Middle South
August, 2004
Regional Report
Sow Marigolds
If your flower beds are getting thin in places, sow seeds of dwarf French marigolds or another fast-growing annual. The seeds usually sprout quickly, and the plants come into bloom in eight to ten weeks.
Fertilize Berries
Blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries may look like they're growing quietly, but they're already laying down the cells that will be next year's flowers. Feed berries with an organic or timed-release fertilizer to help energize this important process.
Mow Creatively
If you tend to mow your grass in the same direction over and over, do it differently. Mow in diagonal lines for a change, which alters the pattern of the clippings left behind. This will mean more even fertility for your lawn, and a reduced risk of thatch buildup along mowing lines.
Compost Weeds
If you have a pile where you've been throwing weeds and trimmings all summer, turn it into a proper compost heap. Mix in some fresh grass clippings and a 5-pound bag of the cheapest dog food you can find. Turn daily for a week to get it steaming hot.
Start Brassicas Indoors
Time to get started with the slowest-growing of fall crops, the brassicas. Start seeds of cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, and kale indoors under lights, and set them out as soon as they have five leaves.
