As the sun-drenched days of August grace the northern hemisphere, gardeners are presented with a golden opportunity to continue their gardening journey and make the most of the abundant warmth and sunlight. August signifies the height of summer, and while the season may be winding down, the gardening possibilities are far from over.
August gardening offers a unique blend of planting options, ranging from crops that will yield an abundant harvest before the first frost to flowers that will infuse your landscape with bursts of vibrant color. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or limited space on a balcony or patio, August invites you to indulge in the pleasures of gardening and create a sanctuary that delights the senses.
On this page, we will explore a diverse array of plants that thrive when planted in August, allowing you to extend the beauty and productivity of your garden well into the fall.
Now is the perfect moment to gather your gardening tools, roll up your sleeves, and immerse yourself in the joys of August planting. Let’s explore the possibilities and unlock the secrets to a successful late-summer garden that will dazzle your senses and bring you closer to nature’s wonders.
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What to Plant Indoors in August
In the northern hemisphere, August is typically a time when gardeners focus more on outdoor planting due to the favorable weather conditions. However, there are still some plants that you can successfully grow indoors during this month. Here are a few options for indoor planting in August:
Herbs: Start herb seeds indoors in August to have a fresh supply of flavorful herbs throughout the year. Popular choices include basil, parsley, cilantro, dill, mint, and chives.
Leafy Greens: Some leafy greens can be grown indoors during August. Consider planting varieties like lettuce, spinach, kale, or Swiss chard in containers or hydroponic systems.
Microgreens: Sow microgreen seeds indoors in August for a quick and nutritious harvest. Opt for fast-growing varieties such as radishes, broccoli, kale, or mustard greens.
Scallions: Grow scallions or green onions indoors by planting the bulb or root ends in a container filled with potting soil. They will continue to grow and provide fresh greens for your culinary delights.
Aromatic Flowers: Start seeds of fragrant flowers indoors in August for later transplanting outdoors or enjoying their blooms indoors. Consider varieties like lavender, sweet peas, or scented geraniums.
Dwarf Vegetables: Certain compact or dwarf vegetable varieties can be grown indoors in August. Look for compact tomatoes, peppers, or eggplants that are specifically bred for container gardening.
Succulents and Cacti: Succulents and cacti thrive in warm, dry conditions, making them suitable for indoor environments. Explore different varieties and create a mini desert garden indoors.
Remember to provide adequate light, water, and the right potting soil for the specific needs of each plant. Supplementing natural light with grow lights can be beneficial, especially as the days start to get shorter. While August is primarily focused on outdoor gardening, these indoor planting options allow you to continue nurturing your green thumb and enjoy the beauty and benefits of plants indoors.
What to Plant Outdoors in August
In the northern hemisphere, August is a prime time for outdoor gardening as the summer season reaches its peak. The warm weather and longer days provide favorable conditions for a variety of plants to flourish. Here are some plants that you can plant outdoors in August:
Fall Vegetables: August is the perfect time to start planting vegetables that will thrive in the cooler temperatures of fall. Consider crops such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, carrots, radishes, beets, and Swiss chard.
Herbs: Planting herbs in August ensures a fresh supply of aromatic flavors. Popular choices include basil, parsley, cilantro, dill, thyme, oregano, rosemary, and sage. They can be grown in garden beds, containers, or herb gardens.
Salad Greens: Sow seeds of lettuce, spinach, arugula, and other salad greens in August. These fast-growing crops will provide you with fresh, crisp leaves for your salads and sandwiches.
Root Vegetables: Plant root vegetables like turnips, rutabagas, parsnips, and potatoes in August. These crops develop their flavors during the cooler months, making them perfect for fall and winter harvests.
Flowering Annuals: Add bursts of color to your garden with flowering annuals like marigolds, zinnias, petunias, cosmos, and sunflowers. Planting them in August ensures a vibrant and cheerful display in the coming weeks.
Perennials: August is an excellent time to plant perennial flowers, shrubs, and trees. Choose varieties that are well-suited to your climate and garden conditions. These plants will establish their roots before winter and provide beauty for years to come.
Fall Bulbs: Prepare for a stunning spring display by planting fall bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, crocuses, and hyacinths in August. They require a period of cold dormancy and will reward you with beautiful blooms in the following season.
Vines: Consider planting climbing vines like cucumbers, beans, and indeterminate tomatoes in August. Provide support structures for them to climb and enjoy a late-summer harvest.
Cool-Season Annuals: Some cool-season annuals can be planted in August for a fall display. Pansies, violas, and snapdragons are great choices that can tolerate cooler temperatures.
Cover Crops: If you have empty garden beds or areas that won’t be used for a while, consider planting cover crops like clover, vetch, or rye. These crops help improve soil fertility, prevent erosion, and suppress weeds.
Remember to provide adequate water, mulch to conserve moisture, and regular care to help your plants thrive in the summer heat. August offers an exciting opportunity to expand your garden, extend the growing season, and enjoy the rewards of your outdoor space.
Looking for a Different Month?
Do you want to learn what to plant indoors and outdoors in a different month?
Month by month guide for planting indoors and outdoors in July.
Month by month guide for planting indoors and outdoors in September.