TOMS RIVER, NJ – September marks the transition from summer to fall, and if you live in USDA hardiness Zone 7, it’s a crucial month for your garden. As the leaves begin to turn and the temperatures start to drop, you’ve got a window of opportunity to set the stage for a healthy, productive garden next year. Here’s a list of essential tasks to focus on.
Tidy Up the Garden
Remove Spent Plants
Take out any summer crops that have stopped producing to prevent diseases and pests from overwintering.
Weed Control
Removing weeds now can save you a lot of hassle in the spring. Weed roots are easier to remove when the soil is still warm.
Compost Management
Add disease-free spent plants and kitchen scraps to your compost pile. Turn the pile to encourage decomposition.
Prepare the Soil
Test and Amend Soil
A soil test will help you determine if you need to add any nutrients or adjust the pH. September is a good time to add organic matter like compost.
Mulching
Apply a layer of mulch to protect your soil from winter erosion and to suppress weeds.
Planting Tasks
Sow Fall Crops
Plant leafy greens like spinach, lettuce, and Swiss chard, as well as root vegetables like radishes and turnips for a late fall harvest.
Plant Spring Bulbs
Now is the time to plant bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths that will bloom in the spring.
Lawn Care
Fertilize the Lawn
Apply a slow-release, granular fertilizer to nourish your lawn through the winter months.
Seed Bare Patches
Reseed any bare or thin areas in your lawn to encourage new growth.
Tree and Shrub Care
Plant and Transplant
The cooler weather and increased rainfall make September ideal for planting new trees and shrubs, as well as transplanting established ones.
Prune Dead Limbs
Remove any dead or diseased branches from trees and shrubs.
Pest and Disease Management
Apply Horticultural Oils
These can be used to control overwintering pests on fruit trees and ornamental shrubs.
Remove Diseased Foliage
Discard any fallen leaves that show signs of disease to prevent it from spreading.
Equipment Maintenance
Clean and Store Tools
Give your gardening tools a good clean and store them properly to extend their lifespan.
Prepare Water Systems
Drain and store hoses and irrigation systems to prevent freeze damage.
By tackling these chores in September, you can prepare your Zone 7 garden for the cooler months ahead while laying the groundwork for a successful growing season next year. Happy gardening!