We are at the point in the summer where the heat feels oppressive and even the plants flop over in the afternoon, and I can relate. Many believe that there is nothing to be done in the garden in the heat of the summer besides keep the weeds and bugs at bay and harvest what you planted in April. However, we still have time, if you are willing to brave the heat and keep things watered, we can still enjoy a harvest into the fall. 

We still have plenty of time for our heat loving nightshade family, tomatoes (preferably shorter day varieties), peppers and eggplant. Squash will also do well throughout the heat, summer varieties such as yellow, crookneck, zucchini, or patty pan. All of these will do better if set out as transplants, either early in the morning, or late evening to reduce stress and kept watered! There still is time for melons, so if you like cantaloupe or honeydew, now is the time, but don’t delay. 

Whether we want to believe it or not, fall is coming and planning needs to be done now. Winter squash varieties (acorn, butternut, spaghetti, delicata, etc) should be set out now for fall harvest. Now is also the time to start thinking about our collards! August should be the starting point for fall collards. Brussel sprouts take time, so starting them now, will ensure a harvest throughout the winter. 

Pumpkins can be started now, as well as sunflowers for fall bloom time! Don’t forget that fall is the best time for perennial plants, shrubs, and trees to be added to the landscape, so start thinking and planning now for home landscape improvements. 

There is plenty to do in the garden in the summer, it’s just we normally don’t feel like it! However, if you want to enjoy some fruits of labor in the fall, it’s time to start thinking cool thoughts, even if we won’t see them for a while. Wishing you all the happy gardening and bountiful harvests!

Jessica Anderson is the County Extension Director and Horticulture Agent for North Carolina Cooperative Extension’s Greene County Center. Contact the office at 747-5831.