August is the perfect month to begin planting a variety of cool-weather vegetables that will yield a bountiful harvest in the fall and even into the winter months. As your summer crops reach their peak, it’s time to look ahead and plan for your fall table. Here’s a guide to the best vegetables to plant in August for a plentiful fall harvest.
Check Your Growing Zone
Before getting started, it’s important to consider your USDA hardiness zone, as this will determine which crops you can successfully grow. Gardeners in cooler zones (3-6) can focus on leafy greens and root vegetables, often using protective measures like cold frames to extend the growing season. Those in warmer zones (7-10) may extend their summer crops into fall and the fall harvest season into winter, though care should be taken to avoid planting cool-weather crops too soon.
Preparing Your Garden
August is a great time to begin a vegetable garden, as many fall vegetables are hardy and low-maintenance. The pest population typically decreases later in the growing season. Start by preparing your soil with compost or organic matter, especially if you are planting a second crop. This replenishes nutrients and helps minimize pests and diseases.
Essential Tips for Planting in August
- Consistent Watering: August can be a dry month, so ensure consistent watering to prevent the soil from drying out.
- Mulching: Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Pest Monitoring: Keep an eye out for pests and take appropriate measures to protect your crops.
15 Vegetables to Plant in August
1. Swiss Chard
Swiss chard is not only delicious and versatile but also visually appealing with its vibrant red or yellow veins. It can be harvested as cut-and-come-again, using young leaves in salads and larger leaves in stir-fries. This crop thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil, maturing in 50-75 days.
2. Green Beans
Green beans can still be planted for a quick crop before frost. Opt for fast-growing varieties like Contender or Provider, which mature in as little as 7 weeks. These beans should be picked daily to encourage continuous production.
3. Kale
Kale is a cool-weather favorite that can be harvested in early fall or winter. It grows best in loamy, well-draining soil and can tolerate partial shade in warmer climates. Harvest the leaves young for tender greens or let them mature for a more robust flavor.
4. Carrots
Carrots are a staple fall vegetable, perfect for roasting or glazing. They require at least three months to grow, so plant them now for a fall harvest. They do best in sandy, well-draining soil with consistent moisture.
5. Lettuce
Lettuce is a cool-season crop that can be sown every two weeks until September. It prefers a sunny spot but can benefit from light shade in hotter climates. For best results, fertilize the soil with a high-nitrogen feed.
6. Radishes
Radishes are one of the fastest-growing vegetables, ready to harvest in just four weeks. They add a peppery crunch to salads and can also be pickled or roasted. They thrive in light soil and should be harvested young for the best flavor.
7. Spinach
Spinach is versatile and can be grown from late summer to early winter. It is a heavy feeder, so prepare the soil with compost or fertilizer. Harvest as a cut-and-come-again crop or cut the whole plant at the base.
8. Beets
Beets offer sweet, earthy flavors and are perfect for a variety of dishes. They can be sown in light, well-draining soil and prefer cooler temperatures. Both the root and the leaves are edible, with the leaves providing a taste similar to Swiss chard.
9. Broccoli
Broccoli can be planted in the summer for a fall harvest, especially in zones 5-8. Start seeds indoors if the weather is hot, and transplant them once temperatures cool down. Broccoli requires full sun and well-draining soil.
10. Scallions
Scallions are quick-growing and versatile, perfect for filling gaps in the garden. They are easy to grow and can be harvested in about eight weeks. They thrive in a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
11. Arugula
Arugula, also known as rocket, adds a peppery flavor to salads and other dishes. It’s easy to grow and can be harvested year-round. Plant in well-draining soil and keep it consistently moist for the best flavor.
12. Turnips
Turnips are a hearty vegetable perfect for stews and other fall dishes. Both the roots and leaves are edible, with the leaves offering a taste similar to mustard greens. They grow best in sunny spots with consistent watering.
13. Bok Choy
Bok choy is a fast-growing leafy vegetable often used in stir-fries. It prefers well-draining soil and consistent moisture. Plant in partial shade in warmer zones to prevent bolting.
14. Mustard Greens
Mustard greens add a spicy kick to dishes and are easy to grow. They prefer full sun to partial shade and need regular watering. Harvest the leaves while they are young and tender.
15. Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi is a unique vegetable with a taste similar to broccoli or turnip. Both the bulb and leaves are edible. It grows best in well-fertilized soil and should be harvested when the stem is 1-3 inches in diameter.
Final Tips for a Successful Fall Garden
As you plant your August vegetables, remember to:
- Monitor Weather Conditions: Be prepared for early frosts and protect your plants as needed.
- Use Cold Frames: Extend your growing season with cold frames or row covers.
- Practice Crop Rotation: This helps maintain soil health and reduces pest and disease problems.
With these tips and vegetable choices, you’ll enjoy a rich and rewarding harvest well into the cooler months. Happy gardening!
