The first two weeks of August are appropriate times to plant some garden vegetables in southern Missouri according to Robert Balek, horticulture specialist with University of Missouri Extension.
“Specific varieties can be planted by seed, or by setting out starts,” Balek said.
Garden soil should be prepared for planting. In established gardens, some additional fertilizer may be needed, especially if crops or excessive weeds have been removed from the site previously this season.
Balek recommends choosing your fall garden selections wisely.
“Some vegetables are best planted in spring and early summer and require the longer season, or warmer temperatures to provide a good yield,” he said. “However, there are certain varieties that can provide a rewarding yield when planted in late summer.”
Individuals can jump-start their fall garden by setting out plants like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts.
“In southern Missouri, these are best set out in early to mid-August after some summer heat has passed, and the cooler weather will soon be upon them,” Balek said. “August plantings of these varieties are typically higher quality than spring plantings due to cool fall weather.”
Other vegetable crops can be directly seeded into the soil.
Snap bush bean varieties recommended for fall planting include Contender, Provider, Derby, Strike, Tema, Tendercrop, Top Crop, and Purple Queen. Half-runner types include Mountaineer, State, and Striped. Wax bush bean varieties include Cherokee Wax, Gold Crop, Slender Wax, Gold mine, Gold Rush, and Eureka. Other bean types or varieties may not produce in a fall garden.
Beets and carrots can be started from seed for a fall garden, with success. Sweet corn can yield if planted before Aug. 15.
Salad greens for fall planting include Loose-Leaf Lettuce, Butterhead Lettuce, mustard, and spinach.
For more information, log onto www.extension.missouri.edu and type “vegetable planting calendar” in the search box, or locate publication G6201.
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