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Seasonal Garden Prep: Your Late Summer to Fall Transition Guide

Seasonal Garden Prep: Your Late Summer to Fall Transition Guide

Late summer is the perfect time to get your garden ready for the changing season. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a burst of fall color or prepare your beds for winter rest, the steps you take now will make a big difference in plant health and productivity. By focusing on soil care, maintenance, and strategic planting, you’ll set your garden up for a smooth seasonal transition.

Start with a Soil Check-Up

Healthy soil is the foundation of every thriving garden. Late summer is an ideal time to test soil pH and nutrient levels, making it easier to adjust before the next planting season. Add organic matter like compost to improve structure and feed beneficial microbes. For an extra boost, use Biogrowth Catalyst™ or Enyzmplus Liquid Organic Fertilizer to enhance nutrient absorption and promote strong root systems. For more on nurturing healthy soil, check out our blog "How to Improve Soil Health Naturally: Top 7 Organic Methods for Thriving Plants.

Mulch to Protect and Nourish

A fresh layer of organic mulch will regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and suppress weeds well into fall. Mulch also breaks down over time, adding valuable organic matter to your soil. Choose straw, shredded leaves, or bark chips, and keep mulch a few inches away from plant stems to prevent rot. We’ve covered more on the benefits of mulching in our post "The Magic of Mulching: How to Improve Soil Health and Conserve Water Naturally.” 

Deadhead, Prune and Clean Up

Removing spent flowers (deadheading) encourages continued blooming, especially for perennials. Light pruning of shrubs and vines can help improve airflow and shape plants before dormancy. Take this opportunity to remove diseased or damaged foliage to reduce pest and fungal problems later. Keep your tools clean and sharp to avoid spreading pathogens between plants.

Compost for Next Season’s Gold

Your compost pile works year-round, but late summer clean-up offers a golden opportunity to add fresh material. Incorporate plant trimmings, fallen leaves, and kitchen scraps, layering greens and browns for a balanced mix. Turn the pile regularly for faster decomposition. Well-finished compost applied in early fall will have time to integrate into the soil before spring planting.

Stay Ahead of Pests

Even as temperatures drop, pests can still damage your garden. Inspect plants regularly and act quickly at the first sign of trouble. Introduce beneficial insects, plant pest-repelling herbs, or use organic solutions like neem oil or insecticidal soap. To help plants naturally resist stress and recover from minor pest damage, apply Biogrowth Vivid for flowers and lawns or Biogrowth Thrive for edibles.

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