Early September presents an opportune moment to sow cool-season vegetables such as lettuce, spinach, kale, radishes, and carrots. These crops flourish in the cooler early fall temperatures and can be harvested prior to the arrival of the first frost, typically later in the season.
September marks the inception of the fall bulb planting season. You can plant spring-blooming bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and crocuses during this time, giving them ample time to establish roots before winter.
While it may be somewhat late to start growing annual flowers from seeds in September, you can still introduce nursery-grown annuals to infuse your garden with color until the first frost arrives.
Early September is a suitable timeframe for overseeding an existing lawn or initiating a new one in Chicago. The warm soil and often more consistent rainfall in early fall create favorable conditions for the germination of grass seed.
Fall proves an excellent season for introducing perennials, shrubs, and trees into Chicago's soil. The residual warmth from the summer months encourages robust root development, and the cooler air temperatures ease the stress on recently planted greenery.
Early fall generally provides favorable conditions for tree planting in Chicago, especially for deciduous trees. The soil retains warmth, encouraging root development, while the cooler weather minimizes stress on newly planted trees.
It's worth noting that Chicago's first frost typically occurs later in the fall, extending the planting season into September. However, weather patterns can vary annually, so it's advisable to seek guidance from local gardening experts or nurseries for the most current recommendations tailored to your specific location within the city and the prevailing climate conditions. American Gardens can help you with your landscaping needs.