FALL HARVEST: Most summer produce in gardens is beginning to dwindle, leading farmers to plant their fall vegetables and start preparations, canning for the winter. According to the Farmers’ Almanac, one such crop is garlic. Garlic is usually planted within the first or second week of October, covered in approximately six inches of mulch (shredded leaves or grass clippings). The best part, garlic requires minimal to no tending and will be ready to harvest the following July.

The Farmers’ Almanac also said, the best time to start your fall garden is in August or September, however gardeners should also be wary to check for the region’s first frost dates. In order to avoid an early frost destroying your harvest, sow early-maturing varieties of veggies so they have the opportunity to fully mature before being impacted by weather. Another avenue to avoid the first frost would be transplanting young seedlings from a garden center.

These vegetables are recommended by the Farmers’ Almanac to make a beautiful fall garden: Beets, plant eight to 12 weeks before first frost; Bok Choy (Chinese Cabbage), plant eight to 10 weeks before frost; Broccoli, plant 10 to 12 weeks before frost; Cabbage, plant 10 to 12 weeks before frost; Carrots, can stay in the ground until December; Leafy Greens, plant eight weeks before frost; Leeks, can survive winter freeze; Radish, one month before frost; Sugar Snap Peas/ Snow Peas, can also tolerate winter freeze; and Parsnips and Turnips, which actually taste better after a few frosts.

Consider adding Chrysanthemums and Pansies, for a bit of ambiance in your garden. Also, if you intend to have spring bulbs, such as daffodils, tulips, hyacinths or lilies blooming on your property in the early spring next year you will need to plan ahead by planting the bulbs in late September/October.