Specific Tasks for August Gardening in New Mexico
- Planting Fall Vegetables: Start seeds for cool-season crops like lettuce, spinach, kale, radishes, and peas.
- Harvesting Warm-Season Crops: Continue harvesting tomatoes, peppers, and other warm-season vegetables.
- Dividing Perennials: Dig and divide perennials like iris, peonies, hostas, and daylilies.
- Ordering Spring Bulbs: Order your spring-blooming bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.
- Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil for fall planting by adding organic matter and compost.
- Mulching: Add a 3-4 inch layer of mulch to conserve moisture, especially around plants that are still producing.
- Watering: Water deeply and less frequently, especially with the cooler temperatures and shorter days.
- Pest Control: Monitor for pests like caterpillars, aphids, and spider mites and treat as needed, according to The Old Farmer's Almanac.
- Weed Control: Stay on top of weeds, especially those that are going to seed, says The Old Farmer's Almanac.
- Lawn Care: Raise the mowing height on your lawn to 2.5-3 inches and water Bermuda lawns about 1 inch per week.
Tips for Success:
- Succession Planting: Consider succession planting shorter-season crops like radishes to extend your harvest.
- Choosing Varieties: Opt for varieties with shorter "days to harvest" when planting seeds, especially for fall crops.
- Planting Depth: Pay attention to planting depths when starting seeds indoors or transplanting seedlings.
- Soil Temperature: Use a soil thermometer to ensure proper planting depth for garlic, notes the National Gardening Association.
- Local Plant Sales: Check for local plant sales for deals on plants and seeds, according to The Old Farmer's Almanac.
- Consult Resources: Refer to planting calendars and guides specific to your area in New Mexico for more detailed information.
