5 Helpful Tips! To Create an Edible Fall Garden

Fall is an ideal time to start an edible garden in Southern California, taking advantage of the region’s mild climate to grow a various fruits, vegetables, and herbs. By planting in the fall, you allow plants to establish strong, deep roots that help retain moisture when the heat of summer arrives. Many fall-planted vegetables, like Swiss chard, carrots, and herbs, require less water and can be harvested throughout the cooler months. Crops like garlic and onions can be planted in the fall, established using winter rains, and ready to eat in late spring, extending your food supply.

To maximize your garden’s productivity and water efficiency, consider these five (5) strategies:

  1. Fresh Flavors at Your Fingertips: Start your edible garden in your kitchen window with herbs that taste and smell great. Choose low-water-use herbs that complement your cooking, like oregano, basil, or sage, for your Italian nights, or rosemary, thyme, and oregano to liven up your Mediterranean dishes. For extra water savings, water your herbs with leftover cooking water once it’s cooled.
  2. Small Space, Big Harvest: Containers are an excellent way to grow fruits and vegetables in a small space. Try planting root vegetables like carrots, radishes, or potatoes this fall. Whether growing food in containers or in the ground, ensure water gets directly to the plant root and is not wasted. Go one step further and participate in our Spray-to-Drip Rebate Program.
  3. Orchard to Patio: Trees are crucial in reducing evaporation and enhancing moisture retention for your other plants. If you have a spacious yard, plant a fruit tree like avocado, pomegranate, or citrus. If space is limited, dwarf fruit trees like lime, peach, or apple are perfect for patios or balconies. Check out the many other benefits of trees!
  4. Beauty Meets Bounty: Edible ground covers like strawberries, creeping thyme, or oregano are a win-win for your garden. Cover crops help save water by locking in surface moisture and reducing evaporation while also providing decoration and functionality. Receive a rebate for installing a smart sprinkler timer or water-efficient sprinkler nozzles for additional year-round savings.
  5. Secrets to a Thriving Garden: Location, location, location! Place plants where they get the right amount of sunlight without overexposure to reduce watering needs. Consider composting to improve soil quality and increase water retention. Mulch is also a great alternative to lock in moisture, reduce evaporation, and prevent weeds. These simple steps will help your garden thrive while saving water all season.

Implementing these water-smart tips will allow you to enjoy a bountiful and sustainable edible garden throughout the fall and beyond. For more information and resources on creating a water-efficient garden, visit mwdoc.com/ociswatersmart.