August is an excellent month to plant vegetables and herbs! The weather is still warm, which helps seeds germinate and grow quickly. Additionally, the soil is warmer compared to spring, providing an ideal environment for root development.

One advantage of planting in August is the reduced threat of pests. Many insects that attack young plants are less active by late summer, giving your crops a better chance to thrive without heavy pesticide use. Also, the cooler nights of August can be beneficial for certain plants that prefer cooler temperatures, such as leafy greens.

The days are getting shorter, which can help prevent some plants from bolting. Bolting is when plants produce flowers and seeds prematurely, which can affect the taste and quality of the produce. By planting in August, you can avoid this issue and enjoy a better harvest.

August planting also allows for succession planting. This means you can have multiple harvests throughout the growing season. After harvesting early crops like peas or lettuce, you can plant new crops in their place. This efficient use of garden space maximizes your yield.

Many vegetables and herbs planted in August will be ready to harvest in the cooler months, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh produce well into the fall.

What Vegetables to Plant in August

Collard Greens

Collard greens are resilient and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. Plant collard greens in August to take advantage of the warm soil, which promotes fast germination. They grow best in fertile, well-drained soil. Sow the seeds about half an inch deep and space them 18-24 inches apart to give the plants room to spread.

Collard greens are heavy feeders, so it’s essential to keep the soil rich in nutrients. Regular watering is crucial, especially during dry spells, to keep the leaves tender and flavorful. Mulching around the base of the plants helps retain moisture and keep the soil cool. By late fall, you will have a robust crop of collard greens to harvest.

Arugula

Arugula is a quick-growing leafy green that thrives in cooler weather, making late August an ideal time for planting. Sow arugula seeds directly into the garden, about a quarter-inch deep, and space them one inch apart. Rows should be about 10 inches apart to allow for proper growth and easy harvesting.

Arugula prefers well-drained soil and consistent moisture. It matures quickly, often within 30-40 days, allowing for multiple harvests before the first frost. To ensure a continuous supply, sow seeds every two weeks. Arugula leaves are best harvested when young and tender for a milder flavor.

Radish

Radishes are one of the fastest-growing vegetables, making them perfect for August planting. They grow best in loose, well-drained soil. Sow the seeds about half an inch deep and space them one inch apart. Rows should be spaced 12 inches apart.

Radishes require regular watering to develop crisp, tender roots. They mature rapidly, often within 25-30 days, making them an excellent choice for succession planting. By planting radishes in August, you can enjoy multiple harvests throughout the fall. Thinning the seedlings ensures that each plant has enough space to grow properly.

Turnip

Turnips are versatile root vegetables that do well in cooler weather. Plant turnip seeds directly in the garden in August. Sow the seeds half an inch deep and space them one inch apart. Once they sprout, thin the seedlings to 4-6 inches apart to ensure proper growth.

Turnips grow best in well-drained, fertile soil. Regular watering is crucial for developing sweet, tender roots. Turnip greens can be harvested earlier than the roots, providing a dual crop from a single planting. By planting in August, turnips can mature before the first frost, offering a hearty addition to fall meals.

Carrots

Carrots planted in August benefit from the warm soil, which speeds up germination. Choose a sunny spot with loose, sandy soil for planting. Sow the seeds about a quarter-inch deep and thin the seedlings to 2-3 inches apart. Rows should be spaced 12-18 inches apart.

Consistent moisture is vital for carrot growth, as dry soil can cause the roots to split. Carrots take longer to mature, typically 70-80 days, so planting in August ensures a late fall harvest. Thinning the seedlings is essential to prevent overcrowding and promote the development of straight, healthy roots.

Cauliflower

Cauliflower thrives in cooler temperatures, making late August ideal for planting. Start by preparing fertile, well-drained soil in a sunny location. Plant cauliflower seedlings about 18-24 inches apart in rows spaced 30 inches apart.

Cauliflower requires consistent moisture and benefits from mulching to maintain soil temperature and moisture levels. It’s a heavy feeder, so adding compost or balanced fertilizer is recommended. Cauliflower heads mature in about 55-80 days. By planting in August, you can harvest before the first frost, enjoying fresh cauliflower in the fall.

Squash

Summer squash varieties, such as zucchini, can still be planted in early August in many regions. Squash grows best in rich, well-drained soil. Sow seeds directly into the garden about one inch deep and space them 24-36 inches apart in rows 36-48 inches apart.

Squash plants require full sun and regular watering, especially during the flowering and fruiting stages. They mature quickly, often within 50-60 days, providing a late-season harvest. Ensure adequate spacing to promote airflow and prevent diseases. By planting in August, you can enjoy fresh squash well into the fall.

What Herbs to Plant in August

Basil

Basil is a popular herb that loves warm weather. Planting basil in August ensures that it will benefit from the remaining summer heat. Basil prefers well-drained, fertile soil and plenty of sunlight. Sow the seeds about a quarter-inch deep, spaced 12 inches apart. If starting with seedlings, plant them at the same depth they were in their pots.

Basil requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist. Pinching off the top leaves encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from flowering too early, which can affect the flavor. By planting in August, you can have a steady supply of fresh basil well into the fall.

Chives

Chives are hardy and can be planted in August for a continuous harvest. They grow best in well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. Sow chive seeds about a quarter-inch deep and space them 4-6 inches apart. Alternatively, you can plant chive bulbs or transplants.

Chives prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. They need regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Chives are perennial and can come back year after year if cared for properly. By planting in August, you can enjoy fresh chives throughout the fall and have a head start for the next growing season.

Cilantro

Cilantro is a cool-season herb that can be planted in August for a fall harvest. It prefers well-drained, fertile soil and full sun, though it can tolerate some shade. Sow cilantro seeds about a quarter-inch deep and space them 6-8 inches apart.

Cilantro grows quickly and is best harvested young for the most tender and flavorful leaves. Regular watering is essential to prevent bolting, which is when the plant goes to seed too quickly. Succession planting every few weeks ensures a continuous supply of fresh cilantro throughout the fall.

Dill

Dill is an easy-to-grow herb that thrives in warm weather. Planting dill in August allows it to take advantage of the remaining summer warmth. Dill prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Sow dill seeds about a quarter-inch deep and space them 12 inches apart.

Dill requires consistent moisture, especially during germination and early growth. It matures quickly, often within 40-60 days, allowing for multiple harvests before the first frost. Dill can be used fresh or dried, making it a versatile addition to any herb garden.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a hardy herb that can be planted in August for a fall harvest. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade, though it can tolerate full sun. Sow lemon balm seeds about a quarter-inch deep and space them 12-18 inches apart.

Lemon balm requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist. It is a perennial herb, meaning it can come back year after year if properly cared for. By planting in August, you can enjoy fresh lemon balm throughout the fall and have a strong start for the next growing season.

Parsley

Parsley is a versatile herb that grows well in cooler temperatures, making August a good time for planting. It prefers well-drained, fertile soil and full sun to partial shade. Sow parsley seeds about a quarter-inch deep and space them 6-8 inches apart.

Parsley seeds can take longer to germinate, often up to three weeks, so be patient. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil consistently moist. Parsley can be harvested throughout the fall, and with proper care, it can even survive mild winters, providing fresh herbs well into the colder months.

Thyme

Thyme is a hardy perennial herb that can be planted in August for a fall harvest and beyond. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Sow thyme seeds on the surface of the soil and lightly cover them, or plant thyme transplants 12 inches apart.

Once established, thyme requires minimal watering, making it a low-maintenance herb. It is drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering during dry spells. By planting thyme in August, you can enjoy its fresh leaves throughout the fall and have a well-established plant for the next growing season.

General Growing Tips for Vegetables and Herbs in August

• Opt for vegetable and herb varieties that are suitable for late summer planting. Look for varieties that mature quickly or can withstand cooler temperatures as fall approaches.

• August can be hot and dry in many regions, so it’s essential to provide consistent moisture to newly planted vegetables and herbs. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells, to ensure proper root development and plant hydration.

• Depending on your soil fertility and your plant’s specific needs, consider fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer or organic amendments. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit or herb production.

• Harvest vegetables and herbs regularly to encourage continued production and prevent plants from becoming overgrown or going to seed prematurely. Regular harvesting also ensures that you can enjoy your garden’s bounty at its peak freshness.

• Consider planting additional crops in intervals to extend your harvest throughout the fall. Succession planting involves sowing seeds or transplanting seedlings at staggered intervals to ensure a continuous supply of fresh produce.

Planting vegetables and herbs in August can be rewarding if done right. By following these tips, you can maximize the success of your late summer vegetable and herb garden, ensuring a bountiful harvest well into the fall.