Berkshire Gardener Embraces Late Summer with Planting and Harvesting Tips

As summer winds down, gardening enthusiasts are gearing up for a busy late season. The Lazy Berkshire Gardener, reflecting on a weekend of tending to plants, embraced the cooler temperatures and focused on essential tasks to maintain the garden’s health. With temperatures recently dipping into the 70s, the gardener has prioritized watering and weeding to ensure a thriving landscape.

Attention to detail is crucial during this period. The gardener notes that while the soil remains dry and hard, it is imperative to prevent weeds from flowering. Watering routines are in full swing, with daily care for the vegetable garden and newly planted perennials every two days. August-blooming perennials, known for their drought resistance, promise an extended display of color if properly maintained.

Among the new additions under consideration are the vibrant coneflower plants, specifically the hybrid Echinacea ‘Cheyenne Spirit.’ This variety captivates gardeners with its ability to produce flowers in shades of white, peach, yellow, orange, pink, and deep burgundy, often changing color from year to year. Such diversity not only enriches flower beds but also seamlessly integrates with fall asters and goldenrod.

The goldenrod, a native plant with over 20 species in New England, plays a vital role in supporting biodiversity. According to research by Doug Tallamy, Solidago spp. encourages the presence of more than 100 species of moths and butterflies, making it essential for pollinators. This plant’s heavy pollen is designed to stick to visiting insects, ensuring its role in the ecosystem without triggering allergy symptoms.

As summer progresses, the gardener has pruned the fading Shasta daisies to tidy up the landscape. This practice not only enhances the flower beds but also invites birds to visit for the remaining seed heads. With fall approaching, garden centers are now stocking fall-blooming crocus bulbs (Colchicum). These bulbs, resembling large crocuses, will surprise homeowners with their impressive blooms in September, adding to the autumnal aesthetic.

In terms of vegetable harvest, the gardener has observed the effects of inconsistent watering on carrots, which have split due to neglect during the hottest days. While some carrots remain edible despite their condition, timely harvesting is advised to prevent further damage. Lettuce and other greens are also facing challenges, as they have begun to bolt. To salvage the crop, cutting back the stems can mitigate the bitterness that often accompanies this stage.

The late-season raspberries are receiving attention as well, with a watering schedule adjusted to every other day during high heat. The absence of Japanese beetles is a welcome sign, indicating that the worst of the damage has passed. The gardener anticipates enjoying these berries by early September.

In an effort to protect the peach trees from pests, polyester Remay fabric was used as a barrier against Japanese beetles. Fortunately, the trees emerged with minimal damage and are expected to recover fully. With the ripening of tomatoes, creative preservation methods are being employed. The gardener opts for an easy oven-drying technique that transforms fresh tomatoes into a flavorful spread, capturing the essence of summer for winter enjoyment.

Mid-August brings additional reminders for gardeners. As houseplants transition back indoors, pest prevention becomes crucial, necessitating treatments with insecticidal soap. The gardener also emphasizes the importance of properly drying onions, shallots, and garlic before storage, and encourages saving seeds from non-hybrid vegetables for future planting.

The Lazy Berkshire Gardener reflects on a philosophy of low-maintenance gardening. By allowing nature to take its course, the gardener finds joy in observing the landscape while minimizing effort. This approach not only enhances the garden’s beauty but also aligns with sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the gardener’s well-being.