Jo Arnell proves that, with a little planning, there’s still plenty to grow in the veg garden as colder months approach.

There might be gaps appearing on the plot this month. I’m hoping it means you’ve been able to celebrate all that hard work and harvest some produce, but it could well be that disaster has struck. Disasters come in many forms: life events, pests – even the weather can cause crops to fail. You may not have got round to growing anything yet (time flies when you intend to grow your own). Take heart and gather yourself. There are still plenty of vegetables that you can sow now that will mature in just a few weeks, or for a harvest later in the autumn and winter. It may be too late to sow plants that take a long time to grow, like leeks, parsnips, purple sprouting broccoli, but there is definitely still time.

Keep an eye on the nutritional needs of any new plants and add more compost as needed. Some of the early crops may have depleted key soil nutrients, which may need to be replaced before the next round of growing starts.

Keep an eye on the nutritional needs of any new plants and add more compost as needed. Some of the early crops may have depleted key soil nutrients, which may need to be replaced before the next round of growing starts

Kale and cabbages growing side by side. Grow leafy plants in semi-shade, or keep them well watered, as they may bolt.

Kale and cabbages growing side by side. Grow leafy plants in semi-shade, or keep them well watered, as they may bolt

Jo Arnell’s garden at Hornbrook Manor

Jo Arnell’s garden at Hornbrook Manor

Rows of lettuces make for a pretty combination of colours

Rows of lettuces make for a pretty combination of colours

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