The biggest key to fall vegetable gardens is knowing when to plant. The date of the average frost locally is about Nov. 10, and warm weather vegetables need to start maturing at least two-three weeks before frost to justify the effort.
Below are suggested planting dates. Those that handle light frost well and that will improve in flavor are denoted with *.
Beans small bush (seed), Aug. 1-Sept. 1 Beans snap pole (seed), Aug. 1-Sept. 1
*Broccoli (transplants), Aug. 1-Sept. 15;
*Brussel sprouts (transplants), Aug. 1-Sept. 15;
*Cauliflower (transplants, Aug. 15-Sept. 15;
Corn sweet (seed), Aug. 1-15;
Peas, black-eyed (seed), July 1-Aug.
*Spinach (seed), Sept. 1-Oct. 15;
Squash summer (seed or transplants), July 15-Aug. 15;
Tomatoes (transplants), July 15-Aug. 1
*Turnips (seed), Oct. 1-Nov. 1.
Shade is needed for newly sprouted seeds and transplants with adequate watering. Nutrient levels are usually low after your spring garden, so fertilizer and/or manure may be needed.
J.T. McKennon, Smith County Master Gardener
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