Wondering what to plant as summer wanes? Don't put away those seed packets just yet! September offers the perfect conditions for establishing winter-hardy crops that will provide fresh harvests throughout the coldest months.

This episode explores the often-overlooked opportunities of September sowing, focusing on crops that thrive when planted now. While the list may be shorter than spring and summer guides, these strategic plantings deliver exceptional value. Discover which lettuce varieties withstand winter conditions, why you can sow more generously now than in summer months, and how oriental greens establish beautifully in cooling temperatures. We cover specific varieties like Arctic King, Winter Density, and Marvel of Four Seasons lettuce that are particularly suited to this transitional time.

Beyond salads, we explore herbs that establish quickly before winter's darkness slows growth, winter-hardy spring onions that provide continuous harvests, and how chard becomes a garden superstar during the colder months. For polytunnel and greenhouse growers, we reveal additional possibilities including early brassicas for spring harvests and autumn onion sets that will deliver your earliest allium crop next year.

The episode also addresses crucial seasonal maintenance as autumn rains return after summer drought. Learn why trees may be dropping leaves earlier than expected, how to prevent fruit rot in increasing humidity, and the importance of greenhouse cleanliness as insects seek winter shelter. We also emphasize the value of maintaining soil biology even in unused growing spaces to ensure a healthy start next spring.

As this marks our final sowing guide of the season, we're transitioning to a community perennial grow-along project in upcoming episodes. Join us as we demonstrate how easily you can grow beautiful perennial flowers from seed for next year's garden. Subscribe now, share your gardening journey with us on social media, and discover how September planting extends your growing season well into winter!

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Until next week
Happy gardening
John