Hartley Magazine

All the latest news, hints, tips and advice from our experts

Time to plant ‘cool season’ crops

Americans living in areas where there are only light frosts over fall and winter should be preparing for cool season gardening, it has been suggested.

Seeds for a number of hardy vegetables can be planted in August, according to the Examiner.

It suggested garden and greenhouse lovers avoid planning out “tender” varieties such as tomatoes and peppers as they will not have sufficient time to develop before the heat fades.

The article advised: “If you have a compost heap, make sure it doesn‘t dry out. This warm weather will convert the waste into compost quickly so long as air and water are available.”

It told how forking it over can help, while the organic material itself can be used to help keep plant roots warm during winter by providing an extra layer of insulation.

Horticulture lovers should not forget to take a break and enjoy the surroundings they have created, the author added, suggesting air quality is best in the cool mornings or breezy evenings.

Meanwhile, a garden and greenhouse grower recently explained on KMBC.com that green beans, zucchini, cucumbers, lettuce and radish are all vegetables that can be planted in the coming weeks.