RADIO TRANSCRIPT
Date:  August 12, 2021
Agent:  Donna Teasley

Hello, this is Donna Teasley, horticulture agent with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension, Burke Center.

Is the vegetable garden beginning to look a little worn? It’s been a long, hot summer and gardens have struggled. But, the fall growing season is just about upon us and if you want to try some fall veggies, August is the time for a fresh start.

Fall crops can grow and produce well into the winter and the fall gardener can continue to enjoy fresh produce until early winter. Cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower are great fall choices as well as brussels sprouts, collards and all types of greens such as lettuce and spinach. Beets are a great fall crop also.

Fall crops enjoy the cooler temps and many benefit from light frost. But, they need to get established now while the soil is still warm. With crops such as cabbage and broccoli, plants are your best bet. They will grow quickly. Leafy crops such as mustard greens can easily be sown from seed. They can be harvested many times before freezing weather takes them down.

Just remember that planting during hot weather requires extra water. Insects can also be an issue so keep an eye out for worms, especially on cabbage and broccoli. Make sure they have plenty of fertilizer because they need to grow and mature quickly to beat the winter freeze.

So, if you’re not ready to say good bye to the growing season just yet, try some fall crops to extend your growing season!

This is Donna Teasley with the North Carolina Cooperative, Burke Center. If you would like more information about this program you can call us at 764-9480.