September Gardening Tasks

Expand the categories below to learn more about what you need to do this month.

Soil Testing

Test the soil in your beds in Fall for plant nutrients and lime needs. Soil tests usually take 10 days, so test now to have the results when you plant bulbs and beds. Soil test bags are available at the extension office. It is important to till in any needed lime (if any) for faster soil pH adjustment. You should also incorporate any needed phosphorus at this time.

Vegetables

Lawns

Flowers

Trees

Houseplants

In late September, start to bring plants in before temperatures drop into the fifties at night. Many true tropicals in containers can get chill injury from temperatures as high as 50 deg. F! Clean and wash before moving indoors to reduce insects. Fertilize lightly before winter conditions arrive and growth slows. Saved poinsettias and holiday cacti can be forced into late November to Christmas blooming by starting dark treatment of short days – consult the Hall County Extension for details.