The arrival of autumn in the Southern Hemisphere brings about significant changes in temperature and other factors, as well as in the activities that we carry out in our gardens and farms. For small-scale horticulture, the beginning of this season is an ideal time to start preparing for winter production and to harvest the last fruits of summer.

At this time of year, temperatures begin to drop, and the daily hours of light (photoperiod) decrease. This means that plants will need less water and nutrients. Therefore, it is essential to adjust irrigation and fertilization to avoid excess moisture in the soil and reduce the excessive growth of some plants or fungi that may have adverse effects on our crops.

Another important aspect at this time of year is the preparation of our entire cultivation area for winter, whether in crop beds or even pots. It is the ideal time to work the soil and add nutrients such as compost or manure. However, it is essential to note that working the soil does not mean "turning over the soil." These practices will help us improve the quality of our soil and prepare it for the winter crop planting.

It is also a good time to collect seeds and fruits from the plants that we have grown during the summer. By collecting and storing our seeds, we can ensure that we have specific varieties of our favorite crops and save money by not having to buy new seeds each season.

When it comes to planting winter crops, there are many options available during this time of year. Popular options for our zone include green leafy vegetables like spinach and chard, as well as varieties of cabbages and roots like carrots, beets, and turnips.

Finally, autumn is also a time when we can start planning our garden for the next spring and summer season. We can research new plant varieties, review our planting calendar, and plan crop rotation to maintain soil health.