What to plant & harvest in September

Garlic: September is an excellent time to plant garlic. Choose a sunny spot in your garden and prepare the soil by incorporating compost.

Spinach: Spinach thrives in the cooler temperatures of fall. Sow seeds directly into the garden or containers about 1/2 inch deep. Spinach is a fast-growing leafy green that can be harvested young or allowed to mature.

Kale: Kale is another leafy green that loves the cooler weather. It’s hardy and can even survive frost. Sow kale seeds directly in the garden or start them in pots. Once the seedlings are about 4 inches tall, you can begin to harvest the leaves.

Carrots: they benefit from the cooler temperatures of fall, which help them develop a sweet flavor. Sow carrot seeds directly into the garden, and be patient as they take several weeks to germinate.

Peas: peas can be sown in late summer or early fall for a fall harvest. They prefer cooler temperatures and will benefit from a mild autumn. Plant seeds directly into the garden and provide support for climbing varieties.

Tomatoes: September is typically the end of the tomato season. Harvest tomatoes that are fully colored and slightly soft to the touch. If there are still green tomatoes on the vine, you can pick them and let them ripen indoors.

Peppers: Peppers should be harvested when they have reached their full color and size. Depending on the variety, they can be green, red, yellow, or orange. Be sure to cut them from the plant with a sharp knife to avoid damaging the plant.

Cucumbers: If you planted cucumbers in early summer, they should still be producing in September. Pick cucumbers when they are firm and about 6-8 inches long for the best flavor. Regular harvesting encourages continued production.

Apples and Pears: In many regions, September is apple and pear harvest time. Check the maturity of your fruit by gently twisting it off the tree. If it comes off easily and the color is right, it’s time to harvest. Store apples in a cool, dry place and pears in a slightly warmer area to ripen.

Herbs: Many herbs are at their peak in September. Harvest basil, mint, oregano, and thyme before the first frost. You can dry or freeze herbs to enjoy their flavor throughout the year.