August 30, 2025 Weekly Gardening Guide
Episode Transcript
Intro Music Fades In and Out
Welcome back to the Keep Growing Podcast, folks! I’m your host, John Morgan, and we’re here to guide you through another week of gardening goodness in the Mid-Ohio Valley. It’s Week 36, spanning August 30th to September 5th, and we’ve got a packed lineup of tasks to keep your garden thriving as we transition into fall. Plus, we’ll check in on the weather and lunar cycles to help you plan. So, grab your trowel, and let’s dig in!
Segment 1: This Week’s Gardening Tasks
Alright, let’s get to the heart of it—here are your key tasks for Week 36:
Order Spring-Flowering Bulbs: Now’s the time to plan for next spring’s showstoppers. Tulips, daffodils, hyacinths—these beauties need to be ordered early to ensure you get the best selection. Check with local nurseries or trusted online suppliers. Pro tip: Look for bulbs that are firm and free of mold. Store them in a cool, dry place until planting time in late fall.
Plant Crocus: These little bursts of color are perfect for early spring blooms. Plant crocus bulbs about 3 to 4 inches deep in well-drained soil, ideally in a sunny spot. They’re great for borders or even naturalizing in your lawn for a carpet of color come March. With the First Quarter Moon on August 31st, Sunday is a prime day for planting these crops.
Dig Late Potatoes: If you’ve got late-season potatoes in the ground, it’s time to harvest. Check for mature spuds by digging around the base of the plant—look for firm skins that don’t rub off easily. Use a garden fork to avoid damaging them, and store your harvest in a cool, dark place to keep them fresh for months.
Seed Cover Crops: Want to give your soil a boost? Sow cover crops like clover, rye, or winter wheat this week. These plants improve soil health by adding organic matter, preventing erosion, and fixing nitrogen. Spread the seeds evenly, rake them in lightly, and water well. They’ll work their magic over the fall and winter.
Prepare the Root Cellar: If you’re lucky enough to have a root cellar, now’s the time to get it ready for your harvest. Clean it out, check for proper ventilation, and ensure the temperature stays cool with high humidity. This is perfect for storing potatoes, carrots, and other root veggies. No root cellar? A cool basement corner with proper containers can work, too.
Segment 2: Lunar Gardening Tip
This week, we’ve got a First Quarter Moon on Sunday, August 31st. In lunar gardening, this phase is ideal for planting or harvesting aboveground crops. So, when you’re popping those crocus bulbs in the ground, Sunday’s your day to align with the moon’s energy for optimal growth. If you’re harvesting greens or other aboveground veggies, Sunday’s also a great time to get out there with your basket.
Segment 3: Mid-Ohio Valley Weather Forecast
Let’s talk weather, because nature always has a say in our gardening plans. Here’s the forecast for the Mid-Ohio Valley:
Early Week (Saturday to Monday): Mostly dry conditions, so it’s a great time for planting crocus or digging potatoes. However, keep an eye out for possible storms in the mountain areas on Sunday and Monday afternoons. If you’re near the hills, have a backup plan to protect young plants.
Mid-Week (Tuesday to Wednesday): Moisture starts creeping in on Tuesday as an upper-level trough moves in from the west. Expect a chance of showers and thunderstorms, especially Wednesday afternoon and evening. If you’re seeding cover crops, aim to get them in the ground before the rain hits—those seeds will love the extra moisture.
Late Week (Thursday): A strong cold front is expected to roll through Thursday or Thursday night—models are still sorting out the exact timing. This could bring more showers and a noticeable cool-down, so wrap up any harvesting or planting early in the week to avoid soggy conditions.
Plan your heavier tasks like digging potatoes for the drier days early in the week, and save lighter tasks, like ordering bulbs, for when the rain chances pick up.
Segment 4: Listener Q&A
We’ve got a question from Sarah in Parkersburg: “John, how do I know when my potatoes are ready to dig?” Great question, Sarah! Check a few plants by gently digging around the base. If the potato skins are firm and don’t rub off with your thumb, they’re ready. Also, the plant’s foliage should be yellowing or dying back. If you’re unsure, harvest a small test batch and see how they look. Thanks for the question, Sarah—keep growing!
Want to send in your own question? Drop me a line at keepgrowing@bobsmarket.com, and I’ll answer it on the air.
Segment 5: Closing Thoughts
That’s a wrap for Week 36, folks! Whether you’re ordering those spring bulbs, planting crocus, or prepping your root cellar, this is a busy week to set your garden up for success. Take advantage of the First Quarter Moon on Sunday for planting, and keep an eye on the weather as those rain chances increase mid-week. As always, stay curious, keep learning, and keep growing.
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