Plan for a fall garden
Want some homegrown vegetables this fall and winter? Time to plan now.

First, decide what you want to grow. Georgia’s mild winters give you several options.

To grow any of the Brassica-family crops—including cabbage, broccoli and collards—sow the seeds in August or September.

Carrot seeds can be planted from August to November in south Georgia. They’re not recommended for north Georgia fall gardens.

Many warm-season vegetables can be sown or transplanted in August in south Georgia for fall production. This includes tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, eggplants, cantaloupes and okra.

Onions are a good choice for transplanting in mid-winter. Look for plants from your garden center starting in November or sow seeds of short-day onions in October.

To prepare your garden, clear out previous crop residues, till the soil for sowing or transplanting, have a soil sample tested and apply fertilizer.

It’s hot work this time of year, so drink plenty of water and wear lightweight, breathable clothes, a broad-brimmed hat and sunscreen. Working early in the morning or late in the evening is best.

Whether you sow seeds or plant transplants, water is going to be critical to get plants successfully established. You may have to water lightly several times a day to ensure good seed germination.