It is almost Labor Day. Back in Ontario, everybody is busy picking and preserving peaches. In the back of their minds, they know they could have their first frost at the end of the month (or even before). So what are we doing here in Texas? Planting a fall garden!

It may be hard to believe, but we can still plant beans and squash by seed if done right away. Starts of broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and Brussels sprouts can be planted – as long as we shade them from the hot sun. We can also start planting by seed, beets, lettuces, spinach, carrots, radishes, English peas, Swiss chard and turnips. Lightly sprinkle the seeds twice daily, if possible, until they have germinated. Don’t let our high heat dry them out.

There have been a few subtle signs that maybe our weather is breaking. The last few mornings have been delightful – the couple of mornings in the 60′s were heavenly. The hummingbirds are busier than ever and the monarchs are steadily increasing in numbers. So, rest assured, it will not always be in the 90′s and 100′s – cooler days will come!