Ask an Expert – August Gardening Tips for Late Summer Splendor

The heat is on, and yards and gardens are trying to survive the recent high temperatures. Consider these tips from the USU Extension Gardeners Almanac to help your garden succeed. Also included are links for further information.

• Consider planting cover crops to provide “green manure” to the garden.
• Collect and store seeds from your garden.
• Learn about how and when to harvest watermelon and cantaloupe.
• Harvest potatoes as soon as tubers begin forming.
• Harvest garlic and onions once the tops have dried down. Allow them to dry for 2-3 weeks before storing.
• Store potatoes, garlic, and onions in a cool/dry location (32-40°F) away from apples.
• Plant trees and shrubs as the weather becomes cooler.
• Go hiking in the hills to enjoy autumn colors.
• Divide crowded, spring-blooming perennials.
• Consider composting fall leaves.
• Check pears for ripeness once the fruit twists off the tree easily and seeds are dark colored, then allow them to finish ripening off the tree.
• Apply a slow-release lawn fertilizer early in September to provide long-lasting results throughout the fall.
• Remember that as temperatures cool, turfgrass requires minimal irrigation each week. See irrigation needs in your area.
• Plant new lawns or repair insect/diseased areas with grass seed, allowing 4-6 weeks for establishment before heavy frosts.
• Aerate compacted sites with a hollow core aerator when turfgrass is actively growing (September to October).

Pests and Problems:

• Control raspberry crown borer using a root drench during late summer or early fall.
• Learn about diseases and problems in apples and how to manage them. 
• Control rust mites in apple and pear trees after harvesting fruit and before leaf drop.
• Watch for boxelder bugs congregating on sunny surfaces during the fall months.
• Monitor for damaging turfgrass insects.
• Subscribe to the Utah Pests IPM Advisories for timely tips on controlling yard and garden pests.