Embracing Fall: Seasonal Changes at Birdhouse.farm
Mid-August in Kansas brings the peak of summer heat, with long, sun-soaked days and warm, balmy nights. Despite the intense temperatures, our gardens are thriving, thanks to the bountiful rains we've enjoyed this summer. The ample rainfall has kept the soil moist and the plants lush, creating an ideal environment for growth. As we transition toward the cooler days of fall, this is a critical time to nurture our gardens, prepare for the changing seasons, and make the most of the final burst of summer vitality. The weather may be hot, but with the rains on our side, it's also the perfect moment to plan and plant for a bountiful autumn ahead.
Here’s a glimpse into what we’re up to in our Kansas gardens this season:
1. Planting Cool-Weather Crops: Fall is perfect for planting cool-weather crops like kale, spinach, and lettuce. These hardy greens thrive in the cooler temperatures, and we’re making the most of the extended growing season. We’re also planting garlic and onions, which will overwinter and be ready for harvest next spring.
2. Prepping the Soil for Spring: Healthy soil is the foundation of any thriving garden, and fall is an ideal time for soil preparation. We’re adding organic matter like compost and mulch to enrich the soil, improve its structure, and encourage beneficial organisms. This helps ensure that our spring planting season will start with nutrient-rich, well-drained soil.
3. Planting Trees and Shrubs: Fall is a great time for planting trees and shrubs because the cooler temperatures reduce stress on the plants, and the soil is still warm enough for roots to establish before winter. At birdhouse.farm, we’re adding native species to our landscape to provide habitat and food for local wildlife.
4. Harvesting Late-Season Crops: Our gardens are still producing an abundance of late-season crops like pumpkins, squash, and tomatoes. We’re busy harvesting these hearty vegetables, storing some for winter, and enjoying fresh produce in our meals.
5. Saving Seeds: Seed saving is an essential practice at Birdhouse.farm. We’re carefully collecting seeds from our favorites, ensuring we’ll have a diverse selection to plant next year. This helps preserve plant diversity and saves money on buying seeds each season. Also, seeds harvested from our area are naturally adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, making them stronger and more resilient for successful growth in the next year’s garden.
6. Cleaning Up and Composting: As we clear out the remains of our summer gardens, we’re adding plant material to our compost piles. This organic matter will break down over the winter, providing us with rich compost to use in the spring. We’re also cleaning and storing garden tools, readying them for the next growing season.
7. Planning for Next Year: Fall is a time for reflection and planning. We’re taking note of what worked well in our gardens this year and what could be improved. Whether it’s rotating crops, trying new varieties, or expanding our garden space, we’re laying the groundwork for a successful year ahead.
8. Creating Wildlife Habitats: To support local wildlife during the colder months, we’re leaving some garden areas undisturbed, allowing seed heads and plant debris to provide food and shelter for birds and insects. We’re also maintaining our pollinator gardens, ensuring that bees and butterflies have a safe haven as they prepare for winter.
9. Guests at Birdhouse.farm: Alongside our gardening efforts, we’re prepping for fall guests. Our B&B is available to overnight guests and we’re preparing for fall camping, ensuring that our outdoor spaces are cozy and welcoming. Whether it's a relaxing stay in the B&B or a fun camping trip, we're ready to embrace the fall and share its wonders with everyone who visits.
10. Enjoying the Beauty of Fall: Finally, we’re taking time to enjoy the beauty of fall in Kansas. The changing leaves, the crisp air, and the golden light make this a magical time in the garden. Whether it’s sipping warm cider as we watch the sunset or gathering around a bonfire with friends, we’re embracing the season in all its glory.
Fall at Birdhouse.farm is a busy, beautiful time. As we prepare for the coming winter and the year ahead, we’re reminded of the cycles of nature and the importance of nurturing the land that sustains us. We hope you find inspiration in our fall gardening activities and that your own garden brings you joy and abundance this season.