Late Summer Veggie Garden

Nothing tastes as good as a vegetable grown in your own garden. Whether you grow in the backyard or in pots on a balcony, as long as you have soil and seed you can enjoy the flavor of your own freshly grown vegetables. If you are looking to plant, but afraid it’s too late to start now, here are a few vegetables to try that can thrive later in the summer:

Carrots that are garden grown are full of flavor and texture. Sow seeds directly into the garden or containers.

Cauliflower can be planted in late August or early September. It’s a cool season crop that loves a lot of sun to grow and is particularly delicious when roasted.

Broccoli thrives in cool weather so planting in mid to late August is usually a safe bet.

Spinach likes to grow in full sun to light shade. Sauteed with garlic and olive oil, enjoyed in salads or in a smoothie, it is packed with nutrients and flavor.

Radishes can add a special crunch to salads with a crisp texture and peppery flavor. Grow them alongside your carrots as both root vegetables will grow in similar conditions.

Whether you have been gardening all summer or not at all, why not try planting at least one of these vegetables now to yield a special treat in the fall? Don’t get discouraged if you don’t think you have a green thumb or if the plants don’t make it to harvest. Keep trying and learn the joy of planting a seed and watching it grow. 

“Gardening adds years to your life and life to your years.”   Unknown