What to Plant in August

With grocery prices still rising and major federal food relief programs cut or scaled back, fall gardening offers a direct, empowering response. Local planting helps stretch household budgets, support small farms, and build food security one plot at a time.

Direct Seed Outdoors
Arugula
Beets
Spinach
Radishes
Turnips
Mustard Greens
Kale
Swiss Chard
Lettuce
Peas (early August)
Cilantro
Tatsoi
Watermelon Radish
Kohlrabi (early August only)

Use shade cloth to help cool soil and maintain moisture during germination. Mulch once seedlings are established to retain water and suppress weeds.

Start in Flats Outdoors
If you've lost seed to failed direct seeding this year—or just have a lot going on—starting above-ground crops in flats tucked into a shady spot with morning sun can help you monitor germination while conserving resources.

Transplant to Garden
Broccoli
Cabbage
Cauliflower
Brussels Sprouts
Collards

+ Everything you can direct seed right now!

To help transplants settle in during hot weather, consider shading them with cloth or by planting near taller, established crops.

Flower Transplants 

Pansies
Mums
Asters

These ornamentals add color and, in mild years, may return in early spring. A good option if you want beauty in the garden going into fall.