As temperatures begin to cool, gardeners are adjusting their planting and care routines to keep their gardens healthy throughout the fall season.
The Georgia Southern Botanical Garden hosted a fall plant sale in Statesboro, offering local gardeners a variety of edible and decorative plants suited for the changing weather.
Pansies and violas are popular choices during the fall because they can thrive as temperatures drop in Georgia. These flowers also bring color to gardens during a season when many other plants begin to fade.
Bryan Babot, a full-time gardener at the botanical garden, said seasonal changes bring different needs and challenges for those caring for plants.
“Different needs and areas of concern completely change with the changing of the seasons,” Babot said.
Gardeners may need to adjust how much water their plants receive as the weather cools. Maintaining proper soil moisture remains important because fall conditions can still dry out the soil. Shorter days also mean fewer hours of sunlight, making it important to choose plants that can grow with less direct light.
Kale and other leafy greens are popular additions to fall gardens because they can continue growing in cooler temperatures. Some plants also provide environmental benefits by offering shelter and protection for wildlife.
Fig trees were among the plants that attracted attention at the sale. During the fall, certain varieties of figs can produce a second crop, giving gardeners another opportunity to harvest fruit before winter.
Dr. Jeff Riley of Sanford Hall said he enjoys the unique challenges that come with gardening during the fall season.
Although many plants reach the end of their growing cycle as temperatures drop, others can flourish with the right care. Gardeners can continue growing colorful flowers, leafy greens and other plants well beyond the summer months.
