Gardening season isn't over yet

Toward the end of August and early September, conditions are prime to plant cool-season crops for fall harvest. These plants aren't made for the long and intensely hot days of summer. Late summer’s cooling nighttime temperatures and shorter days with less sunshine offer the right conditions.
Plants to consider:

• Green leafy vegetables like kale, spinach, lettuce, collard greens, chard
• Beets
• Broccoli
• Carrots

For best results, follow these tips:

• Look for seeds with packets that say they will mature in 60 days or less.
• Keep the seeds evenly moist for the first few weeks as they are established.
• Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every other week.
• Apply a layer of well-seasoned compost to nurture the soil.
• Have a frost protection plan ready should we get early snow.

It’s also a good time to plant herbs like basil, parsley, cilantro, and dill. Since Colorado can see frosts in early September, planting them in containers is best. If conditions get too cold, bring them indoors overnight. When winter comes, keep them inside to enjoy through the cold-weather months.