Cool Weather Veggies Planting Season Gets Under Way--Elinor Teague
Soil preparation is key, especially for root vegetables. They "do best in soil that is light and fluffy, that holds water without becoming soggy, and is rich in nutrients." Amend the soil with a 3-4" layer of decomposed compost, fertilizer, or commercial amendments. Work the amendments into the soil using a spade, fork, or tiller (for larger areas). Water the soil well. Let the garden set for two or three weeks to make sure any excess urea or nitrogen has been absorbed.
Seeds for winter vegetables can be started indoors, to be planted in the garden in mid-September when the weather cools. "Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kohlrabi and bok choy are best set out as 6- to 8-week old transplants."
Peas and chard can be planted from seed in late August because they can tolerate heat better than most leafy vegetables. "Root vegetables can become woody and develop a bitter taste during a late summer heat spell. Spinach and lettuce will 'bolt' or set flowers and also become bitter in high temperatures. Wait until at least the first week or two of September to plant them from seed."
Look for vegetable seeds that indicate they are for spring planting, as these are the seeds that we can plant for fall here in the Valley.
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Garden Checklist:
Forget the guilt about what's going on outside. It's not your fault that it's hot!
Tasks: Pre-irrigate to soften the ground for tilling in preparation for fall gardens
Pruning: Prune apricots and olives to reduce future disease problems
Fertilizing: Plants in containers
Planting: Do not plant annuals and perennials unless it is absolutely necessary; plant autumn crocus; from seed: broccoli, cabbage, carrot, cauliflower
Things to Ponder: Keep water away from trunks of trees and crowns of plants
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