Editor of this issue: Xinxue Wang

Dear DKU gardener:

The hot summer is gradually coming to an end, and it might be a good time to start preparing for autumn sowing. Spending a little time planning now will soon reward you with the joy of a lush and fruitful garden!

🌱 Clearing and Soil Preparation (Recommended to complete by late August)

  • Consider a “Decluttering” Session: It is advisable to remove withered and diseased old plants from the spring and summer seasons, along with weeds, to effectively reduce sources of pests and diseases.

  • Water Thoroughly: One or two days before tilling the soil, give the land a deep watering. This not only rehydrates the sun-baked earth but also softens the soil, making subsequent tilling easier and less prone to compaction.

  • Remember to “Feed” the Soil: It is recommended to compost the healthy plant debris cleared from the garden. Meanwhile, deeply turn the well-watered soil and incorporate plenty of well-rotted organic fertilizer to provide a hearty “base meal” for the new seedlings.

🌱 Selecting Autumn Sowing Varieties

Late August to early September is an ideal time for sowing. Here are some easy-to-grow options to consider:

  • Fast-Growing Leafy Greens: Shanghai Green Bok Choy, Cherry Radish, Spinach, and Leaf Lettuce (can be sown by late month!).
  • Cold-Tolerant Vegetables: Suzhou Green Bok Choy, Garlic, Peas, and Broad Beans are also great choices (perfect for preparing your autumn and winter table).
  • Herbs and Accents: Why not try growing some Cilantro, Crown Daisy, Chives, Basil, or Perilla?

👉 Yuefengdao’s Brother Tang plans to organize a group seed purchase—stay tuned for details!

🌱 Try these tips

  • Pre-germination: Before sowing, you might try soaking seeds like spinach and cilantro in warm water—this can help improve their germination rate.

  • Smart weeding tools: Tired of pulling weeds by hand? Try using a hoe to cut down weeds instead.

🌱 Event Preview

  • End of August: Yuefengdao Autumn Sowing Field Trip
  • Mid-September: Biolan Compost Bin Factory Field Trip
  • Every Other Wednesday: Brother Tang’s Gardening Exchange at Yuefengdao
  • Garden Co-building: Tool Shed Design Workshop; Working Bee (Public area cleanup, gravel replenishment, gabion filling)