What to Plant in August

Do you know what fall plants we can grow in August? The warm weather of August in many places is ideal for seed germination and seedling growth. Higher soil temperatures consequently mean that seeds have a quicker germination time and stronger roots. Extending the growing season in your galvanized raised beds in August is a wise choice in warmer climates. It could let you get fresh vegetables and flowers in autumn or early winter. While, growing fall garden plants like kale, spinach, and carrots in August gives you fresh vegetables in the upcoming cold season.

Fall Vegetables to Plant in August

Here are some cool-season fall vegetables for August that. When planted in August, they can provide you with a fresh harvest in early to late fall.

• Spinach: The growth cycle takes 6-8 weeks. Keep the soil moist after sowing and avoid strong direct sunlight.
• Kale: The growth cycle of kale takes 10-14 weeks. It thrives in sunlight and well-drained soil.
• Carrots: The growth cycle takes 10-12 weeks. They thrive in loose soil.
• Radishes: The growth cycle only takes 4-6 weeks.
• Cabbage: The growth cycle takes 8-10 weeks. It prefers fertile soil and plenty of light. Pick the cabbage heads in 6 to 8 weeks after they form.
• Lettuce: The growth cycle takes 6-8 weeks, it thrives in cooler climates.

Here are some warm-season fall plants suitable for planting in August. 

• Tomatoes: With a growth cycle of about 60-90 days, tomatoes need plenty of sunlight and regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Peppers: Peppers have a growth cycle of 70-85 days, thriving in warm climates and full sun. Keep the soil moist and well-drained.
• Cucumbers: Cucumbers have a growth cycle of 50-70 days and are best planted in sunny locations with moist soil.
• Cowpeas: With a growth cycle of 60-75 days. You can start harvesting tender pods 2-3 weeks after flowering.
• Zucchini: Zucchini grows in about 50-60 days, needing plenty of sunlight and fertile soil. Harvest the fruits when they reach about 6-8 inches.
• Pumpkins: Pumpkins have a growth cycle of 90-120 days, preferring warm climates and well-drained soil.

Fall Herbs to Plant in August

By planting herbs in your fall raised bed herb garden during August, they will grow well and fast in the fall season. By the way, the best time to harvest them is in the morning when their essential oil content is at its highest, giving them maximum flavor. Here are a few herbs suitable for planting in August:

• Basil: Hot weather in August is a great time for growing basil. When planting, choose soil that drains well and provides enough sunlight. You can plant the seeds in garden beds directly or transplant seedlings from silicone seedling trays. Additionally, to encourage leaf growth, be sure to remove flower buds as soon as they appear. Only 4 to 6 weeks after planting can you begin harvesting tender leaves.
• Mint: Mint has a high adaptability and needs moist conditions avoiding over watering it though. The mint can be propagated by division or cuttings. While planting, plant it in a round raised bed to control its spread. About 90 days from planting, you can start to pick the leaves.
• Parsley: Parsley grows very well in August hence one can sow them directly on a garden bed. Harvest parsley leaves when plants reach 4-6 inches tall and as needed. And parsley can be harvested in about 6 to 8 weeks after planting.
• Thyme: Thyme prefers dry and sunny conditions and tolerates heat well. At about 6 inches high, you may harvest some tender stems to encourage more branching and growth of leaves. Harvest them in 6 to 8 weeks after planting, but for the finest flavor, wait until they are fully grown, which takes 3 to 4 months.
• Rosemary: Rosemary thrives fast in August with light soils. Start to pick the leaves in about 6 to 12 months after planting, but it's best to trim before flowering for optimal flavor.

Fall Flowers to Plant

In autumn, it is possible to have flowers in your garden by planting perennials and annuals that attract insects. Add these plants to the garden to balance the pollinators. Here are some recommendations for growing fall flowers in August.

• Echinacea: Echinacea is a hardy perennial that can continue blooming into the fall. Importantly, its vibrant flowers can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
• Rudbeckia: Known for its bright yellow flowers, Rudbeckia can continue blooming until fall. It’s great for garden aesthetics and is also pollinator-friendly. Choose a sunny, well-drained spot for planting to promote healthy growth.
• Phlox: Phlox is a perennial that showcases beautiful blooms in the fall. Its fragrant flowers can attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Ensure adequate watering and provide plenty of sunlight when planting.
• Marigold: Marigold is a perennial plant suitable for fall gardens, offering pest-repellent properties and attracting bees and butterflies. Marigolds have a long flowering period and can stay in bloom until the frost under sunny conditions.
• Vinca: Vinca is a hardy, drought-resistant annual that performs well in the fall. Its colorful flowers attract pollinators like bees. Vinca is best planted in well-drained soil and requires moderate watering.
• Calendula: Calendula is an annual plant that can continue blooming in the fall. Its flowers come in various colors and are easy to grow and maintain. Calendula attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Fall Garden Maintenance

As you transition from summer to fall, preparing the raised bed is essential before starting fall planting.

Soil Preparation

Before autumn, it is better to examine the soil and identify its pH levels and the quantities of various nutrients it has. Besides, fill some manure or compost in your garden bed.

Mulching

To preserve water, prevent weed growth, and give plants heat insulation during the cold season add a cover of straw, leaves, or wood chips to the soil surface. What's more, you could use a raised bed cover to protect the frost-sensitive fall plants

Fall Garden Maintenance

When planting in August, the first consideration should be temperature changes. As summer ends, there is a difference in daytime and nighttime temperatures, which can affect the growth of sensitive crops. Therefore, choosing resilient varieties is advisable.

Additionally, the high temperatures of summer may have dried out the soil. Before planting, ensure that the soil is moist but not overly saturated, as this helps seeds and seedlings take root. For soil selection, you can refer to the article: "The Best Soil for Raised Garden Beds."