Summer’s finally here! Now it’s time to think about fall.
Even as the oppressing Oklahoma heat bears down on your garden, it’s the perfect opportunity to plan your fall crops. Some plants—such as tomatoes and peppers—will continue to fruit in high temperatures, though their production levels may slow a bit. These nightshades can be watered and maintained for a resurgence in the fall; some of their best work takes place in September and October, so just keep them alive and healthy. But other cultivars—such as legumes—are a different story.
Take heart: You have options. When a crop has signaled the end of its production life stage, its dying foliage can be tilled back into the soil (it is an excellent source of nitrogen) in preparation for a fall planting, usually in late July or early August. You can simply re-plant the same varieties you just harvested, or opt for different ones. If your freezer or pantry is full-up with green beans, you might opt for shell beans for your late-fall harvest. My particular favorites are Tiger-Eye Beans, Hutterite Soup Beans, and Hidasta Red Beans, all of which are usually ready to be picked in October. Even if there’s an early frost, the pods of these varieties can stay on the vine to begin their drying process, so it’s a win-win. Here are some other ideas:
- A second round of root crops. Turnips, beets, carrots, and radishes can be sowed mid-to-late summer for a fall harvest, although they may require more water than their spring counterparts.
- Cool-weather greens, such as Kale and Swiss Chard, can be sowed again—or, if you’ve managed to keep them going all summer, just prune them back and let them start producing new leaves in the fall.
- Autumn’s the optimal time for planting some brassicas, such as brussels sprouts, which actually thrive in cool weather.
- Garlic is ideal for fall sowing, as it will withstand brutal winters and will be kitchen-ready in the spring.
- Sweet potatoes are doubly rewarding: Not only will they offer you fresh material for your holiday pies, but you can enjoy their beautiful sprawling vines while you wait. Deep mailbox planters are ideal for these root-tubers, as your neighbors will enjoy their aesthetic qualities as well.
Starting a fall garden reminds us that our favorite pastime is year-round; no sooner than you start plucking your late-season crops, it will almost be time to start planning for next spring. That’s why you can never really say, “my garden is done.” Remember to stay hydrated as you ready your plots, pots, and raised bed for your fall planting!
Happy Gardening!