Fall Crops Delaware

Fall Growing in

THE BEST CROPS FOR a

Growing Peas in the Fall:

Timing: Plant peas in Delaware as soon as the soil can be worked in early spring (4-6 weeks before the last frost date). You can also plant a second crop in late summer for a fall harvest.
Location: Choose a sunny to lightly shaded spot with well-draining soil enriched with compost.
Planting: Plant pea seeds 1-2 inches deep and 1-2 inches apart in rows spaced 2-3 feet apart. Provide support like trellises, stakes, or pea fences.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist during flowering and pod development, but avoid waterlogged conditions.
Fertilization: Peas generally don't require heavy fertilization. If needed, apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time.
Mulching: Apply a thin layer of mulch around the base of the plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Planting Time: Lettuce grows best in cooler temperatures. Plant it in early spring or late summer.
Location: Find a spot with partial sunlight, especially during hot summers, as lettuce prefers cooler conditions.
Soil Preparation: Ensure well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Incorporate compost for improved soil fertility.
Sowing Seeds: Plant lettuce seeds about 1/4 inch deep and space them according to the variety's recommendations.
Watering: Maintain consistent soil moisture without waterlogging. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses are good options.
Thinning: Thin seedlings as they grow to provide proper spacing and enjoy baby lettuce greens from the thinnings.
Fertilization: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer according to the package instructions.

Soil Preparation: Choose well-draining soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.8. Remove clumps and stones for smooth root growth.
Sowing Time: Plant carrot seeds outdoors as long as the soil can be worked in early spring or late summer for a fall crop.
Seed Depth and Spacing: Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and thin to 2-3 inches apart once they sprout.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist during germination and water deeply but less frequently after that to encourage deep root growth.
Mulching: Mulch around carrot plants to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and prevent weeds.
Fertilization: Carrots usually require light fertilization; apply a balanced fertilizer at planting.

Planting Time: Kale is a cool-season crop; plant in early spring or late summer.
Location: Choose a spot with full to partial sunlight.
Soil Preparation: Kale thrives in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. Incorporate compost for soil enrichment.
Planting Seeds: Sow kale seeds about 1/2 inch deep, starting indoors a few weeks before the last frost or directly outdoors.
Spacing: Space seeds or seedlings 12-18 inches apart.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, particularly during dry spells. Water at the base to prevent leaf wetting.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer before planting and a nitrogen-rich one a few weeks later. Follow package instructions.
Mulching: Apply mulch to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and prevent weeds.