The Farmer’s Almanac has for generations been the go to book for gardening/planting schedules and information….As of late, it has been truly tested. Yes, Zone 9 – according to time – is on schedule for fall planting….but the temperature just won’t cooperate! The idea that the south could have an after spring, but before fall mid season garden was a fun idea, but not much of a success for us. An example of such is the beans that were planted but never sprouted because it was too hot. As were the sunburned tomato plants! A variety of yellow squash took off fabulously, and there are little baby squash on the flowering vines, so not all is a loss. The eggplants are still huge producers, as is the okra (the plants themselves are over 6-7 feet tall!)
There are also 3 more watermelons to be harvested and this one was soooooo sweet and delicious! A wonderful end of summer treat! I do look forward to cabbage, carrots, and even a few turnips! So, in the time vs temperature debate….we are sticking to somewhat of a middle of the road approach, with a leaning towards the temperature being the guide.
A recent conversation with a master gardener gave hope, though! When the night temperature falls below 72 for a 2 week stretch, we can fall plant. That means soon! This week has been a success and next will be promising…..so the beds are being made ready, the hand shovels and garden shoes are by the door, and the minute the word is go………a fall garden will be in! Excitement is building and it is so hard to be patient………..
We have an upcoming event that will surely get everyone in the mood for fall. This is a sample of the buffet centerpiece that will be used. Pottery, live fall plants, and baby pumpkins will set the stage to welcome the cooler weather!
