Watering/Fertilizing
Most vegetables require 1 inch of water per week. It's best to make a single watering that penetrates deeply rather than frequent shallow applications. Young seedlings and germinating seeds may need more frequent, light waterings. Do not allow seedlings to dry out excessively. New transplants may also benefit from frequent light waterings. When temperatures cool down so does the evaporation process...so you won't need to water as much when temperatures cool down.
Many fall maturing vegetables benefit from sidedressing with nitrogen just as do spring maturing vegetables. Most leafy vegetables will benefit from an application of nitrogen three and six weeks after planting. Organic gardeners will want to avoid the use of commercial "ammonium nitrate" fertilizer. Cottonseed meal is a slower releasing organic source of nitrogen.
Insects and Diseases
It is not uncommon for insects and diseases to be more abundant in the fall. Most problems from insects and diseases result from a buildup in their populations during the spring and summer. There is hope of keeping these pests at tolerable levels, however, if a few strategies are followed. Strive to keep fall vegetables healthy and actively growing; healthy plants are less susceptible to insects and diseases. Check the plants frequently for insect and disease damage. When sufficient damage is detected, use an approved pesticide or alternatively use organic methods for insect control.
Frost Protection
Most of the semi-hardy and hardy fall vegetables will require little or no frost protection. Root crops such as carrots and radishes should be harvested or mulched heavily before a hard freeze. The harvest of mulched root crops can often be extended will into the winter. During mild winters, harvest may continue till spring.
List of Popular Fall Vegetables
- Beets
- Broccoli
- Brussel Sprouts
- Cabbage
- Carrots
- Cauliflower
- Collards
- Kale
- Lettuce
- Mustard
- Onions
- Radishes
- Spinach
- Turnips
