This month’s focus is on the art of harvesting, a skill that can be learned and mastered with practice. It’s not just about picking ripe fruits and vegetables; it’s about understanding the plant’s life cycle and respecting its natural rhythms. The article will explore the different stages of harvesting, from the initial stages of planting to the final stages of harvest.

Regularly inspecting your plants for signs of pests and diseases is crucial for successful gardening. This proactive approach allows you to catch problems early, before they escalate into major issues. Imagine a small aphid infestation on a tomato plant.

● Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Employ a holistic approach to pest control, focusing on prevention and minimizing the use of pesticides. IPM integrates various strategies, including biological control, cultural practices, and targeted pesticide application. ● Cover Crops Plant cover crops during the off-season to protect the soil from erosion, improve soil fertility, and enhance water retention.

● Companion Planting I’ve done full articles on this in the past, and, yes, the rumors of interplanting certain crops to repel pests or in some cases to redirect pests to focus on another herb or plant is a strategy you should be using to keep your plants healthier during the season. Marigolds, basil, cilantro, lemon balm and more should be considered as crucial for all levels of farming and gardening. Time for Direct Seeding for Fall In zone 6, August is a great time to direct seed several vegetables for a fall harvest. Here are some options to consider: Arugula, Bush Beans, Beets, Broccoli, Carrots, Chives, Kohlrabi, Kale, Lettuce, Mustard Greens, Radishes, Peas, Spinach, Turnips.

Thank you for your time, and, as always, for any farm or gardening questions, please reach out to canyoudigit413@gmail.com ■