By Beverly Adams
Temperatures are dropping, leaves are falling, and home gardeners are beginning to plan their fall vegetables.
If you’re new to food gardening, University of Georgia Cooperative Extension offers tips that should lead to a successful fall harvest.
Establish the garden in a location that receives full sunlight, from six to eight hours per day.
University of Georgia Cooperative Extension experts say before planting seeds or transplants, first have your soil tested. After adding the recommended nutrients, then select plant varieties that are known to perform well in Georgia.
Prepare the soil before planting based on soil test recommendations. A laboratory soil test takes the guesswork out of determining whether the soil needs fertilizer or lime to nourish your fall garden crops.
To have your soil tested, visit the Extension website for directions on taking soil samples. Then bring your dry soil sample to your local Extension office with the $10 testing fee.
Plant fall vegetables on schedule and use varieties that are recommended for Georgia. For a list of recommended cultivars and planting dates, refer to UGA Extension Circular 963, “Vegetable Gardening in Georgia,” at extension.uga.edu/publications.
Control weeds, pest insects and diseases.
When Mother Nature does not supply rainfall, water your garden thoroughly at soil level.
And, as always, if you have any questions, contact your local Extension office at 1-800-ASK-UGA1 for advice.