According to Steven Patrick, an agriculture and natural resources agent with the Habersham County Extension Office in Clarkesville, “People have had a lot more time in their yards during the coronavirus and many are focused on food production.” That focus has led to a marked increase in requests for information and site visits from the Extension Office. Patrick says, “It’s been fun for me to have all of these folks realize we’re here. We’ve always been here to provide unbiased, research-based information to save residents time and money.”
Although the blazing temperatures show no sign of easing off, it’s not too early to begin thinking about what to do next in your garden. Patrick suggests that this is the time to prepare for cool season annuals or fescue planting. Planting all vegetables and perennials is also just on the horizon. Patrick also says that it is almost time to begin planting trees and shrubs.
Northeast Georgia is in zone 7 for planting. Annuals that do well in the fall include pansies and ornamental kale, although deer love the pansies for snacks.
In the southern section of zone 7, dianthus and alyssum do well.
According to Urban Farmer, beets, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, kale, lettuce, peas, and spinach planted during August/September will produce vegetables until late October or even early November. Beans, squash, and tomatoes planted in the spring and summer can continue to produce into October.
The Covid-19 quarantine has allowed more people to spent time in their yards and their gardens. The Extension Office has been busy, running soil, water, litter, and plant samples for residents and making home visits for clients as well. The Extension Office has also shifted their programming online. Patrick and his staff hope that this trend in home gardening will continue after COVID-19 has past. As he says, “The Extension Office is always here to serve.”
For more information about online programming or to request assistance, go to the Extension Office website.
