Haws Tools for Fall Harvesting: A Seasonal Guide

Autumn is such an incredible season in the garden, full of subtle changes and quieter moments. I’ve always felt that the beauty of gardening comes not just from the flowers in spring or the abundance of summer crops but in the shift that happens as the garden begins to slow down in autumn. The crisp mornings, the rustling of fallen leaves, and the slower pace of growth—it all invites reflection. There’s a peacefulness to it, a time to take stock of what the garden has given and prepare for the next season.

 Rob’s grandfather’s Haws Watering Can, over 70 years old.

It’s in these quieter moments that I really appreciate my old Haws watering can, passed down from my grandad. It’s not just about the practicality of the tool; it’s a connection to my roots. Using a watering can that’s been in my family for over 70 years brings a sense of continuity to my gardening. Every time I pick it up, I’m reminded of my grandad’s approach to gardening—slow, steady, and with a respect for the natural rhythms of the land. The gentle flow of water from the Haws can seem to match the mood of the season, allowing me to slow down and enjoy the process of nurturing the garden, even as it winds down.

The crisp mornings, the rustling of fallen leaves, and the slower pace of growth—it all invites reflection.

Why Haws Cans Stand Out

I find that Haws cans have several advantages over other watering tools like hoses or modern spray systems. In this season, when the soil is more prone to holding moisture, you want to be careful not to overwater. A hose can easily flood an area, especially with the cooler, wetter weather, which can lead to waterlogged roots and unhealthy plants. But with a Haws can, I have complete control over where and how much water I give to each plant. The design of the can, especially the long spout and rose attachment, makes it easy to target water directly at the roots where it’s needed most.

The Haws Rowley Ripple Two Pint - a perfect match for delicate plants that require a gentler spray.

Autumn Garden Rituals

On a typical autumn day, I’ll walk around the garden, checking on the moisture levels of the soil by sticking my fingers in—if it’s still damp a couple of centimetres down (around an inch), I know I can skip watering for the day. But for those areas that need a little drink, like my winter lettuces or any recently sown seeds, the Haws can lets me give just the right amount without overdoing it. It’s especially helpful for crops like leeks, kale, and chard, which are still growing in autumn. These plants need consistent, moderate moisture, and the Haws can makes sure they get just that.

Adapting Your Watering Routine for Fall

Watering needs definitely shift as we move into autumn. In summer, the heat means frequent watering, but in autumn, you’ve got to be a bit more mindful. The soil holds onto water longer, especially in cooler temperatures, so it's important to check the moisture before you water. One thing I love about using a Haws can in this season is that it allows for precision. Instead of soaking the entire garden, I can water specific plants or areas that need it, which is key to keeping things healthy as we head into winter. I typically focus on root crops like carrots and parsnips, which are still maturing underground. These crops don’t want to be sitting in soggy soil, so I water carefully and directly at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the leaves unnecessarily.

"In summer, the heat means frequent watering, but in autumn, you’ve got to be a bit more mindful."

How to Nurture Fall Crops with Haws

Another autumn watering tip is to use the fine rose attachment on your Haws can, particularly when watering tender seedlings or delicate leaves like winter greens or spinach. These plants are more sensitive to heavy splashes of water, and the fine rose creates a gentle spray that keeps them healthy without damaging them. It's also a great way to water late-season flowers like pansies or violas, which benefit from a bit of moisture to keep blooming into the colder months.

Haws Rowley Ripple in Berry - an exclusive Goodee color.

From One Generation to the Next

Autumn holds a lot of special memories for me in the garden, especially when the harvests are still coming in, but you’re also preparing for the quiet of winter. My grandad was always focused on both—the immediate joys of the harvest and the long-term planning for next year’s garden. We’d spend autumn afternoons pulling up the last of the root vegetables and preserving what we could for the colder months. His old Haws watering can was always by his side, and it’s still by mine. There’s a deep sense of continuity and tradition when I use it—like I’m carrying on his legacy every time I water a plant. It’s not just a tool; it’s a reminder of where I’ve come from and the lessons he taught me. That sense of connection to the past is part of what makes autumn gardening so special to me.

I’m reminded of my grandad’s approach to gardening—slow, steady, and with a respect for the natural rhythms of the land.

From Garden to Table: Favorite Autumn Recipe

There’s something particularly rewarding about making a hearty dish from your own harvest at the end of the season. One recipe I always look forward to is a simple but delicious roasted squash and leek soup. It’s perfect for those chilly autumn evenings.

Recipe:
- Roast the squash with a bit of garlic and thyme
- Sauté the leeks until they’re soft and sweet.
- Blend it all together with a bit of stock, and you’ve got a warming, flavourful soup that really celebrates the best of the autumn harvest.

It’s these simple, wholesome meals that remind me of why I love gardening—being able to take what you’ve grown and turn it into something nourishing for you and your family.

Rob's trusted quality control partner, Nipper.