Hey Gardeners! Today, I’m taking you on a late summer garden tour. This summer was tough on my plants. Cooler weather, heavy rain, and heatwaves made it challenging. Still, some plants thrived while others struggled. Here’s what’s happening in my garden.
Tomatoes: Blossom End Rot and Volunteer Surprises
My tomatoes started strong but struggled to set fruit. Blossom end rot hit due to all the rain, except for my cherry tomatoes, they did amazingly well! Pruning was better than last year, though still a work in progress. The big surprise? Volunteer tomatoes, I didn’t even plant they’re fruiting now, and I can’t wait to see what variety they turn out to be. Check out this article to learn more about blossom end rot.
Peppers: A Slow Start but Showing Promise
Peppers were slow this year, but they transplanted well. Bell peppers produced a few fruits, while my hot peppers in grow bags did better than those in raised beds. My scotch bonnet is growing slowly I’m hoping to overwinter it in the garage for next season. Check out my other post about my peppers not flowering.
Cucumbers and Squash: Highs and Lows
Cucumbers were the MVP of the garden. I’ve eaten more than ever, and they’re still producing. My kabocha squash took over a bed but only produced one fruit. Last year I lost the plant to squash vine borers, so at least there’s progress.
Melons and Strawberries: Mixed Results
Cantaloupe produced no fruit, and my lone watermelon split before ripening. Strawberries started slow but now produce regularly and are sending out runners.
Leafy Greens and Root Crops: Callaloo and Potatoes
Callaloo has been a powerhouse—tall and regrowing after harvest. Potatoes are a mystery: plants died back, then regrew. I’ll check them before season’s end.
Corn and Herbs: Lessons Learned
Corn didn’t perform well, but I learned a lot and plan to try again next year. Herbs, on the other hand, are thriving and producing better than ever.
I’m amazed at how much is still growing as the season winds down. I’ll continue fertilizing and prepping for my first fall garden. How’s your garden this late summer? Share your updates in the comments!
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