best 7 Vegetables to Plant in August

As summer starts to wind down, gardeners may wonder if it’s too late to plant new crops. August is the perfect time to plant vegetables that thrive in cooler temperatures and can be harvested in the fall. Whether you have a large backyard garden or a small plot, you can still make the most of your space by selecting the right vegetables.

If you’re looking to extend your growing season, there are many vegetables to plant in August that will yield delicious results come autumn. From hardy greens to root vegetables, planting in late summer can ensure a vibrant fall harvest.

Why Plant Vegetables in August?

Planting in August might seem late to some gardeners, but this timing has unique advantages. Cooler temperatures, shorter days, and more consistent moisture create ideal growing conditions for certain crops. Fall-harvested vegetables tend to have a richer flavor due to the cool weather, which reduces plant stress and helps them develop more sugars.

Vegetables planted in August are often referred to as “cool-season” or “fall crops.” These crops prefer the milder conditions of autumn, where they grow quickly and tend to resist bolting, a process where plants prematurely go to seed in hot weather. This makes late summer the perfect opportunity to fill your garden with crops that will thrive in these conditions.

Additionally, planting in August can help prevent common summer pest problems. Many pests are less active as temperatures cool, reducing the risk of infestation for your new crops. Whether you’re planting from seeds or transplants, growing fall crops helps you make the most of your garden space, ensuring you continue harvesting fresh produce even as the days shorten.

Top Vegetables to Plant in August

1. Spinach

Spinach is a fast-growing leafy green that thrives in cooler weather, making it one of the best vegetables to plant in August. Spinach can tolerate light frosts and will often continue to grow well into late fall. Plant spinach seeds directly into your garden bed, and expect to harvest tender leaves in as little as four to six weeks.

• Planting Tip: Spinach prefers well-drained, fertile soil and partial shade to avoid bolting in late summer heat. Keep the soil moist to encourage quick germination.
• Harvesting: You can start harvesting baby leaves early or wait for mature leaves later in the season.
• Varieties to Try: ‘Bloomsdale’ or ‘Space’ are two highly recommended spinach varieties for fall planting.

2. Kale

Kale is a versatile and resilient crop that becomes sweeter when exposed to light frost. As a hardy green, kale is one of the ideal vegetables to plant for a fall harvest. Plant it in early to mid-August for a continuous harvest throughout the autumn months.

• Planting Tip: Space kale plants about 12 to 18 inches apart. Water regularly and mulch to retain soil moisture. Kale thrives in rich, well-drained soil and can survive through the first frosts.
• Harvesting: You can begin harvesting kale leaves when they are young and tender. Continue picking outer leaves, and the plant will keep producing.
• Varieties to Try: ‘Winterbor’ and ‘Lacinato’ (also known as Dinosaur Kale) are popular for fall planting, and known for their cold-hardiness.

3. Radishes

Radishes grow exceptionally fast, with many varieties ready for harvest in just 3 to 4 weeks. Planting radishes in August ensures a steady supply of crisp, peppery roots in early fall. Radishes are perfect for filling gaps in your garden, as they don’t take up much space.

• Planting Tip: Sow radish seeds directly into the soil, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Radishes prefer cool soil and consistent moisture. Make sure to keep the soil moist, as dry conditions can lead to bitter, woody radishes.
• Harvesting: Radishes are ready to harvest when they reach about the size of a marble. If left too long, they can become woody and less flavorful.
• Varieties to Try: ‘Cherry Belle’ and ‘French Breakfast’ are excellent fast-growing radish varieties for fall.

4. Carrots

Carrots are another excellent vegetable to plant in August, especially for a fall harvest. Carrots grow best in loose, well-draining soil and cooler weather enhances their sweetness. Fall carrots tend to be sweeter than those grown in summer due to the cool temperatures concentrating the natural sugars.

• Planting Tip: Sow carrot seeds directly in the garden, but ensure the soil is loose and free of rocks or heavy clumps. Carrots need deep soil to grow long and straight. Keep the soil moist for even germination.
• Harvesting: Carrots can take up to 70 days to mature. You can harvest them once they reach the desired size, but they can also be left in the ground until late fall for a sweeter flavor. The cooler temperatures in fall slow their growth, allowing for a longer harvest window.
• Varieties to Try: ‘Nantes’ and ‘Danvers Half Long’ are well-suited for fall planting due to their quick maturity and delicious flavor.

5. Beets

Beets are perfect for August planting because they can thrive in cooler temperatures and mature quickly. Both beet roots and greens are edible, making this a dual-purpose crop. Beets also store well, so you can enjoy their harvest long after they’ve been picked.

• Planting Tip: Sow beet seeds directly into the soil, about 1 inch apart, in rows spaced 12 inches apart. Beets need consistent watering to develop properly. Thin seedlings to ensure enough space for the roots to develop.
• Harvesting: Beets are ready to harvest when the roots reach about 2 inches in diameter. You can also harvest beet greens as needed for salads or sautéing.
• Varieties to Try: ‘Detroit Dark Red’ and ‘Golden Beet’ are popular choices for their flavor and ease of growing.

6. Turnips

Turnips are fast-growing root vegetables that can handle cooler temperatures and light frost, making them perfect for late summer planting. Both the roots and greens of turnips are edible, and they grow quickly, often maturing in 40-60 days.

• Planting Tip: Plant turnip seeds about ½ inch deep in well-draining soil. Water regularly and thin the plants to prevent overcrowding. Turnips benefit from consistent moisture and good air circulation to avoid diseases like mildew.
• Harvesting: Turnips mature quickly and can be harvested when the roots are about 2-3 inches in diameter. Young turnip greens can be harvested as the plant grows.
• Varieties to Try: ‘Purple Top White Globe’ and ‘Tokyo Cross’ are top varieties known for their mild flavor and tender texture.

7. Broccoli

Broccoli is a cool-season crop that can withstand light frost, making it an excellent option for late-summer planting. It grows best when the temperatures cool down, and it can be harvested well into the fall months.

• Planting Tip: Broccoli requires fertile, well-drained soil. Space plants about 18 inches apart and ensure they get full sun. Water regularly and mulch around the plants to conserve moisture.
• Harvesting: Harvest broccoli when the heads are fully formed but before the buds start to flower. Cut the main head, and the plant often produces smaller side shoots for additional harvests.
• Varieties to Try: ‘Calabrese’ and ‘Green Magic’ are popular fall broccoli varieties.

Tips for Success

• Start with Healthy Soil: August planting often coincides with the end of the growing season for many summer crops. Replenish your garden soil with compost or organic fertilizer before planting your fall vegetables. Enriching the soil gives your plants the nutrients they need to grow quickly before cooler temperatures set in.
• Water Regularly: Although August can still bring heat, fall crops need consistent moisture to thrive. Water your plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot spells. If possible, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and help prevent disease.
• Pest Control: Cooler temperatures can reduce pest problems, but keep an eye out for late-season invaders like aphids, cabbage worms, or flea beetles. Using row covers or organic insecticides can help protect your fall crops. Companion planting with flowers like marigolds or herbs like basil can also deter pests.
• Frost Protection: As the season progresses, be prepared for potential early frosts. Use row covers, cloches, or cold frames to protect tender plants and extend your harvest season well into the fall. Some vegetables, like kale and carrots, can tolerate frost and may even improve in flavor with exposure to colder temperatures.
• Extend the Season: For gardeners looking to maximize their harvest, consider using season-extending techniques like hoop houses, frost blankets, or even raised beds with plastic covers. These tools can help keep your plants growing strong into late fall or early winter.

Conclusion

Planting vegetables in August is a great way to extend your growing season and enjoy fresh produce through the fall. By choosing the right vegetables to plant for a fall harvest, you can continue to harvest delicious, nutrient-rich crops long after the heat of summer fades. From leafy greens to root vegetables, your late-season garden can be just as productive as your summer one. With a little planning and care, your garden can keep producing well into the cooler months, offering up a bounty of greens, root vegetables, and more.

So, grab your seeds, enrich your soil, and get ready for a fall filled with fresh, homegrown vegetables!