The Dirt on Fall Gardening in East Texas

If you’ve ever tried to push a shovel into East Texas ground, you already know: our soil has a mind of its own. That famous red clay sticks to your boots, clumps around your tools, and dares you to give up before you’ve even started. But here’s the thing — when you learn how to work with it, that same stubborn soil will grow some of the tastiest vegetables you’ll ever put on the table.

I remember my uncle reminding us not to be afraid of dirt. To him, soil was more than just what plants grew in — it was where family meals, traditions, and stories began. He'd laugh and say, “God made dirt, dirt don’t hurt,” before sending us into the garden to pull weeds. That old East Texas saying still carries weight today, especially this time of year when the garden season turns a corner and we start preparing for fall.

Why Soil Prep Matters in September

September isn’t just a transition month — it’s a golden opportunity. The blazing summer heat begins to ease, moisture lingers a little longer, and roots have time to establish before winter. Prepping your soil now sets you up for cool-season crops that thrive in our region.

Here are five simple ways to get your garden soil fall-ready:

1. Loosen it up – Break up compacted clay with a garden fork. Give roots room to stretch.

2. Mix in compost – Add rich organic matter to feed your soil and improve structure.

3. Top with mulch – Shredded hardwood mulch, shredded leaves or pine straw keeps moisture steady and protects young roots.

4. Test your soil – A simple pH and nutrient test helps you know exactly what your garden needs.
   

These steps may look small, but together they turn tough dirt into a thriving home for your fall veggies.

The Saying That Stuck

Around here, “God made dirt, dirt don’t hurt” isn’t just something you say when kids play outside. It’s a reminder that good things come when we roll up our sleeves and get a little messy. That saying is part of East Texas legacy — and it inspired the very first piece of merch we created for Marshall Garden Co.

East Texas roots run deep — our God Made Dirt, Dirt Don’t Hurt tee celebrates the saying we grew up with. Every shirt sold helps support the launch of Marshall Garden Co.

Support Marshall Garden Co. with a Tee

We designed the God Made Dirt, Dirt Don’t Hurt t-shirt as a nod to that East Texas wisdom we grew up with. It’s cheeky, rooted in tradition, and a way for you to show off your love for gardening while supporting our dream of building Marshall Garden Co.

Every shirt sold helps us take the next steps toward opening a community garden center right here in East Texas.

• Price: $25

• Sizes: Small through 4XL

• Available now: MarshallGardenCo.com/shop

Join the Community 🌱

If you’re getting your soil ready this fall, don’t miss out on our free resources and updates. Sign up for our email list to grab the East Texas Fall Planting Guide and get first access to gardening tips, community events, and new merch.

👉 Click here to join the Marshall Garden Co. email list

Because in East Texas, we know one thing for sure: God made dirt, dirt don’t hurt — and that’s where every remarkable garden begins.