September Garden Check List
September marks the beginning of autumn in the Northeast, a season of changing leaves, cooler temperatures, and a shift in gardening focus. While the growing season isn't over yet, it's time to start preparing for the winter months ahead. Here's a breakdown of essential tasks for Northeast home gardeners in September:
Vegetable Garden
Harvest: Continue harvesting late-season crops like tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, and squash. Pay close attention to ripening indicators to ensure optimal flavor and quality.
Plant for Fall: Consider planting cool-weather crops like kale, spinach, arugula, and radishes for a continuous harvest.
Protect Against Pests: Keep an eye out for pests that may be attracted to late-season crops, such as aphids, cabbage worms, or tomato hornworms. Use organic pest control methods or row covers to protect your plants.
Prepare for Winter: If you're planning to plant garlic or onions for next spring, prepare the soil now by amending it with compost or well-rotted manure.
Flower Garden
Deadhead: Remove spent blooms from perennials to encourage continuous flowering and prevent self-seeding.
Divide Perennials: Divide overcrowded perennials like daylilies, peonies, and hostas to rejuvenate them and create new plants.
Plant Fall Bulbs: Begin planting fall bulbs like daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths for a colorful display next spring.
Protect Tender Plants: If you live in a region with harsh winters, consider protecting tender perennials and shrubs with mulch or burlap sacks.
Lawn Care
Aerate: Aerate your lawn to improve drainage and allow nutrients to reach the roots.
Fertilize: Apply a fall fertilizer to promote root growth and help your lawn recover from the summer stress.
Dethatch: If your lawn has a thick layer of thatch, dethatch it to improve air circulation and nutrient absorption.
Mow: Continue mowing your lawn at a height of 2-3 inches to promote healthy growth and reduce stress on the roots.
Tree and Shrub Care
Prune: Prune deciduous trees and shrubs to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of trees and shrubs to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect roots from extreme temperatures.
Fertilize: If needed, fertilize trees and shrubs in the fall to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth.
Other Tasks
Clean Up: Clean up garden debris, such as fallen leaves and twigs, to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering.
Prepare for Winter: Store gardening tools and equipment in a dry, sheltered location to protect them from the elements.
Plan for Next Season: Start planning your garden for next year by reviewing your gardening journal and making note of any successes or challenges.
