Radishes, carrots, beets and turnips can be ready before the frost
Jennifer Wieland
| Special to The News-Messenger
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USA TODAY
Northern Ohio — August might feel like the beginning of the end for summer gardens, but in truth, it’s the beginning of a second growing season. With the average first frost hitting in mid- to late October, there is still time to plant vegetables and herbs that thrive in cool weather.
Gardeners in USDA Zones 5B to 6A, which covers most of Northern Ohio, can take advantage of this window by sowing fast-growing and cold-tolerant crops throughout early and mid-August.
What to plant now
Local experts recommend leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, kale and arugula, which can be harvested in as little as 30 days. Radishes, carrots, beets and turnips are also excellent choices for root crops, with many varieties maturing before the first frost.
For gardeners with indoor seed-starting space or access to transplants, this is also a great time to plant cool-weather brassicas like broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower.
Even herbs get a second chance. Cilantro, parsley and chives are perfect for planting now and will thrive as temperatures drop.
Tending your fall garden
Keep soil rich by adding compost after removing spent summer crops. August’s heat means consistent watering is still crucial, especially for new seedlings. Mulching around young plants helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool.
As fall approaches, consider installing row covers or cold frames to shield crops from early frosts and extend your harvest into late October — or even November.
Why it matters
Planting in August stretches your harvest and takes advantage of cooler temperatures that improve the flavor of many vegetables. Carrots, kale and spinach often become sweeter after a light frost.
“Fall gardening is one of the best-kept secrets in Ohio,” a local garden educator said. “It’s less stressful than spring, fewer bugs and the results are just as satisfying.”
So before you hang up your garden gloves, take another look at your backyard beds: There’s still plenty of growing left to do.
Jennifer Wieland is a Master Gardener for the Sandusky and Ottawa Counties Extension Offices.
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