Sow these 7 vegetables in August for a generous autumn yield
As the summer months draw to a close, it's time to prepare the garden for a bountiful fall harvest. Here are some vegetables and plants that are ideal for planting in August, suitable for many temperate regions.
Leafy Greens
Spinach
Plant spinach approximately two months before the first frost date. This cold-tolerant plant prefers cooler temperatures and grows well in soil that's not too hot. Spinach can be grown in containers, making it a great option for cooler climates. For the sweetest, crunchiest leaves, plant spinach 1/4 inch deep and three inches apart in even rows, keeping the soil moist.
Kale
Kale is a hardy leafy green that can be planted in August for a healthy harvest throughout the mid-fall and even into the winter. Plant kale 1/4 inch deep and three inches apart in even rows, keeping the soil moist for the sweetest, crunchiest leaves. Fertilizer can be applied for healthy growth, and placing mulch around the base of the plants can create a protective layer between the soil and the leaves.
Chicory, Endive, Radicchio
These leafy greens prefer cooler weather and need consistent moisture as they establish. Sow seeds directly into the ground in a well-prepared, fertile bed with good drainage. Plant seeds about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep and space them according to packet instructions (usually 6-12 inches apart).
Mustard Greens (Green in Snow, Mizuna, Mibuna, Purple Frills, Red Mustard)
These leafy greens grow quickly and do well if sown in late summer for a fall harvest. Sow seeds thinly in rows or broadcast in fertile, moist soil. Cover lightly with soil and keep moist.
Turnips
Turnips are an underrated choice for the vegetable garden, offering quick results in cooler weather and are recommended to be planted in late summer for a fall harvest. Turnips will be sweeter and more tender, as well as better protected from pests which die off during the autumn.
Radishes
Radishes can reach full maturity in as little as 21 days and are a great option for a quick harvest in August. Since radishes grow underground, it is important to till the soil at least 8 inches deep before planting to ensure that it is free of debris that might hinder growth.
Hearty Greens and Other Vegetables
Lettuce
Lettuce is frost-tolerant and prefers cooler temperatures. Lettuce can be grown closer together than firm-headed types, and it may be beneficial to plant it next to a taller species for shade during the hottest parts of the day. Lettuce has a quick maturing timeline of just four to five weeks and can be planted in late August for a crop in late September and early October.
Beetroot
Beets can mature quickly if sown in August for fall harvesting. Sow seeds directly into well-tilled soil about 1 inch deep, spaced 2-3 inches apart in rows about 12 inches apart. Keep the soil moist and thin seedlings as they grow to avoid overcrowding.
Potatoes
Plant seed potatoes (small chunks with eyes) in loose, well-draining soil about 4 inches deep and spaced 12 inches apart in rows 2-3 feet apart. Hill soil around growing plants as shoots emerge. Potatoes planted in August mature in fall, just in time for harvest before frost.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers can be planted in August for a harvest by late September, as they love hot weather and sunny days. Cucumbers should be sown 1/2 inch deep and 6 inches apart in an area with full sun. A cage or trellis can be useful to provide support and maximize volume.
August is the beginning of fall's bounty for gardeners, not just the culmination of the summer growing season. By following these general planting depths, spacing, and moisture guidelines in August, these vegetables and potatoes can be successfully grown for a fall harvest in many temperate regions. Happy gardening!
- Incorporating spinach, kale, and other leafy greens into your lifestyle, such as chicory, endive, radicchio, mustard greens, and even lettuce, is ideal, as they thrive when planted in August for a bountiful harvest during fall and early winter.
- Additionally, for a diverse home-and-garden setup, consider planting hearty vegetables like turnips, radishes, beetroot, and even potatoes in August, as they mature in cooler weather, providing a delightful array of food options come fall.
