The Organic Urban Gardener asked his followers to give one ‘special Autumn (Fall) vegetable gardening tip’ on his Facebook page. In this clip, he reveals the best tips for anyone who wants to continue gardening throughout the cooler months.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=60cLHz1qAUU

Don’t give up! Many plants and veggies can survive and prosper throughout autumn

Lots of people think that once summer has gone, that is the end of the growing season. Think again. Many vegetables can be grown throughout autumn and even winter as long as you look after them.

Harvest tomatoes before they freeze or take action so they don’t get frost bitten

You could move the plants to a greenhouse, or again cover them. Coverings can be as simple as newspaper.

Eat your vegetables before they get over-ripe

Sounds obvious, but all too often if a plant is producing well, you seem to get a glut of produce. Even if you have a large amount of fruit or vegetables, pick them at the right time. You can always parboil and freeze them, stew and can them, or even give them to friends. My good friend Emma grew courgettes this year. She had too many for her needs, so gave me some each week. In turn, I had a good crop of apples this autumn. I gave her my excess. We were both delighted.

Watch night time temperature

The Urban Organic Gardener suggests when temps fall to about 40 degrees F, (4 degrees C) that is when you start to take action. Again either cover the plants or remove them to a slightly warmer environment such as a greenhouse. He also suggests watching out for widely varying temperatures.

Make a note of what went well, and what didn’t work, before you forget

If you keep a gardening diary you will have the advantage of being able to review your gardening activity. Include dates of planting and harvesting. The more knowledge you have, the better choices you can make for the forthcoming year.

Grow favourite herbs on the kitchen window sill

This is a great tip. It’s lovely to have fresh herbs all year round. In my experience herbs to just as well on a window sill as out in the garden.

I think it’s important to know that organic gardening doesn’t have to stop just because the seasons change. You don’t have to follow all of the tips if it seems overwhelming. Just concentrate on one or two to begin with.

Filed under: Organic Kitchen

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