As summer has come  to an end, many gardeners assume it’s time to wrap up their growing season. However, with a little planning and the right tools, you can extend your garden’s productivity well into the cooler months. In Southern New Jersey, where temperatures remain moderate through early fall, there are plenty of opportunities to keep harvesting long after summer crops fade. At Bob’s Garden Center, we’re here to guide you through the process of maximizing your fall garden.

1. Choose the Right Crops for Fall Planting

Not all plants thrive in cooler temperatures, but many cool-season crops actually prefer the crisp air and shorter days of fall. Here are a few vegetables and herbs to consider:

– Leafy greens: Lettuce, spinach, kale, and arugula are cool-weather champions that can tolerate light frost and continue growing through the fall.

– Root vegetables: Carrots, beets, and radishes are perfect for fall planting. They develop sweeter flavors when exposed to cooler temperatures.

– Broccoli and cauliflower: These brassicas thrive in the cooler days of autumn, producing bountiful heads well into the season.

– Herbs: Some herbs, like parsley, cilantro, and chives, flourish in fall. They can even survive mild winters with the right protection.

Bob’s Garden Center offers a wide selection of seeds and starter plants specifically for fall gardening, so be sure to pick up your supplies early.

2. Use Season Extension Tools: Row Covers, Cold Frames, and Cloches

Season extension tools can help you protect your crops from early frost and extend the growing season by weeks or even months.

– Row covers:  Lightweight row covers are ideal for protecting crops from frost while allowing light and water to penetrate. These covers help maintain warmer temperatures under the fabric, giving your plants a head start.

– Cold frames: A cold frame acts like a mini greenhouse, trapping heat and protecting plants from harsh winds. You can create your own using old windows or plexiglass, or find pre-made cold frames at Bob’s Garden Center.

– Cloches: Bell-shaped cloches are placed over individual plants to keep them warm. They’re especially useful for protecting tender seedlings during the first frosts of the season.

With these tools, you can keep your fall crops growing strong, even as the temperature dips.

3. Maximize Sunlight and Microclimates

As the days get shorter, sunlight becomes a precious resource for your garden. Fall gardening success often depends on finding ways to maximize the light and warmth available to your plants.

– Location matters: Place your fall garden in the sunniest spot available. Areas with southern exposure will capture the most sunlight during the cooler months.

– Use reflective surfaces: Positioning white or light-colored objects, like walls or garden décor, near your plants can reflect sunlight and warmth back onto them.

– Create microclimates: Plant near heat-retaining structures like stone walls or fences to create warmer microclimates that can extend your growing season by a few crucial degrees.

4. Mulch for Temperature Control

Mulch isn’t just for winter protection; it’s also a valuable tool in fall gardening. Applying a layer of organic mulch around your plants helps regulate soil temperature, keeping it warmer on chilly nights. It also retains moisture and prevents weeds from competing with your crops for nutrients.

– When to mulch: Once your seedlings are established, spread a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around your plants. Use materials like straw, shredded leaves, or wood chips, all of which you can find at Bob’s Garden Center.

5. Plan for Successions and Staggered Planting

One of the best ways to extend your growing season is to practice succession planting. By staggering your planting dates, you can ensure a continuous harvest of fresh produce throughout the fall.

– Succession planting: Every few weeks, plant a new round of fast-growing crops like radishes, spinach, or lettuce. This way, as one crop is harvested, another is just coming into maturity.

– Consider interplanting: Plant fast-growing crops between slower-growing ones. For example, plant radishes between rows of broccoli. The radishes will mature and be harvested before the broccoli needs the space.

6. Protect Your Plants from Frost

Frost is the biggest challenge to extending your growing season, but with the right preparation, you can keep your garden going even after the first frost hits.

– Frost blankets: Keep a supply of frost blankets or row covers on hand to throw over your plants when frosty nights are forecasted. These covers can provide a few extra degrees of protection, keeping your plants alive and growing.

– Harvest before a hard frost: While some vegetables can withstand light frost, a hard freeze can damage even the hardiest crops. Keep an eye on the weather and harvest tender crops before a hard frost hits.

 

Visit Bob’s Garden Center for Your Fall Garden Needs

At Bob’s Garden Center, we have everything you need to extend your growing season into the fall. From cool-weather seeds and starter plants to season extension tools like row covers and cold frames, we’ve got you covered. Stop by today, and let our knowledgeable staff help you plan the perfect fall garden.

By implementing these strategies, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown produce well into autumn, making the most of South  Jersey’s extended growing season. Happy fall gardening!

Fall is a beautiful time in the garden, with cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage offering a peaceful end to the growing season. For gardeners looking to enjoy a colorful autumn landscape without a lot of upkeep, fall perennials are the perfect solution. These hardy plants come back year after year with minimal care, making them a must-have for any low-maintenance garden. At Bob’s Garden Center, we’ve curated a list of the best fall perennials to help you create a stunning, worry-free garden right here in Southern New Jersey.

1. Sedum (Stonecrop)

Sedum is a standout perennial for fall, offering clusters of pink, red, or white flowers that bloom well into the cooler months. Its thick, succulent-like leaves make it drought-tolerant, meaning it requires very little watering once established.

– Why it’s low-maintenance: Sedum thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and it’s highly resistant to pests and diseases. Simply plant it, give it occasional water, and let it do its thing.

– Varieties to consider: ‘Autumn Joy’ is a classic fall bloomer that’s perfect for borders, while groundcover varieties like ‘Dragon’s Blood’ create colorful, sprawling carpets.

2. Asters

Asters are a fall favorite, known for their daisy-like flowers that bloom in shades of purple, pink, and white. They attract pollinators like butterflies, making them a lovely addition to any fall garden.

– Why it’s low-maintenance:  Asters are tough plants that thrive in a variety of soils and can handle full sun to partial shade. They require very little watering and will come back each year with minimal effort.

– Varieties to consider: New England asters like ‘Purple Dome’ are particularly hardy and offer vibrant color late into the fall season.

3. Echinacea (Coneflower)

While often associated with summer, Echinacea can also bring beauty to your fall garden. Its striking cone-shaped flowers bloom from summer through fall, providing long-lasting color that requires little care.

– Why it’s low-maintenance: Echinacea is drought-tolerant and thrives in poor soil conditions, making it an easy-going addition to any garden. It also attracts bees and butterflies, which adds to its appeal.

– Varieties to consider: Try ‘Magnus’ for classic pink blooms or ‘White Swan’ for a striking white alternative.

4. Heuchera (Coral Bells)

Heuchera is a versatile perennial known for its colorful foliage that lasts throughout the year. In the fall, its leaves take on deeper hues, adding rich tones to your garden even as other plants begin to fade.

– Why it’s low-maintenance: Heuchera requires very little pruning or watering and does well in partial shade, making it perfect for low-maintenance gardeners. Plus, its evergreen nature means it adds interest to your garden year-round.

– Varieties to consider: Look for varieties like ‘Autumn Bride,’ which has soft green foliage and delicate white flowers, or ‘Caramel’ with its warm amber leaves.

5. Helenium (Sneezeweed)

Helenium produces bold, daisy-like flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red, making it a perfect choice for adding vibrant fall color to your garden.

– Why it’s low-maintenance: Helenium is hardy and thrives in full sun with well-drained soil. It’s resistant to pests and disease, and once established, it requires minimal watering.

– Varieties to consider: ‘Mardi Gras’ brings a mix of fiery colors, while ‘Moerheim Beauty’ offers deep, rich red blooms.

6. Coreopsis

Coreopsis is a long-blooming perennial that can extend its flowering season into the fall with cheerful yellow, pink, or red flowers. It’s a wonderful option for gardeners looking for bright, happy colors with little effort.

– Why it’s low-maintenance: Coreopsis is drought-tolerant and thrives in well-drained soil. It requires little more than deadheading to keep it looking tidy, and it’s incredibly tough once established.

– Varieties to consider: ‘Moonbeam’ is a reliable, pale yellow bloomer, while ‘Red Satin’ adds a bold splash of color.

7. Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan)

Rudbeckia is a staple in many gardens due to its cheery yellow petals and dark center. It begins blooming in late summer but continues well into the fall, making it a great choice for sustained autumn color.

– Why it’s low-maintenance: Once established, Rudbeckia is highly drought-resistant and requires little care beyond occasional deadheading. It can thrive in various soil types and is resistant to most pests.

– Varieties to consider: ‘Goldsturm’ is a classic and reliable variety for fall blooms, while ‘Indian Summer’ offers larger flowers for a dramatic effect.

8. Hellebores

Though typically thought of as a late winter or early spring bloomer, hellebores can add evergreen interest to your fall garden. Their leathery leaves and early bloom cycle make them a standout plant during the colder months.

– Why it’s low-maintenance: Hellebores thrive in partial shade and are highly resistant to deer and pests. Once planted, they require very little water or attention.

– Varieties to consider: ‘Winter Jewels’ or ‘Ivory Prince’ offer long-lasting flowers in beautiful shades of white, pink, and purple.

Visit Bob’s Garden Center for Your Low-Maintenance Fall Perennials

At Bob’s Garden Center, we offer a wide selection of perennials that are perfect for bringing your fall garden to life with minimal upkeep. Whether you’re looking for drought-tolerant blooms or hardy foliage, our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the best plants for your needs. Visit us in-store or browse our online images to find the perfect fall perennials for your garden!

By incorporating these low-maintenance perennials into your garden, you can enjoy stunning fall color year after year—without the hassle. Happy gardening!

As the vibrant colors of fall start to fade, it’s time to shift your gardening efforts toward preparing your beds for winter. For gardeners in Southern New Jersey, taking the right steps now can ensure that your garden thrives when spring arrives. At Bob’s Garden Center, we understand the local climate and soil conditions, so here’s your guide to mulching, covering, and protecting your garden beds this winter.

Mulching: Insulating and Nourishing Your Soil

Mulch acts as a natural insulator, helping to regulate soil temperature and prevent frost from penetrating too deeply into the ground. It also helps retain moisture, which can be critical during winter’s dry spells. Here’s how to apply mulch effectively:

– Choose the right mulch: In South Jersey, opt for organic mulches like shredded leaves, straw, or wood chips, which gradually decompose and improve soil quality.

– Apply at the right time: Wait until after the first frost to apply mulch. This ensures that the ground has cooled but not frozen, and pests are less likely to take shelter in the soil.

– Spread evenly: Aim for a 2-4 inch layer around perennials, shrubs, and trees. Be careful not to pile mulch directly against plant stems, which can encourage rot.  

Mulching not only protects your plants but also adds nutrients back into the soil as it breaks down, ensuring healthier growth next spring.

Covering: Safeguarding Your Plants from Frost

Winter in Southern New Jersey can bring fluctuating temperatures and occasional frost, so covering your plants is crucial. Frost and freezing winds can damage exposed roots, delicate perennials, and tender seedlings.

– Use frost blankets or burlap: These materials provide a breathable cover that shields plants from harsh winds and freezing temperatures while allowing moisture to escape. Bob’s Garden Center carries a variety of frost protection blankets for different garden sizes.

– For vegetable gardens: If you’re growing fall crops like lettuce, spinach, or kale, consider using row covers or cloches to protect your plants from early winter frosts.

– Protecting perennials: For sensitive perennials, mound soil or mulch around the base of the plant before covering them with burlap to provide an extra layer of protection.

By covering your garden beds, you’re ensuring that your plants survive even the harshest winter weather.

Protecting: Guarding Against Pests and Harsh Conditions

Winter isn’t just hard on your plants—it can also bring new challenges from pests and unpredictable weather. Here’s how to protect your garden from these threats:

– Remove dead plant matter: Insects and fungal spores often overwinter in decaying plant material. Clean up your garden by removing dead leaves, stems, and other debris that can harbor pests. At Bob’s Garden Center, we have a range of tools and products to help you easily clear your beds.

– Set up windbreaks: If your garden is in an open, windy area, consider creating windbreaks with wooden stakes and burlap to prevent damage from strong winter winds.

– Water your garden before winter hits: While the temperatures may drop, it’s important to give your plants a good drink before the ground freezes. This helps them build up moisture reserves for the dormant season ahead.

Bonus Tip: Planting Winter-Ready Bulbs

Winter is also the perfect time to plant hardy bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and crocuses. These bulbs will lie dormant through the winter and burst into color when spring arrives. Make sure to plant bulbs in well-drained soil and cover them with mulch for added protection.

Visit Bob’s Garden Center for All Your Winter Gardening Needs

At Bob’s Garden Center, we have everything you need to prepare your garden beds for winter. From high-quality mulch to frost blankets, we’re here to help your garden thrive through every season. Visit us today or explore our selection online to get started on your winter garden prep!

By taking the time to mulch, cover, and protect your garden beds now, you’ll set yourself up for a flourishing, vibrant garden when spring returns. Happy gardening!

 

Starting seedlings indoors has many benefits for gardeners and can increase the productivity and variety of your garden. It’s not difficult, but does take some special considerations to be sure the seedlings can thrive both indoors and when they are transplanted.

Why Start Seeds Indoors?

Starting seeds indoors is a great idea for gardeners to…

• Satisfy winter gardening urges when outdoor gardens are not available.
• Extend the growing season in northern areas.
• Add garden variety by enjoying produce that needs more growing time.
• Enjoy an earlier harvest with staggered seedling plantings.
• Save money by buying seeds rather than plants.
• Choose different plants than a local nursery may provide by buying seeds online.

 

With so many benefits, there’s no reason to not try starting seeds indoors and giving your garden a great kick start when the ground thaws in the spring.

Tips for Starting Seedlings Indoors

Starting seeds takes a bit of work to be sure the young plants are healthy and able to be transplanted into the garden. To take the best care of your seeds…

• Choose fresh seeds from a reputable source, and never use seeds that are more than 1-2 years old, or they may not be healthy enough for strong germination.
• Plant seeds in small, individual containers no more than 2-3 inches deep. Divided planting trays are ideal, or you can use egg cartons, paper cups or similar containers.
• Use a sterile growing medium, such as peat, vermiculite or another seed starter that is porous to encourage root growth and lacks weed seeds or fungus contamination.
• Start seeds according to their growth and harvest instructions, planning for transplant after all local risk of frost has passed and the ground has warmed sufficiently.
• Mark seed trays or containers with the types of seeds in each to make care easier, and group seeds with similar needs together.
• Position seed trays in an area with sufficient light and consistent temperature away from vents or drafts, but allowing enough room for healthy plants as the seeds grow.
• Use supplemental lights to prevent spindly or leggy seedlings; grow lights will work, as will cool fluorescent lights, and they should be kept 2-4 inches from the plants.
• Consider a heating mat under the seed trays to keep soil warm and encourage better root growth for healthy seedlings.
• Water seedlings from below and keep them damp but not soggy, gently using a mister on the plants if necessary.
• Do not fertilize seeds until the first true leaves appear, then fertilize once a week to provide adequate nutrition for healthy growth.

 

Ready for Transplanting

When seedlings are ready to be added to the garden, they must be hardened off so they can survive the transition to outdoor conditions. Every day, move the seed trays outdoors to a sheltered location, gradually increasing the time they spend outdoors from just an hour to most of the day. After 1-2 weeks of this process, the seedlings will be hardy enough to be transplanted, and the garden will thrive!

Are you ready to try starting seeds indoors? Stop in and see us for all the best seeds, supplies and tips for successful plants!

Chances are, if you haven’t started planting already, you’re at least thinking about getting your hands dirty. We’ve assembled a few tips for you to consider before coming in and picking up your supplies.

Plan first and shop later

• When thinking of what you’d like to grow, be sure to choose plants that grow best in your region.
• Take a stroll in the area where you’d like to start and make sure it provides the necessary space and sunlight to suit your needs.
• A word about size: consider the quantity that you need to grow. You don’t want your garden to be too large; otherwise your hobby may quickly turn into a chore.

Layout choices

• Rows are best used for tall plants such as corn, but most vegetables can be grown in this manner.
• Hills are used when seeds are grouped in clusters. This is suited for wider, outward growing plants such as pumpkins and other varieties of squash.
• Wide beds are used for a number of vegetables and are usually about 3 feet wide. The seeds can simply be broadcasted over the bed rather than in an even line. Lettuce, carrots, spinach are well suited in this layout.
• If you can’t go wider, go upwards! In narrow areas, use support structures to vertically grow such things as peas, pole beans, squash and even melons. You’ll have more room on the ground for your potatoes, onions, and more!

 

Weeds and pests
Should your choice be organic or not, there are a lot of options here. Consider how much time you have to spend in your garden before deciding which is best for you.

• There are chemical remedies for weed control, or greener options such as simple mulch, black plastic and old fashioned weeding.
• Pest can be controlled with chemicals as well, though there are organic solutions for this too. The most popular organic choice is diatomaceous earth, which consists mostly of fossilized diatoms (a type of hard-shelled algae that acts as an irritant to insects). Diatoms scratch into the insects’ exoskeletons and cause them to dehydrate and die.
• Regardless of how you choose to control weeds and pests, a good rule of thumb is to keep a close eye on your crops. Get to know them and visit them daily if possible. A vigilant eye can do wonders in preventing problems before they get out of hand.

 

Plants have a schedule too, you know
Your garden can’t be planted in one day. Some varieties will grow better earlier in the season and others will require warmer weather. Plan ahead and you can maximize the best use of your space. You may be able to harvest a couple crops from the same section throughout the growing season.

Now that you’re ready to get started, why not stop in and we’ll be happy to assist you with all of your gardening needs. If you still aren’t convinced you’d like to get your hands dirty, we’ve got gardening gloves too!

Growing perennial flowers and vegetables in your garden is a great way to add beauty and variety to your outdoor space while also providing a consistent source of fresh produce year after year. Perennials are plants that live for three or more years, and they can add structure and stability to your garden. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know to grow perennial flowers and vegetables in your garden.

 

Perennial Flowers

Perennial flowers are a popular choice for gardeners because they provide a beautiful display year after year without having to replant. Here are some popular perennial flowers that you can grow in your garden:

• Daylilies: Daylilies are a classic perennial flower that come in a wide range of colors, from yellow to orange to pink. They are also easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of growing conditions.
• Coneflowers: Coneflowers are a hardy perennial flower that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. They come in a range of colors, from pink to purple to white.
• Peonies: Peonies are a beautiful and fragrant perennial flower that come in a variety of colors, from pink to white to red. They can take a few years to establish, but once they do, they will bloom reliably each year.
• Irises: Irises are a beautiful and easy-to-grow perennial flower that come in a variety of colors, from purple to yellow to white. They also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

 

Perennial Vegetables

Perennial vegetables are plants that will produce for several years without needing to be replanted each season. They are a great choice for gardeners who want a low-maintenance source of fresh produce. Here are some popular perennial vegetables that you can grow in your garden:

• Asparagus: Asparagus is a delicious and nutrient-rich perennial vegetable that can produce for up to 20 years. It takes a few years to establish, but once it does, you can enjoy fresh asparagus each spring.
• Rhubarb: Rhubarb is a tart and tangy perennial vegetable that can be used in a variety of desserts and savory dishes. It can produce for up to 10 years and requires little maintenance.
• Artichokes: Artichokes are a delicious and unique perennial vegetable that can be grown in warmer climates. They can produce for up to 5 years and require well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight.
• Chives: Chives are a flavorful herb that can be used in a variety of dishes. They are also a perennial vegetable that can produce for many years.
• Raspberries: Raspberries are a delicious and nutrient-rich fruit that can be grown as a perennial vegetable. They require a trellis or support system and can produce for up to 20 years.

 

In conclusion, growing perennial flowers and vegetables in your garden is a great way to add beauty and flavor to your outdoor space. By choosing the right plants for your growing conditions and caring for them properly, you can enjoy a beautiful and bountiful garden for years to come. So go ahead and start planning your perennial garden today!