As we enter the debilitating heat and humidity of late summer, most of us who garden are ready to take a break. Sitting on the patio and drinking a big cold glass of sweet tea is about all we can manage. But if you want a lush crop of cool-season vegetables to harvest later in the year, now is the time to start planning and planting that fall garden.

It may not make sense, but vegetables that thrive in cooler temperatures, are planted in the heat of late summer in Georgia. The beauty of planting a fall garden is that eventually the heat will dissipate, as well as insect pests and many plant diseases, making tending a cool-season garden a very pleasant experience.

So what to plant? Fall vegetables, such as cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, lettuce, kale, collard greens, turnips, carrots, and chard are great options. For best results, plant transplants (seedlings) of broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts. You will find seedlings in garden centers in late summer, or you can start your own seed trays five to six weeks before planting. Other fall vegetables, such as carrots, mustard greens, turnips, collards and lettuce can be sown by seeds directly into the garden.

Tips for a Healthy Fall Garden:

Make sure your vegetable garden bed has at least 6-8 hours of sunlight.

Consider planting in raised beds or even containers.

Plan now to take a soil sample of your vegetable garden bed to the local extension office to learn what nutrients you might need to add to your soil to ensure optimal conditions for your plants.

To improve drainage, amend your soil with compost.

Water your transplants or seeds regularly and keep them moist, especially when first planted in the heat!

Monitor for insects and diseases.

Plan your menus with your delicious, fresh fall vegetables!