Autumn is the most important time to begin planting your garden, especially within the first 5-6 weeks. Read more to find out why.
- This slender window of time is ideal for new plants to develop roots when the soil is warm before cooler temperatures in late fall and winter slow plant growth.
- This is also the ideal time to plant a winter vegetable garden of leafy greens, root crops and cool-season herbs.
Specialty drip irrigation devices are recommended for flower beds and vegetable gardens. Try using in-line drippers, porous hose, irrigation tape or bubblers, so your vegetable garden will also be water efficient.
Start preparing your garden for fall planting by amending with compost and slow-release fertilizer. Replenish depleted and sparse mulch material.
Transplant deciduous and citrus container-grown plants while soil temperatures are still warm enough for rapid root growth. Plant spring-flowering perennials in the second-half of September.
Fertilize citrus trees this month and water deeply before and after fertilizing. Once temperatures drop below 100 F, start adjusting how you water citrus and other fruit trees. Water deeply, but not as often as in the summer months. - Avoid pruning fruit trees this month but begin fertilizing roses. When temperatures dip below 100 F, prune roses lightly to remove dead or diseased canes.
- Early in the month (before Sept. 15), plant seeds of summer squash and beans.
- All month plant seeds of bok choy, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, chard, collard greens, cucumbers, endive, kale, kohlrabi, leaf lettuce, mustard, green onions, parsnips, radishes, rutabagas, spinach and turnips.
Sources:
“Flower Planting Guide for the Low Desert,” by University of Arizona College of Agriculture and Life Sciences; Growinginthedesert.com
“Lush and Efficient: Desert-Friendly Landscaping in the Coachella Valley,” by Coachella Valley Water District;
“Month by Month Planting Guide for the Coachella Valley,” by Palm Springs High School Sustainable Garden Club;
For more even more resources, visit Coachella Valley Water District’s website at CVWD.org
