The South’s Second Spring

South Alabama has a climate that shows a difference in most seasons, but is similar in two, spring and fall. With cooler temps and a breeze, fall gardening yields vegetables that are delicious with an evening meal.

Every Saturday in many rural areas, you will find farmers ’ markets teeming with local farmers and their goods. From fall flowers to veges, and ladies with their sweet delights, people flock to buy what they love, while the season lasts.

With the beach just minutes away, the gardens give a feel of the country while enjoying the beauty of the beach. It is true that weather watching is a thing in the deep Alabama south due to Hurricane season, but we look with a hope and a prayer and keep planting. Here is a link to a site you will enjoy, while you learn about the basics of fall gardening.

https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/lawn-garden/basics-of-fall-vegetable-gardening/

Another important aspect of gardening in the south is mulching. Mulching is important for gardening in South Alabama because it conserves soil moisture, regulates soil temperature, and protects against erosion from heavy rains. It also suppresses weeds, reduces the risk of damage from lawn equipment, and, for organic mulches, enriches the soil with nutrients as it decomposes. The coastal climate's heavy rains and strong winds make these benefits especially critical for maintaining a healthy garden. 

I live in a local community where gardening finds its way into backyards. Coming home from a day’s work and putting in more work in the dirt yields fruitful results and is medicine to the soul. Enjoy these pictures from friends who turned their backyard into a garden haven!

You can do it too! It is not too late to learn, clear a space, buy some dirt and seeds, and give it a try. If you need help digging, give our state-of-the-art digging bit a try at this website. www.themaxbit.com

Until next time, happy digging!

Dr. Michele