September is a good month to reset an Alabama garden. The days can still be hot, but nights begin to cool. That gives gardeners a chance to keep summer crops going while starting vegetables and flowers for fall.
The key is to work with the season. Plant cool-weather crops now, keep new plants watered, and do not remove healthy summer plants too soon.
Vegetables to Plant in September
September is one of the best times to start a fall vegetable garden in Alabama. Cool-season crops can grow well as the weather becomes milder.
- Broccoli — Set out young plants early in the month. See our guide to growing broccoli in Alabama for timing and care tips.
- Cabbage — Transplants can establish well as nights get cooler.
- Cauliflower — Plant early enough to let roots grow before cold weather.
- Collards — These handle cool weather well and often taste better after light frost.
- Mustard greens — Fast growth makes them a good choice for fall beds.
- Turnips — Grow them for roots, greens, or both.
- Spinach — Sow seed as the soil begins to cool.
- Carrots and beets — Direct sow in loose soil and keep the seed bed moist.
Summer Crops That May Keep Producing
Do not pull healthy warm-season plants just because September has arrived. Peppers, eggplant, and okra may keep producing while days stay warm.
Keep picking ripe fruit. Remove weak or diseased plants first when you need room for fall crops.
Herbs to Plant in September
Cooler weather is a good fit for several herbs.
- Parsley — Plant now for cool-season growth.
- Cilantro — Fall is much easier than summer for this herb. Our Alabama cilantro guide explains why cool weather matters.
- Dill — Sow seed in a sunny spot with good drainage.
- Chives — A simple perennial choice for beds and containers.
Flowers to Plant in September
September can still bring plenty of color. Some summer flowers keep blooming, while cool-season choices can be planted for the months ahead.
Fall Color
- Mums — Good for beds, pots, and porches.
- Pansies and violas — Plant as the weather cools for long-lasting color.
- Zinnias — Healthy plants may keep flowering until frost.
- Marigolds — These can keep blooming through much of fall.
Perennials
Early fall can also be a good time to plant hardy perennials. Coneflowers, coreopsis, daylilies, and black-eyed Susans can start making roots before winter.
Prepare the Soil Before Planting
Fall crops grow best in loose soil with good drainage. Before adding fertilizer or lime, it helps to know what the soil needs. Our Alabama garden soil test guide shows how to collect a sample and use the results.
September Garden Care
- Water new plants. Keep the root area moist while plants settle in.
- Use mulch. A light layer helps hold moisture and slow weeds.
- Watch for pests. Caterpillars, aphids, and other insects can still be active.
- Sow small batches. Plant greens every week or two for a longer harvest.
- Give plants room. Good spacing improves airflow and lowers disease pressure.
September Is a Fresh Start
September is not the end of the Alabama garden. It is the start of another useful growing season. Keep the best summer crops, add cool-season vegetables, and plant flowers that enjoy milder weather.
A little work now can lead to fresh greens, roots, herbs, and color well into fall.