Plant Now, Save Later: Summer Planting for Fall Harvests

As the height of summer approaches, many gardeners are enjoying the fruits of their spring labors. But for the forward-thinking gardener, now is the perfect time to plan and plant for a bountiful fall harvest. By planting summer vegetables and herbs with an eye toward autumn, you can extend your growing season and save money on produce well into the cooler months. Let's explore what to plant at this time of year for fall harvests and how to make the most of your garden space.

Fall-Focused Summer Herbs

While many herbs are quick-growing and best for immediate summer use, some herbs planted now will thrive and be ready for harvest in the fall:

1. Parsley: This biennial herb can be planted in mid-summer for a fall and even winter harvest in milder climates.
2. Sage: A perennial herb that, when planted in summer, will establish itself for use in autumn dishes.
3. Rosemary: This woody herb planted now will be ready for your fall roasts and soups.
4. Thyme: Another perennial that, when established in summer, provides flavorful leaves well into fall.
5. Cilantro: Often bolts quickly in summer heat, but planted late in the season, it can provide fresh leaves for fall salsas and soups.

What to Plant at This Time of Year: Vegetables for Fall Harvest

Many vegetables can be planted in mid to late summer for fall harvests. Here are some top choices:

1. Brassicas: Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts all benefit from a summer planting for fall harvest. They prefer cooler growing temperatures but need the summer to size up before producing their edible parts.
2. Root Vegetables: Carrots, beets, and turnips can be sown in mid-summer for a fall harvest. They'll sweetened by light frosts.
3. Leafy Greens: Kale, collards, and Swiss chard planted now will provide nutritious leaves well into the fall and even winter in some areas.
4. Peas: A second crop of peas can be planted in late summer for a fall harvest in many climates.
5. Spinach: Summer-planted spinach will thrive as temperatures cool, providing tender leaves for fall salads.
6. Garlic and Onions: Plant these alliums in late summer for harvest the following year.
7. Winter Squash: Varieties like butternut, acorn, and pumpkin need to be planted in early summer to be ready for fall.

Maximizing Your Garden for Fall Harvests

To get the most out of your summer planting for fall harvests:

1. Succession Planting: Stagger your plantings every 2-3 weeks to ensure a continuous harvest throughout the fall.
2. Intercropping: Plant quick-growing fall crops like radishes between slower-growing ones like winter squash.
3. Use Season Extenders: Be prepared with row covers or cold frames to protect crops from early frosts, extending your harvest season.
4. Soil Health: Replenish your soil with compost before planting your fall crops to ensure they have the nutrients they need.

Garden Centre: Your Resource for Fall Planning

Your local garden centre is an excellent resource for planning your fall garden:

1. Seeds and Starts: Find seeds or seedlings appropriate for your area's fall growing season.
2. Fall-Specific Supplies: Look for season extenders, frost protection materials, and appropriate fertilizers.
3. Local Expertise: Staff can provide valuable insights into fall planting dates and varieties that do well in your specific climate.
4. Cover Crop Seeds: If you're not using all your garden space, ask about cover crops to protect and enrich your soil over winter.

Saving Money with Fall Garden Planning

Planting in summer for fall harvests can lead to significant savings:

1. Extended Harvest: By planning now, you'll have fresh produce long after the main growing season ends.
2. Reduced Energy Costs: Fall crops often require less watering and pest control than summer crops.
3. Preservation Opportunities: Many fall crops like squash and root vegetables store well, allowing you to stock up for winter.
4. Seed Savings: end-of-season sales at garden centres can be a great time to stock up on seeds for both immediate planting and next year.

Caring for Your Fall Garden

To ensure success with your summer-planted fall garden:

1. Watering: Be diligent about watering during the heat of late summer to help seeds germinate and seedlings establish.
2. Mulching: Use organic mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature as the weather cools.
3. Pest Management: Keep an eye out for pests that might damage your young plants during the late summer months.
4. Frost Protection: Be prepared to cover sensitive plants when the first frost threatens.

As you plan your fall garden this summer, remember that timing is key. Consult local planting calendars or your cooperative extension office to get specific planting dates for your area. Each region has its own "countdown to frost" that will guide your planting schedule.

The practice of planting now for later harvest is a time-honored tradition in gardening. It allows you to enjoy the pleasant weather of late summer and early fall while setting yourself up for a rewarding autumn harvest. There's something deeply satisfying about picking fresh vegetables as the leaves change color and the air turns crisp.

Moreover, fall gardening often comes with fewer pest problems and more comfortable working conditions than the height of summer. As an added bonus, many fall crops improve in flavor after a light frost, giving you the best-tasting produce of the year.

So, as you enjoy your summer garden, take some time to visit your local garden centre, gather your supplies, and start planning for a productive fall garden. By planting now, you'll save money, extend your harvest, and enjoy the fruits of your labor well into the cooler months. Happy gardening!