If you’re looking to nourish your body and soul as you continue on your path to better health, planning a fall garden is just what you need. And it’s my favorite time of the year to garden!
By extending your growing season, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown veggies well into November and December, even in Chicagoland. Let’s dive into how you can make the most of this transition period.
Why Plant a Fall Garden?
Growing your own food is one of the most empowering steps you can take towards improving your health. A fall garden not only provides you with fresh, nutrient-rich homegrown goodness long after summer ends, but it also gives you control over what you’re putting into your body.
Cooler-weather veggies often have more intense, sweeter flavors. And with fewer pests, your garden becomes a stress-free, restorative space.
What to Plant for Fall
Here are some of my favorite fall crops that thrive in cooler temperatures:
- Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard — packed with vitamins and minerals to boost your immune system.
- Root Vegetables: Carrots, beets, and radishes — rich in antioxidants and great for promoting heart health.
- Brassicas: Broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbages — full of fiber and vital nutrients to support your overall well-being.
- Herbs: Parsley, cilantro, and dill — flavorful additions that can help reduce your reliance on processed foods.
Getting Started
- Start Seeds Indoors: Sowing seeds indoors is a gentle, low-stress way to start your garden. It’s a process that brings life into your home and gets you excited about the healthy meals you’ll soon be harvesting.
- Prepare Your Garden Beds: Clear out any summer veggies and herbs that have finished producing or look like they’re tired. Add compost to enrich the soil for the next round of planting.
- Transplant and Direct Sow: When your seedlings are ready, transplant them into your garden. Quick-growing crops like radishes and leafy greens can be direct sown, giving you a fresh harvest in just a few weeks.
Protecting Your Fall Garden
- Use Row Covers: Row covers can protect your fall crops from early frosts and pests, ensuring they stay healthy and productive.
- Mulch Generously: Mulching helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, giving your plants a stable environment to grow in.
Keep in Touch!
How is your summer garden doing? I’d love to hear how gardening is helping you on your journey to better health.
Sharing your experiences can inspire others who are also focused on improving their well-being. Together, let’s make your fall garden a source of health and happiness!
Stay cool and happy gardening!
