Most plants grow best when temperatures are high during the hottest months of summer. But when you think that you’ve enjoyed all the fruits of your labor for the year, you’ll be happy to discover that many August plants will thrive and continue to grow late into the season.
From short-season veggies and fruits to fast-growing plants, there’s an abundance of options to choose from that you can enjoy from August through the fall. But to keep things simple, this guide has compiled the best five flowers and five vegetables to grow in August. You’ll also discover a few tips and tricks for planting along the way to help you get started.
Table of Contents
10 Best August Plants
1. Marigolds
Known for their gold and copper hues, marigolds are ideal for creating a colorful and inviting fall garden. They are a sturdy and stunning annual and will continue growing until the first hard frost, making them an excellent addition to your August plant selection. They also grow well in containers, so you can easily decorate your patio or move them indoors to ensure they last past the first frost.
2. Black-Eyed Susans
Black-eyed Susans are one of the easiest plants to grow and sprout very quickly. The bright yellow color works well through spring and fall, adding a bright and cheery touch to your garden. And if you plant a perennial black-eyed Susan by August, there’s a good chance they’ll return next year and produce all summer and fall.
3. Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums, also known as mums, are a classic choice for fall gardens. They come in plenty of different colors to suit your fancy and can grow big enough to fill a plot in your garden or a large container. Plus, they will return for next year’s garden if planted by August and can properly establish their roots.
4. Snapdragons
Snapdragons are a unique addition to your garden, featuring plenty of blossoms and a wide array of colors. They do fine in cool weather, so you can expect them to last well into the fall season. These annuals are also low-maintenance and attract pollinators, so they’ll bring nothing but color and joy to your backyard.
5. Irises
Irises are a hardy perennial and require minimal care, preferring shaded areas and moist soil. They can also grow up to four feet tall, adding height and dimension to your flourishing August plants and garden. Plus, there are over 300 species to choose from, so there’s plenty of color and variety to appeal to your space.
6. Cabbage
From making coleslaw to filling dumplings, cabbage is a great addition to any garden. It’s also easy to grow year-round, though spring cabbage should be sown in early August and transplanted by October so you can see production by the next spring. It’s also easy to care for, harvest, store, and adds loads of nutrients to a wide array of meals.
7. Radish
Known for growing uber fast, radishes are a delicious and gratifying addition to your garden. They take only about 30 days to produce, meaning you’ll still be able to plant them and enjoy the fruits of your labor in August. Radish plants also thrive alongside plenty of other plants, making them a low-maintenance and rewarding option.
8. Spinach
If you’re looking to add more leafy greens to your diet, you’ll be happy to hear that spinach is one of the best August plants. It survives well in the cold and will continue growing throughout the fall, especially if you keep it in a shady area with moist soil. It is best to plant in cool weather and will thrive in the early spring, autumn, or winter.
9. Carrots
Carrots are the ideal side dish to all your summer BBQ meals, but they can also be grown through the fall since they only take about 50 to 60 days to mature. They can also be grown in containers and brought indoors when it gets too cold out. Plus, they enjoy nitrogen-rich soil, so you can mulch with straw, which is nitrogen-rich, for added benefits and easy care.
10. Kale
Like spinach, kale thrives in the cold weather and will produce within only two months of planting. It’s also cheap, nutritious, and super fast-growing. Plus, you can add it to any dish throughout the year to ensure greens are included in your diet. You also may be in for a surprise as it may return to your garden next year!
Get to Planting!
Now that you know all about the best August plants, you’re set to prepare your tools and gather your seeds to ensure you make the most of your garden throughout the summer and fall. From flowers to veggies, there are plenty of fast-growing, low-maintenance August plants to add to your garden.
Will you be planting any of these plants in your backyard? Let us know below! And if you’re looking for more veggies and herbs to grow once the cooler weather approaches, check out this guide!
Happy Gardening
