August is a month of warm temperatures, long sunlight hours, and varying rainfall. To keep your garden in tip-top shade even in hot and dry weather, you have to water crops diligently, monitor soil quality, and watch out for pests and diseases.

What gardening tasks do you do this month? We’ve prepared a checklist. But first, here are some factors to consider when gardening in August.

Temperature and Humidity Levels

August often brings warm to hot temperatures. In many regions, daytime highs can reach into the 80s or 90s Fahrenheit (27-37 Celsius). Nights might be cooler but still warm, usually in the 60s or 70s Fahrenheit (15-25 Celsius). These high temperatures can cause the soil to dry out quickly, so regular watering is essential.

Humidity levels can be high in August, particularly in regions close to large bodies of water or in tropical climates. High humidity can promote plant growth and create favorable conditions for fungal diseases. To prevent diseases, ensure proper spacing between plants for air circulation and consider using fungicides if necessary.

Weather

August is a month with long days and abundant sunlight. Gardens receive many hours of direct sunlight, which is beneficial for plant growth but can also lead to increased evaporation from the soil. To keep plants healthy, ensure they have enough water and consider mulching to help retain soil moisture.

Rainfall in August can vary greatly. Some areas might experience frequent thunderstorms, which can bring heavy but short bursts of rain, while other regions might have dry spells. Check local weather forecasts to anticipate rainfall. If your area is prone to dry spells, plan for additional watering to keep your garden thriving.

While not as common, occasional windy days can occur in August. Strong winds can damage plants, especially tall or delicate ones. To protect your garden, stake taller plants and ensure they are well-supported.

General Maintenance

• August’s warm weather is ideal for soil preparation. It is a good time to add compost or organic matter to enrich the soil. This helps improve soil structure, retain moisture, and provide nutrients for plants.

• August is a transitional month for many gardens. In cooler regions, it might be time to start planting fall crops like broccoli, kale, and carrots. In warmer areas, continue to harvest summer vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers. Keep an eye on the health of your plants and look out for pests, which can be more active in the warm weather.

• Regular garden maintenance is crucial in August. This includes weeding, pruning, and checking for pests. Watering should be done early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation and make the most of the water.

10 Gardening Tasks For August

For gardeners, August is a busy month since it’s when you get to enjoy the results of your effort and get ready for the cooler months ahead. These are the top ten gardening chores you should complete in August:

Deadheading

Deadheading the garden is essential to keeping it looking its best in August. Snipping away dead or dying flowers keeps the plants healthy. How? Removing the dead flowers encourages the plant to focus on growing new blooms.

Removing dead flowers encourages plants to produce more flowers, extending the blooming period. If not cut, dead flowers can attract pests and diseases, so removing them helps keep the plant healthy. Also, a garden without dead flowers looks vibrant and tidy.

For effective deadheading, check your garden regularly for dead flowers, especially during peak blooming season. Deadhead during the cooler parts of the day to reduce stress on the plants. Collect and dispose of the dead flowers in a compost bin or yard waste container to keep the garden neat.

Many flowering plants benefit from deadheading. Some common ones include:

• Roses
• Petunias
• Marigolds
• Geraniums
• Zinnias

Pruning

Pruning means cutting back parts of the plant to improve its health and shape. It is different from deadheading, though both are important for garden care. Deadheading removes faded or dead flowers, while pruning removes dead, damaged, or overgrown branches and stems.

Pruning promotes healthy growth, improves plant shape, and prevents disease. Cutting back overgrown parts helps new growth and can make the plant stronger. Pruning helps maintain the plant’s desired shape and size, making the garden look neat and organized. It also improves airflow around the plant, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

To prune a plant, check for dead, damaged, or overcrowded branches. Use clean and sharp pruning shears or pruning scissors to make precise cuts. Cut at a slight angle just above a healthy bud or branch junction.

Different plants have different pruning needs. Research the specific requirements for each type of plant. Also, you can reduce stress on plants by pruning in the cooler parts of the day.

Install Plant Covers

August can bring hot days and cooler nights. Plant covers like burlap fabric can help maintain a more consistent temperature around your plants, protecting them from heat stress during the day and cooler temperatures at night. Covers can also create a microclimate that allows for extended growing periods, which is especially useful for late-season crops.

These covers keep insects, birds, and small animals away from plants, preventing damage and reducing the need for pesticides. Plant covers also help maintain a consistent temperature around the plants, protecting them from extreme heat during the day and cooler temperatures at night.

By limiting exposure to rain and overhead watering, covers can reduce the risk of fungal diseases that thrive in wet conditions.

Plant covers are often made from different materials, including natural fibers like cloth and burlap. Select covers suitable for your plants, such as row covers, cloches, or shade cloths. Use stakes, rocks, or soil to anchor the edges of the cover to prevent it from being blown away by the wind. Check under the covers regularly for pests or signs of disease and ensure proper ventilation.

Collect seeds and ripe seed pods for the next growing season

Collecting seeds and ripe seed pods ensures there’s enough to sow come the next growing season.

Collecting your own seeds reduces the need to buy new seeds for the next growing season. This can save money and make gardening more economical. By collecting seeds from your favorite plants, you can preserve unique and heirloom varieties. This ensures you continue to grow the plants you love and maintain genetic diversity in your garden.

Saving seeds also promotes sustainable gardening practices. It reduces dependency on commercial seed suppliers and encourages a more self-sufficient approach to gardening.

To collect seeds in the garden this August, look for plants with mature seed pods or flowers that have dried up and produced seeds. These seeds are usually firm and dry. Gently remove the seeds or seed pods from the plant. Avoid damaging the seeds during the process.

Spread the seeds out on a paper towel or screen in a cool, dry place. Allow them to dry completely to prevent mold and rot during storage. Place the dried seeds in labeled envelopes or containers. Store them in a cool, dark, and dry place until you are ready to plant them next season.

Water regularly, especially after a hot weather forecastWatering regularly, especially after a hot weather forecast, is crucial for maintaining a healthy garden in August. It prevents plant stress, supports growth, maintains soil health, and reduces the risk of disease. By watering deeply, at the right times, and using efficient methods, you ensure your garden remains vibrant and productive throughout the summer.

Besides preventing heat stress, regular watering helps plants absorb nutrients from the soil. Consistent watering keeps the soil hydrated, promoting beneficial microbial activity. These microbes help break down organic matter and release nutrients, creating a fertile environment for plants.

Some tips to keep in mind in August:

• Instead of frequent shallow watering, water deeply to encourage roots to grow deeper into the soil. This makes plants more drought-resistant.

• Water your garden early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. This reduces water loss through evaporation and ensures that plants can absorb more moisture.

• Regularly check the soil moisture by sticking your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.

• Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to help retain soil moisture and reduce evaporation. Mulch also helps keep the soil cool during hot weather.

Sow hardy annuals

Sowing hardy annuals in August is crucial for a vibrant garden. It extends the blooming period, results in stronger plants, makes efficient use of garden space, and reduces the workload in spring.

Sowing hardy annuals in late summer ensures they establish roots before winter. This results in early blooms next spring, providing color and beauty to your garden much sooner than if you wait until spring to plant.

After summer crops and flowers fade, you can use the vacant garden space to sow hardy annuals. This keeps your garden productive and filled with life, maximizing the use of available space.

To sow hardy annuals, choose those suitable for the local climate. Native plants are your best bet. Common choices include pansies, calendula, and larkspur.

Follow the seed packet instructions for depth and spacing. Gently press the seeds into the soil and cover them lightly. Water the soil gently to keep it moist but not waterlogged. Consistent moisture helps seeds germinate and establish roots. Keep an eye on the seedlings as they grow. Water them as needed and protect them from pests.

Check for signs of pests or diseases

Early detection prevents the spread of pests or diseases, protects plant health, improves yields, and reduces the need for chemical treatments. Controlling pests and diseases can ensure a better harvest.

Pests and diseases can weaken plants, reducing their ability to absorb nutrients and water. Regular checks help keep plants strong and healthy. By inspecting leaves, stems, and roots and taking immediate action when issues are found, you ensure your garden remains vibrant and productive through the late summer.

To check for pests and diseases before they get worse, look for holes, discoloration, or unusual spots on the leaves. These can be signs of insect damage or disease. Examine the stems and roots for any signs of rot, mold, or damage. Healthy stems should be firm and free of lesions. Many pests hide on the undersides of leaves. Check these areas for insects, eggs, or larvae.

If you find diseased or infested parts, remove them immediately to prevent spread. Consider natural remedies such as neem oil, insecticidal soap, or introducing beneficial insects to control pests. Proper spacing and pruning also help improve air circulation, reducing the chances of fungal diseases. Keep the garden clean by removing fallen leaves and debris, which can harbor pests and diseases.

Sudden wilting, stunted growth, or deformities can indicate a problem. Consistent observation helps identify these issues early. Familiarize yourself with common pests and diseases in your area. Knowing what to look for helps in quick identification and treatment.

Harvest fresh herbs then freeze for winter use

Harvesting fresh herbs and freezing them for winter use preserves their flavor, saves money, reduces waste, and adds convenience to your cooking. Be sure to collect and freeze herbs at their peak freshness to capture their best flavor and aroma!

Harvest herbs in the morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day. This is when their flavor is most concentrated. Pick leaves from healthy, pest-free plants. Avoid any that are yellowed or damaged. Rinse the herbs gently to remove any dirt or insects. Pat them dry with a paper towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess water.

Prepare for Freezing: There are several methods to freeze herbs:

Dried whole leaves: Spread the washed and dried leaves on a baking sheet and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer the leaves to an airtight container or freezer bag.

Frozen as cubes: Chop the herbs and place them in ice cube trays. Fill the trays with water or olive oil and freeze. Once solid, transfer the herb cubes to freezer bags.

Purees: Blend the herbs with a small amount of water or oil to make a paste. Freeze the paste in ice cube trays and store the cubes in freezer bags.

Label your containers or bags with the type of herb and the date of freezing. Store them in the freezer for easy access throughout the winter.

By harvesting your own herbs, you avoid the cost of buying fresh or dried herbs during the winter. Having a ready supply of frozen herbs means you can easily add flavor to your dishes without needing to run to the store or buy fresh herbs out of season.

Monitor mulch regularly

Monitoring mulch by maintaining the right thickness, checking for pests, managing moisture levels, and refreshing mulch as needed, can maximize the benefits of mulch for your plants and soil. Regular monitoring helps create a stable environment for your garden, leading to better growth and resilience during the hot summer months.

Mulch helps the soil retain moisture by reducing evaporation. This is particularly important in August when temperatures are high and the soil can dry out quickly. Mulch acts as an insulating layer, keeping the soil cooler during the hot days of August. This protects plant roots from extreme temperature fluctuations. A good layer of mulch prevents weed seeds from germinating by blocking sunlight. This reduces competition for water and nutrients with your plants.

It’s important to ensure that there is always a sufficient layer (2-3 inches) to maintain its benefits. Thin mulch may not effectively retain moisture, regulate temperature, or suppress weeds.

Use a rake to periodically check the thickness of your mulch layer. Add more mulch if it has thinned out. Add a new layer of mulch if the existing one is breaking down too much. This helps maintain its effectiveness.

Start planning for spring-blooming plants

Starting to plan for spring-blooming plants in August is crucial for a successful garden. It ensures you plant at the optimal time, get the best selection of plants, prepare your soil, and design an attractive landscape.

Many spring-blooming plants, such as tulips, daffodils, and crocuses, need to be planted in the fall. Planning in August allows you to prepare and plant bulbs at the right time for optimal growth. Early planning also gives you time to enrich your soil with compost and other nutrients, ensuring a healthy growing environment for your spring plants.

To plan your next spring garden, look up information on various spring-blooming plants to decide which ones you want to include in your garden. Consider factors like bloom time, color, height, and care requirements. Make a timeline for when to plant each type of bulb or seed. This helps ensure you don’t miss the ideal planting window.

August is a good time to start preparing your soil. Test the soil pH and add amendments as needed to create a fertile growing environment.

Plan where each plant will go. Consider creating groupings for maximum visual impact and to ensure plants have enough space to grow. Start buying bulbs, seeds, and any other gardening supplies you will need early. Doing this ensures you are ready to plant when the time comes.