As I was reading through the Fall issue of Charleston Home, I learned some interesting things to help my green thumb and my green gardening knowledge.

First, it’s not too late to plant some Fall veggies! One of Charleston Home’s “to-dos” for Fall is “Grow a new vegetable.” In the article “Fall Task List,” Sidi Limehouse of Rosebank Farms shares some gardening knowledge:

“veggies like squash, cucumbers, and string beans can be planted between August 15 and September 15 and harvested within 60 to 90 days.”

Just in time for Thanksgiving! (And don’t forget, the 15th is this Saturday.)

In the magazine’s front porch section, Charleston Home’s garden editor shares some earth-friendly gardening tips:

• Conserve Water – by spreading pine straw or mulch around your plants or by planting plants that need less water, like crinum lilies, dune sunflower, and Carolina ruellia (pictured at right)

• Cut the Amount of Turf Grass in Your Yard by Half – by planting shrubs, trees and flowering plants

• Return Green Matter to the Earth – by using composted organic matter vs. synthetic fertilizers

• Reduce or Eliminate the Use of Harmful Chemicals – by seeking out natural alternatives before relying on quick fix and long-term effect chemicals

Want to learn more about green gardening? This year’s Charleston Garden Festival will focus on environmentally friendly approaches to gardening. The festival will be held at Middleton Place on October 19 – 21. Visit www.charlestongardenfestival.org.