening, cooking, and art.
Conclusion
Late-summer gardening can be a fun and rewarding experience, providing you with a bountiful harvest of fresh vegetables and herbs well into the fall. By choosing the right varieties, planting in well-draining soil, and providing support as needed, you can enjoy a successful late-summer garden.
In addition to the benefits of late-summer gardening, community gardening can also be a great way to get involved in gardening and to meet new people. Many community gardens offer plots of land that can be rented for a small fee, and they often provide access to tools and other resources.
The Bedford Community Senior Center is a great example of a community garden in action, and it provides a space for seniors to get outside and enjoy nature. The center offers a variety of activities and services to help seniors stay active and engaged, and it is a great resource for the community.
A community garden is a great way to get involved in gardening and to meet new people.
References
- [1] “7 vegetables and herbs to plant in August for a quick harvest — and they’re all easy to grow” by [Author], [Publication], [Date]
- [2] “Bedford seniors harvest ‘home grown’ vegetables” by Lisa Vidaurri Bowling, The Monroe News, [Date]
- [3] “Bedford Community Senior Center” by [Author], [Publication], [Date]
