The EarthBox Garden Notes · September 2026
Your fall garden starts here.
Hello, gardening friends!
September may still feel like summer in Ellenton, but it’s time to look ahead to homegrown vegetables, fresh herbs, and the pleasure of picking something for dinner. You don’t need a huge backyard or a perfect plan. Start with a few things you love to eat, make room for them to grow, and take it one planting day at a time.
This month’s garden notes will help you choose your next crops and get ready for the season ahead.
On your planting list
What can you grow in September?
Central Florida’s September planting window includes both warm-season favorites and the beginnings of a leafy fall garden. Use these ideas as a starting point, then match varieties and timing to your growing space.
Start with young plants
Tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant are September options. For leafy choices, consider kale, collards, or Chinese cabbage. Healthy transplants are a practical way to get started.
Sow something from seed
Bush beans, carrots, radishes, cucumbers, and squash are on UF/IFAS’s Central Florida September list. Check the seed packet for planting depth and spacing, and leave room for the crop’s mature size.
Planting reference: UF/IFAS monthly planting guide — September, Central Florida.
Make a little room for herbs
Basil, rosemary, mint, and Mexican tarragon tolerate early fall’s warmth. For a splash of color nearby, consider zinnias, celosia, or wax begonias. September is also a good month to check irrigation coverage as summer rains begin to taper off.
Seasonal reference: UF/IFAS Central Florida Gardening Calendar.
Explore our planting schedule →A little preparation goes a long way
Your September garden checklist
- Check your sunlight. Most vegetables need at least six hours of direct sun. Look at your space before deciding where to plant.
- Give roots a good start. For in-ground beds, finished compost can improve soil. For an EarthBox, use the potting mix and setup recommended for your system.
- Pay attention to moisture. Young vegetables need consistent care. Adjust watering to rainfall and growing conditions; avoid leaving ordinary pots or beds waterlogged.
- Take a close look each week. Check leaves for feeding damage or changes in color. Identify the problem before treating it—some insects are helpful garden visitors.
General vegetable-care reference: UF/IFAS Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide.
The EarthBox corner
Ready for another growing season?
Before replanting, take a moment to check your EarthBox and gather what you need. Our team can help with potting mix, fertilizer, dolomite, mulch covers, and replacement parts for your particular system.
Bring a photo of your setup and a short wish list of what you’d like to grow. We’ll help you work through the next steps, whether you’re refreshing one box or planning a larger garden.
Shop the Original EarthBox Replant Kit →Learn with us in Ellenton
A little guidance. A growing confidence.
Join a free EarthBox gardening class on Wednesday or Saturday at 10 a.m. at the garden center. No registration is required—just come by with your questions.
Let’s get your fall garden growing.
Stop in for help choosing plants and supplies, or ask about our Backyard Garden Packages with local delivery and setup. Plant selection depends on seasonal availability; call for current options.
Happy planting,
Your EarthBox Garden Center team
1023 36th Ave E · Ellenton, FL 34222
941-723-2911
Current hours & directions · Shop online
September 2026 edition. Gardening recommendations are general guidance; local conditions and varieties affect planting success.