Gardening Corner: Summer Planting Guide – What to Plant Now for a Vibrant Fall Garden in Georgia

Now is the ideal time to plan ahead and ensure your garden stays vibrant and colorful throughout the fall. Unleash your green thumb in our Victory Garden, which welcomes members of all ages. Our garden features several professionally designed, raised beds that make growing plants and vegetables a breeze. Explore our guide to discover what you can plant now in Georgia for a breathtaking autumn display.

1. Cool-Season Vegetables: Georgia’s mild fall climate is perfect for growing a variety of cool-season vegetables. Plant these now for a bountiful harvest in the fall:

• Broccoli: Start seeds indoors or purchase young plants from a local nursery. Broccoli thrives in cooler weather and will produce heads ready for harvest in about 60-80 days.
• Cabbage: Another cool-season favorite, cabbage can be planted directly in the ground. Choose varieties like ‘Savoy’ or ‘Red Cabbage’ for a splash of color.
• Carrots: Sow carrot seeds directly in the soil. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun. You can enjoy fresh, crunchy carrots in about 70-80 days.
• Spinach: This leafy green grows quickly and can be harvested multiple times. Plant seeds in well-prepared soil and keep them well-watered for the best results.

2. Flowering Plants: To keep your garden looking colorful through the fall, consider planting these beautiful blooms:

• Mums (Chrysanthemums): These quintessential fall flowers come in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, red, and purple. Plant mums in well-drained soil and full sun for a stunning autumn display.
• Pansies: Pansies are hardy and can withstand cooler temperatures. They come in a wide range of colors and are perfect for adding a splash of color to your garden beds or containers.
• Asters: Asters bloom in late summer and continue through the fall. Their star-shaped flowers attract butterflies and come in shades of purple, blue, pink, and white.
• Sedum (Stonecrop): Sedum is a low-maintenance perennial that produces clusters of star-shaped flowers in late summer and fall. It’s perfect for borders and rock gardens.

3. Herbs: Herbs not only add flavor to your meals but also bring fragrance and beauty to your garden. Consider planting these now:

• Cilantro: This herb grows quickly and prefers cooler weather. Plant seeds directly in the garden and enjoy fresh cilantro in your dishes in about 4-6 weeks.
• Parsley: Parsley is a biennial plant that can be harvested throughout the fall. Plant seeds or young plants in a sunny spot.
• Thyme: Thyme is a hardy perennial that thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. Its small, fragrant leaves are perfect for seasoning fall recipes.

Tips for Success

• Prepare the Soil: Ensure your soil is well-prepared before planting. Add compost or organic matter to improve soil structure and fertility.
• Watering: Keep new plantings well-watered, especially during the hot summer months. Once established, many fall plants require less frequent watering.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil temperature consistent.
• Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer to support healthy growth. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers or produce.

By planting these vegetables, flowers, and herbs now, you’ll set your garden up for a beautiful and productive fall season. Whether you’re harvesting fresh veggies or enjoying vibrant blooms, a little planning and effort now will pay off in the months to come.

Feel free to share your gardening tips and photos by tagging Harbor Club on your favorite social network. We’d love to see how your gardens are growing!