Fall in Cambria offers a perfect opportunity to refresh your garden as cooler weather arrives on the Central Coast. Whether you’re planning for holiday herbs, cool-season crops, or seasonal color, we’ve put together some expert tips from Shana, our expert horticulturalist, to help you make the most of your autumn garden.
1. Plant Fall Herbs for Holiday Cooking
Shana recommends planting now for a bountiful herb garden through the holidays. Her favorites include marjoram—a sweeter, less bitter alternative to oregano—and tarragon, perfect for a Thanksgiving carrot salad. “It’s so good with our tomatoes that are coming in at this time of year!” she adds. Essential herbs like sage, thyme, and lemon balm are also must-haves for fall, adding aroma and flavor to your meals, plus lemon balm makes a delicious agua fresca.
2. Cool-season Vegetables for Winter Harvests
Cambria’s mild fall is perfect for planting cool-weather crops. Swiss chard, arugula, kale, and lettuce thrive in cooler temperatures. Shana also recommends artichokes, available in a 6-pack at the Cambria Nursery, noting, “I feel very confident you’d be eating artichokes in May if you plant this now!”
3. Add Fall Structure with Perennials and Shrubs
Now’s the time to plant perennials and shrubs that will flourish next spring. Shana loves Leucadendron Jester, and Leucospermum Tango, perfect for Mediterranean gardens with striking foliage and vibrant blooms. She says, “Leucadendron is one of the most glorious and beautiful foliage plants I’ve ever worked with in the garden.” She also suggests Coprosma Tequila Sunrise, a standout shrub that adds texture and rich color to any garden.
4. Mulch for Moisture and Protection
As temperatures drop, mulch is key to keeping your garden healthy. Shana has used Grow Mulch for over 25 years, recommending it for retaining moisture and adding nutrients. For a tidy look, she also suggests a thick layer of Walk On Bark to protect and polish your garden beds.
5. Prepare for Winter Blooms
Looking ahead, Shana recommends planting for winter and spring blooms. Mediterranean plants like Leucadendron and Leucospermum thrive during this time. “At this time of year, they’re not really on people’s radar, but they are spectacular and in prime condition,” she says.
6. Refresh and Reevaluate Your Garden
Fall is an ideal time to reassess your garden. “It’s a great time to shop the Nursery and see what options might be available to get some seasonal color and new texture.” She suggests. Larger, mature plants like tea trees are currently available at the Nursery and offer great value.
Visit Cambria Nursery for Fall Gardening Essentials
From herbs and cool-season veggies to shrubs and mulch, Cambria Nursery has everything you need for fall gardening. Stop by to get personalized advice from our team, including Shana, and discover the perfect plants for your coastal garden.
Following these expert tips will create a vibrant, thriving fall garden that shines well into the winter months. For expert gardening tips or plant recommendations, come visit us at Cambria Nursery! We’re open every day from 9 AM to 5 PM, and our team would love to help you bring your fall garden to life. And don’t forget to read our other blog posts for additional tips and ideas!
About Shana Shana is a dedicated landscape designer and expert horticulturalist, and we have been lucky to have her involved with the Nursery for several years. Her passion for plants and gardening is evident in her extensive knowledge, which she shares with our community through workshops and day-to-day interactions at the Nursery. In addition, Shana also designs stunning light displays and decor for the Cambria Christmas Market, enhancing the festive atmosphere for our visitors each year. Come find Shana at the Nursery, she’ll happily help you pick the perfect plants and products to make your garden come to life!
