September is in its full force. And while for some that means the beginning of the back-to-school season, for others, particularly gardening enthusiast—this is the time when you start preparing your garden for the colder months. This is a crucial phase in the gardening calendar, and it’s important to spend it wisely. So, if you’re looking for tasks to add to your garden to-do list this September, then you’re at the right place. Here are some things that you shouldn’t miss out on.
Plant Fall Bulbs for Spring Blooms
September is ideal for planting bulbs that bloom in the spring, such as tulips, daffodils, and also crocuses. Cooler soil temperatures promote root growth, ensuring lovely blooms the next year. By burying these hidden gems in the ground right away, you’ll have a kaleidoscope colors once spring arrives. For your bulbs, pick a spot that has good drainage and lots of sunlight. Make sure they are well-watered and plant them at the appropriate depth, which is normally three times the height of the bulb. Bone meal or bulb fertilizer can be added to increase the plants’ capacity for growth.
Plant Cool-Season Vegetables
Plant cool-season veggies like lettuce, spinach, kale, and radishes to extend your gardening season. These plants flourish in the cooler fall weather and provide you with an endless supply of fresh produce far into the winter. September gardening doesn’t have to mean giving up on fresh produce. Choose a sunny area of your yard and plant seeds there directly, or use transplants to get a head start. To prevent bolting and ensure a bountiful harvest, keep the soil continually moist and offer shade on very hot days.
Prep Your Lawn for Fall
Did you know that September is also the ideal time to take care of your lawn? Consider overseeding barren sections, doing soil aeration to lessen soil compaction, and fertilizing your grass in the fall. In addition to complementing your landscape, a well-kept lawn also improves your outside area. If there is not enough rainfall, rake your lawn to a height of about 2.5 inches and deeply water it. To fill in bare spots and support the growth of your grass, proceed with overseeding. Nothing is better than having a luscious lawn, and September is the ideal month to make that happen.
Harvest and Preserve
September marks the peak of many harvests, from tomatoes to apples. Gather your ripe vegetables and fruits, and consider preserving the bounty through canning, freezing, or making jams and jellies. Preserving your harvest is a delightful way to enjoy your garden’s treasures year-round. Be sure to follow proper canning and freezing techniques to ensure food safety. Get creative with preserving your harvest to enjoy garden-fresh flavors during the winter. It’s a way of capturing the essence of your garden’s abundance and savoring it in every season.
Prepare for Frost
As fall progresses, frost becomes a concern. Be prepared to protect tender plants by having frost blankets or cloths on hand. A little foresight can go a long way in safeguarding your garden from the chill of the impending season. Keep an eye on weather forecasts. When frost is predicted, cover vulnerable plants in the evening, removing the covers in the morning once temperatures rise above freezing. It’s like tucking your garden in for a cozy night’s sleep.
