Fall Growing in
RHODE ISLAND
THE BEST CROPS FOR a
Successful Fall Harvest
Boost Your Garden's Productivity with These Ideal Fall Crops for Rhode Island's Climate!
Kohlrabi
How To Grow:
Kohlrabi is a unique and tasty vegetable that can thrive in Rhode Island. Follow these steps to cultivate kohlrabi:
1. Sowing Kohlrabi:
Directly sow kohlrabi seeds in early spring or late summer. Plant seeds about ½ inch deep and 4 to 6 inches apart.
2. Sun and Soil:
Provide full sun to promote healthy growth. Kohlrabi prefers well-draining soil enriched with organic matter.
3. Watering:
Keep the soil consistently moist, particularly during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to rot.
4. Thinning Seedlings:
Once the seedlings have a few true leaves, thin them to provide about 8 to 12 inches of spacing between plants.
5. Fertilization:
Incorporate compost or a balanced fertilizer into the soil before planting. Kohlrabi benefits from additional fertilization during its growth.
6. Pest and Disease Management:
Watch for pests like cabbage worms and aphids. Use floating row covers or introduce natural predators. Proper spacing and hygiene help prevent diseases.
7. Harvesting:
Harvest kohlrabi when the swollen stem reaches the size of a tennis ball. Use a sharp knife to cut the stem just above the soil line.
8. Succession Planting:
Sow kohlrabi seeds in successive plantings every few weeks to ensure a continuous harvest.
Radish
How To Grow: Growing Radishes in Rhode Island
Radishes are a quick and satisfying crop for Rhode Island gardeners. Here's how to grow them successfully:
1. Sowing Radishes:
Directly sow radish seeds in early spring or late summer. Plant seeds about ½ inch deep and 1 to 2 inches apart.
2. Sun and Soil:
Provide full sun to encourage rapid growth. Radishes thrive in well-draining soil.
3. Watering:
Keep the soil consistently moist, particularly during germination. Once established, water evenly to prevent cracking.
4. Thinning Seedlings:
Thin radish seedlings to ensure about 2 to 3 inches of spacing between plants. Thin, young radishes can be eaten as microgreens.
5. Fertilization:
Incorporate compost or a balanced fertilizer into the soil before planting. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to lush foliage and small roots.
6. Pest and Disease Management:
Radishes are generally less prone to pests and diseases. However, keep an eye out for cabbage worms and flea beetles.
7. Harvesting:
Harvest radishes when they reach the desired size, usually around 3 to 4 weeks after planting. Gently pull them out of the soil.
8. Succession Planting:
Sow radish seeds in successive batches every 1 to 2 weeks for a continuous harvest.
Spinach
How To Grow:
Spinach is a nutrient-rich leafy green that thrives in Rhode Island's climate. Here's how to grow it successfully:
1. Sowing Spinach:
Directly sow spinach seeds in early spring or late summer. Plant seeds about ½ inch deep and 2 to 4 inches apart.
2. Sun and Soil:
Provide partial to full sun and well-draining soil. Spinach prefers cooler temperatures, making it suitable for spring and fall planting.
3. Watering:
Keep the soil consistently moist, particularly during dry periods. Mulching helps retain moisture and prevents weeds.
4. Thinning Seedlings:
Once the seedlings emerge, thin them to provide about 6 to 8 inches of spacing between plants.
5. Fertilization:
Incorporate compost or a balanced fertilizer into the soil before planting. Side-dress with compost during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
6. Pest and Disease Management:
Watch for pests like aphids and leafminers. Handpick pests or use insecticidal soap. Proper spacing and good air circulation help prevent diseases.
7. Harvesting:
Harvest spinach leaves when they are large enough to use, usually around 6 to 8 inches long. You can harvest individual leaves or cut entire plants.
8. Succession Planting:
Sow spinach seeds in successive batches to extend the harvest window.
