BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM
If you’ve been savoring the fruits (or vegetables) of your spring and early summer gardening, you understand the satisfaction of homegrown produce. Don’t let the gardening season finish just yet. According to skilled gardeners, August is a good time to plant a variety of veggies that will thrive in the upcoming cooler months. Here’s a detailed guide to help you continue your gardening experience with seven crops that are ideal for planting in August.
Why August is ideal for planting
Gary Pilarchik, author of Grow an Edible Landscape, highlights the advantages of late-summer planting. “The best thing about planting vegetables in August is that almost everything can be direct seeded into the soil,” he says. “This is the most inexpensive way to grow plants for food. The warmth of the soil and the heat of the summer helps to speed up germination and early plant growth.”
Important tips for direct sowing
Pilarchik recommends having a good supply of water during the beginning phases. “The top 2 inches of soil can heat up to 100°F during summer days. Watering every day for 10-14 days ensures the plants will germinate, not ‘burn’ up, and establish deeper roots.” Following this period, he suggests modifying watering frequency according to the weather.
Summer squashes, cucumbers, and beans
Many gardeners may think it is too late to grow summer squash, cucumbers, and beans, which are generally planted in May and June. However, Pilarchik promises that if your area does not get frost until October, there is still plenty of time. “Many summer squash and zucchini will mature 35 days after germination. Cucumbers and beans can be ready in as little as 45 days.”
Pilarchik also recommends growing zucchini and cucumbers several times over the summer to combat pests and diseases. “Early plants are often killed by pests and diseases or the high heat of summer. Successive planting is often more successful because the life cycle of pests and diseases have passed.”
Vegetables to plant in August
1. Zucchini
Zucchini grows best in broad sunlight and well-drained, organic-rich soil. The Seed Collection recommends spreading zucchini seeds 4/5 inches deep and 20-24 inches apart. Maintain moisture without overwatering. “Water the plants in the early morning or late afternoon to prevent fungal diseases,” Pilarchik says.
Planting Zone: 3–11
2: Cucumber
Cucumbers demand full sunlight and well-drained soil. Sow seeds 2/5 inch deep, 16-24 inches apart. Germination usually takes 4-10 days. Keep the soil wet but not saturated.
Planting Zone: 4–11
3: Carrots
Carrots thrive in well-drained, sandy soil. Sally Allsopp, founder of All That Grows, advises, “Water your carrot bed regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.” Thin seedlings to avoid overcrowding.
Planting zone: 4-8
4. Beets
Beets grow quickly and can be planted for a fall harvest. Sow seeds approximately 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart. Thin seedlings after they have developed their first set of leaves.
Planting zone: 2–10
5: Lettuce
Lettuce grows quickly and is great for staggered planting. Sow seeds ¼ inch deep, 8-12 inches apart. To promote seed germination, make sure the soil is fine and granular.
Planting zone: 4–9
6. Kale
Kale is a sturdy vegetable that needs direct sunlight and well-drained soil. Sow seeds ½ inch deep and 16-24 inches apart. Water weekly and mulch to keep the soil moist.
Planting zone: 7–9
7. Peas
Peas flourish in cooler climates. Plant them 70–90 days before the first frost. Pilarchik suggests using a shade cloth to protect young seedlings from the summer sun.
Planting zone: 3–11
More tips for a successful August garden
Using shade cloth can greatly boost germination and growth. “A shade cloth will keep the soil and plant roots cooler during August, and cooler roots mean better growth,” according to Pilarchik. When temperatures approach 90°F, shade cloths can be especially useful.
Experiment with planting times and keep notes to improve your strategy each year. “The best way to figure out when to plant these crops in August is to give it a try and take notes,” Pilarchik says. This trial-and-error strategy can help you adjust your gardening schedule for higher harvests in the future.
Experience the joy of gardening
With these professional recommendations and a variety of veggies to plant, August may be a productive month for gardeners. “August for me is like starting a new summer and fall garden at the same time,” Pilarchik says. So, grab your gardening tools and reap the benefits of growing your own produce far into the fall.
