Farmers are extremely busy during the fall harvest as they gather their crops, and reap the rewards of their labor. Did you know that you could have a mini-harvest from your very own outdoor spaces?

Growing in Small Spaces 

It doesn’t take much space to grow your own delicious food. Even just a few containers on a deck or patio can provide you with some delicious treats to harvest later. Homeowners love to watch and care for their plant as it grows and feel a sense of accomplishment when they are able to eat and share what they have grown.

Florida’s Cool Season 

While herbs are the most popular choice for a start in container gardening, wouldn’t it be fun to try your hands at something more? The Institute of Food and Agricultural Science (IFAS) at the University of Florida, shares a plethora of information for amateur and skilled gardeners alike. They suggest that the fall, which they refer to as “the cool season”, is a good time to plant greens such as mustard greens, spinach, kale, collard greens, and cabbage. These greens provide useful vitamins and minerals for your body and best of all, they are delicious! Here are a few other vegetables that IFAS suggests planting this fall.

• Arugula

• Beets

• Broccoli

• Brussels Sprouts

• Cabbage

• Carrots

• Cauliflower

• Endive

• English Peas

• Fennel

• Garlic

• Greens

• Kale

• Leeks

• Lettuce

• Onions and Shallots

• Radishes

• Swiss Chard

• Turnips

Hydroponic Options

If working with soil isn’t your thing, consider investing in some small hydroponic growing kits that require less maintenance and can even be used indoors. Hydroponics can be grown in sand, gravel, or water and most kits use water exclusively. With proper care, hydroponically grown vegetables can be just as nutritious as those grown in soil. 

Retractable Awnings

Retractable awning owners have a unique ability to provide plants with partial sun as needed. It also provides gardeners with a shaded, dry space to store materials and enjoy their outdoor spaces without worrying about damaging sun exposure. Imagine sitting back in the shade and enjoying the beautiful outdoor space that you worked so hard for! Even with passing rain showers, you can still enjoy protection under your awning. 

If you are considering investing in a retractable awning, storm protection, or SunSetter EasyShades, Awning Authority is happy to help! For over ten years we have been working with home and business owners in the Villages, Ocala, Leesburg, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas to create beautiful, protective outdoor spaces for whatever it is they enjoy! We are proud to be Florida’s #1 awning provider and installer. Contact us today to schedule your free demonstration.