August is an exciting time for gardeners! Even though summer is slowly coming to an end, you can’t help but feel excited about everything that fall has to offer. This gorgeous month is also the perfect time to plant a variety of different flowers and vegetables that thrive in the late summer and early fall days. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or a complete newbie, this article will guide you through the process of selecting and planting the perfect additions to your garden. From gorgeous and vivacious flowers to delicious and juicy vegetables, here’s what to plant in August.
Late Summer Flowers
Keep your garden blooming with a selection of late-summer flowers that add vibrant colors and fragrant scents. August is the perfect time to plant annuals like marigolds, zinnias, and sunflowers. These flowers thrive in warm weather and will bring a burst of color to your garden. The cheerful blooms will not only brighten up your outdoor space but also attract pollinators, such as butterflies and bees, creating a lively and beautiful atmosphere.
Herbs for Delicious Fall Meals
August is an excellent time to start an herb garden or expand your existing one. Plant herbs like basil, parsley, dill, and cilantro to add fresh flavors to your culinary creations. These aromatic herbs not only enhance the taste of your dishes but also provide a wealth of health benefits. Snip a few leaves to garnish your salads, season your sauces, or infuse your homemade teas for a delightful and aromatic experience. With herbs readily available in your garden, you’ll have the perfect ingredients to elevate your cooking to new heights.
Fall Vegetables
Get a head start on your fall harvest by planting a variety of vegetables that thrive in cooler temperatures. August is the perfect time to sow seeds or transplant seedlings of crops such as lettuce, spinach, kale, and radishes. These leafy greens and root vegetables love the milder weather of early fall. So by planting them now, you’ll ensure a bountiful harvest of nutritious and delicious produce. From crisp salads to hearty soups, these fall vegetables will provide you with a fresh and healthy culinary experience.
Perennials for Long-lasting Beauty
If you’re looking to add some long-lasting beauty to your garden, consider planting perennials in August. Perennials are plants that come back year after year, bringing joy and color to your outdoor space. Choose varieties like coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and asters. These hardy plants will establish their roots before winter and provide you with beautiful blooms for years to come. Their enduring presence will add depth and charm to your garden. But also add a sense of hospitality to your outdoor space.
Fall-blooming Bulbs
Prepare for a stunning display of flowers in the coming fall by planting fall-blooming bulbs. August is the perfect time to plant bulbs such as crocuses, daffodils, and tulips. These bulbs require a period of dormancy before they burst into bloom. So planting them in late summer allows them to establish their root systems and be ready for their grand entrance when the temperatures cool down. The anticipation of these beautiful flowers will keep you excited throughout the season.
Cool-season Herbs
In addition to the classic culinary herbs, August is an ideal time to plant cool-season herbs that thrive in the milder temperatures of fall. Add herbs like chives, thyme, and sage to your garden for a year-round supply of flavorful and aromatic ingredients. These herbs are hardy and can withstand colder temperatures, making them perfect for enjoying fresh flavors well into the cooler months. Imagine stepping outside and snipping some fresh herbs to add a burst of flavor to your fall soups, stews, and roasted vegetables.