When you plant a garden in the fall, you don’t have to only plant trees, shrubs and bulbs, but you can also plant a garden that will be full of vegetables that you can use year round.

Planting a fall and winter garden will take some time and you will also need to know what types of vegetables can survive in the climate you live in. If you live in a harsh winter climate, you may not be able to plant as many vegetables in your garden as you would if you lived in a mild weather climate. Do the research and find the vegetables and plants that will survive during the weather months and the freezing temperature.

• Most vegetables will need about 60 days to mature and grow. Plant the desired vegetables that you want 60 days before you expect the weather to freeze or create a frost. After you plant your fall vegetables and frost and freezing temperatures come early, you can purchase a greenhouse box to place over your vegetables or you can also place a tarp over them. Keep your vegetables warm enough to withstand the fall weather and the colder temperatures.

• Some of the winter vegetables that can do well are carrots and parsnips. The snow and frost that is on them will create a good source of water and will allow the vegetables to create a better taste. To receive fall vegetables plant direct seed carrots, peas, beets, spinach and lettuce in the first part of August. The cooler nights will allow the vegetables to receive a good source of water and will also help the vegetable obtain the crisp flavor that you desire.

• The soil that you plant your vegetables in is very important. Without good soil, your vegetables will not receive the nutrients and organisms that rich soil has located within it. Also plant your fall and winter vegetables where you had your spring and summer vegetables planted. The soil already has the nutrients that you have added and has a good source of earthworms that help your vegetables grow. As you rotate out the vegetables each season, the soil will become richer and will help produce stronger and better tasting vegetables. Add compost and compost tea to your soil when you plant new vegetables. The organisms that are located in the compost and compost tea will allow the vegetables to grow quicker.

The Lawhead Team would like to share some tips to preparing your home for fall and winter.

Fall is just around the corner and soon it will be time to start that fire in the fireplace and decorate for the holidays.

Here are 5 home maintenance tips to prepare for the fall months:

1. Check for leaks – Cold air can get in around doors and windows during the fall. Use a flashlight to check for door and window drafts. If you notice a leak you should add weather stripping to doors and use caulking on windows. This is also a good idea to do during the summer to keep cooling costs down.
2. Check smoke detectors – Replace your batteries every time fall and spring come around. So many fires are caused by Christmas trees so it is extremely important to check your smoke detectors to make sure they are working properly and can warn you in the event of an emergency.
3. Check your heating system – Just as you want to do before summer starts for your AC unit, check your heater to make sure it is working before the colder months of the fall and winter set in.
4. Check your watering schedule – As temperatures begin to cool, plants need less water. Adjust your watering schedule for lawns, borders, and containers. Pay close attention to containers as they tend to become waterlogged.
5. Check to make sure your fireplace is ready for use – Make sure your fireplace is free of ashes and your chimney is cleaned out before having your first fire. You may also want to ensure your flu is open before lighting a fire if you closed it up over the warmer months. Nothing says Fall like a cozy fire in the fireplace.