Isn’t it fascinating to see how your garden evolves with the seasons? As the days grow longer, so do the opportunities to cultivate a stunning garden throughout the year.
I have come to cherish tending to my garden in Peterborough, New Hampshire, over many years, appreciating the beauty and challenges of each season.
Today, I’m thrilled to show you how to keep your garden vibrant and productive from spring to summer, fall, and winter. Then you can optimize your space to avoid wasting.Â
Let’s explore the year-round gardening calendar together – simply follow these ideas to know what you should be doing and when!
Spring: A Time of Renewal
Spring is the most energetic time of the year for gardeners. As the frost begins to thaw, the garden awakens with the first green shoots popping through.
Early Spring (March to April): This is the perfect time to plant vegetables like peas, spinach, and lettuce. These vegetables thrive in the light frost of early spring. It’s also an ideal time to plant perennial herbs such as chives, thyme, and sage.
Late Spring (May): As the ground starts to warm, it’s time to sow warmth-loving crops like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers. To save crops, keep some frost covers just in case.
Summer: Abundance and Care
Summer is a time of rapid activity in the garden. It’s your chance to enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Early to Mid-Summer (June to July): It is ideal to plant quick-growing heat lovers like beans, squash, and corn. Remember to water either in the early morning or evening to avoid evaporation.
Late Summer (August): Start planting for the fall harvest, such as broccoli, kale, and carrots. Make use of the cooling temperatures to plant a new batch of lettuce and spinach.
Fall: Getting Ready and Transition
As fall approaches, the garden slows its pace, but there are still plenty of gardening activities to keep you busy.
Early Fall: Summer crops are still being harvested, and it’s suitable to plant garlic and onions for next year’s harvest. Fill empty spaces with cool-tolerant greens.
Late Fall (October-November): Prepare for the next winter. Mulch around perennials, clean up fallen leaves and consider planting cover crops like winter rye to enrich the soil.
Winter: Plan and Protect
Winter may be a quiet time, but it’s a great time for preparation.
Early Winter (December): In milder climates, you can continue growing cold-hardy vegetables like kale and Brussels sprouts. If you live in a colder climate, spend time planning for the next crop.
Late Winter (January to February): You can start by growing basil and parsley on the windowsill to wait for spring.
3 Keys to Year-Round Gardening Success
Have a Plan
A gardening plan outlines tasks and goals for each season, ensuring preparedness and organization. By mapping out activities like planting, you will know what to prepare and plant for year-round gardening.
Be Consistent
Love your gardening every day. By spending time walking in the garden, observing changes, and relishing its beauty, gardeners foster a deeper connection with their plants and surroundings.
Be Hard-Working
Gardening requires dedication, from watering and mulching to adding compost and addressing diseases. Gardeners should invest their time to grow their outdoor space.
Gardening keeps your spirits high and your pantry full.
Whether you are sowing seeds in spring or harvesting in summer, each season offers its joys and challenges.
Remember, all the efforts you make to care for your garden add up to a year of beauty and abundance. Keep planting, keep planning, and keep loving every moment in your garden!
