Fall Planting Tips
Written By Chris Wiig,
Director of Operations
Butternut Squash Enthusiast
“I hear the horns of Autumn blow to the wild-fowl overhead;
And I hear the hush before the snow. And what is that to dread?" -Kipling [The Prairie]
Autumn is here. I adore this season so much. It’s time to dawn that zip up hoodie (although here in Nebraska that could switch at any moment) and get outside while we can. As the summer heat fades, fall presents a unique opportunity to rejuvenate your garden. Cooler temperatures and fewer pests make it an ideal time to plant a variety of crops.
Start by clearing out any spent summer crops and weeds. This will make room for your fall plantings. Enrich your soil with compost or well-rotted manure to replenish nutrients. Mulching is crucial; a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch will help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and protect roots from early frosts. This simple step can make a significant difference in your garden’s health and productivity. Shop local for your mulch or soil, I recommend checking out Soil Dynamics.
Choosing the Right Plants: Utilize cool season vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and leafy greens, which thrive in autumn’s milder temperatures. Root crops such as carrots and beets are also excellent choices, as they tend to get sweeter as the days grow cooler. Don’t forget about hardy herbs like parsley and cilantro, which can withstand light frosts and add fresh flavors to your fall dishes.
Regular watering is essential, but be mindful not to overwater, especially since fall often brings more rainfall. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared to cover tender plants with old sheets or row covers during unexpected frosts. This proactive approach will help protect your crops and ensure a bountiful harvest.
Consider succession planting to get the most out of your fall garden, . This involves planting new crops as soon as previous ones are harvested, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh produce. I found this article to be helpful. Additionally, pay attention to the maturity dates on your seed packets and plan accordingly to make the most of the remaining growing season.
Finally, I leave you with a Butternut Squash recipe I found a couple years ago, that is a household staple. Feel free to substitute the chicken stock with veggie stock for more vegetarian friendly households. Click here to download recipe!
Tom’s Pro Tip: Pair with an oaked Chardonnay, a Chenin Blanc or even a Riesling for the ultimate fall meal!