Making the most of the growing season

If you're like me, you're both excited and sad that there's a hint of autumn in the air. Fall sends the kids back to school and the garden, if not to bed, to its last hurrah before shutting down for the winter. Because here on the West Coast, we can easily plant for a second harvest of cold-season crops.

The trick is to plant now before the days get too short. The brassica family (brocolli, kale, cauliflower, brussel sprouts) actually tastes better after going through a cold snap, due to a naturally-produced "antifreeze" - my favourite ingredient - sugar. The Renee's Garden website has a good article on growing for a second season.