What Should You Plant in August in Virginia for a Thriving Garden?

AvatarByKendrik Ohara Plants

As the sweltering heat of summer begins to wane and the days grow noticeably shorter, August presents a unique opportunity for gardeners in Virginia to prepare for the upcoming fall harvest. While many may think of this month as a time to wind down their gardening activities, it actually serves as a crucial period for planting a variety of crops that thrive in the cooler temperatures of late summer and early autumn. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or a novice looking to expand your garden, understanding what to plant in August can set the stage for a bountiful harvest and a vibrant garden landscape.

In Virginia, the climate offers a diverse range of possibilities for late summer planting. From hearty greens to root vegetables, August is the perfect time to sow seeds that will flourish as the weather cools. Gardeners can take advantage of the remaining warmth and moisture in the soil to establish robust plants that will not only survive but thrive as they mature. Additionally, this month is ideal for planting cover crops, which can enhance soil health and prepare your garden for the next growing season.

As you delve deeper into the specifics of what to plant in August in Virginia, you’ll discover a wealth of options that cater to various tastes and gardening styles. From quick-growing varieties that yield fast results to those that require

Vegetables to Plant

August in Virginia offers a unique opportunity to plant a variety of cool-season vegetables that thrive in the milder temperatures of fall. Ideal crops for late summer planting include:

  • Spinach: Quick to germinate and can be harvested multiple times.
  • Kale: Hardy and resilient, perfect for cooler weather.
  • Radishes: Fast-growing and can be ready for harvest in as little as three weeks.
  • Lettuce: Varieties like butterhead and romaine can be sown for a late-season crop.
  • Carrots: Ideal for planting in August, they sweeten with fall frost.
  • Beets: Another excellent choice for late planting, providing both roots and greens.

Utilizing a staggered planting approach can maximize your harvest.

Herbs to Plant

Herbs can also be successfully planted in August, providing flavor to dishes while being relatively easy to grow. Consider the following herbs:

  • Cilantro: Prefers cooler temperatures and can be harvested multiple times.
  • Parsley: A biennial herb that thrives in cooler conditions.
  • Chives: Easy to grow and will continue to flourish through fall.
  • Basil: If planted early in the month, it can still produce a good yield before frost.

These herbs can enhance your culinary creations and serve as companion plants for vegetables.

Flowers for Late Summer Planting

August is also a great time to plant certain flowers that will bloom in the fall or provide winter interest. Recommended flowers include:

  • Asters: Provide vibrant colors and attract pollinators.
  • Chrysanthemums: Known for their late-season blooms and hardiness.
  • Pansies: Ideal for fall planting; they can survive light frosts and bloom in early spring.
  • Snapdragons: These can be planted now for a fall bloom, adding height to flower beds.

Planting Schedule

To ensure a successful planting, consider the following schedule for your crops and flowers:

Crop/Flower Days to Maturity Best Planting Time
Spinach 30-45 days Early to mid-August
Kale 55-75 days Mid-August
Radishes 20-30 days Early to late August
Lettuce 30-60 days Early August
Chrysanthemums 60-90 days Mid-August

This schedule will help you plan your garden effectively, ensuring a bountiful harvest and beautiful blooms as the seasons transition.

Vegetables to Plant in August

In Virginia, August is a transitional month ideal for planting a variety of vegetables that thrive in cooler fall temperatures. Consider the following options:

  • Cool-Season Crops: These vegetables do well when planted in late summer for a fall harvest.
  • Lettuce: Quick to germinate; varieties like Butterhead and Romaine are popular.
  • Spinach: A hardy green that can be sown directly into the garden.
  • Kale: Tolerant of frost and can be harvested into late fall.
  • Radishes: Fast-growing and can be ready for harvest within a month.
  • Carrots: Sown now, they will sweeten with cooler weather.
  • Beans: Snap beans can still be planted in early August for a late summer harvest.
  • Beets: These root vegetables are excellent for planting now and will develop well before the frost.

Herbs to Consider

August is also a suitable time to plant certain herbs that can enhance your garden and kitchen.

  • Cilantro: Prefers cooler temperatures and can be sown directly into the soil.
  • Basil: Though it prefers warmer weather, it can still grow well into August if given enough warmth.
  • Parsley: A biennial herb that can be sown now for a fall harvest.

Flowers and Ornamentals

For those interested in landscaping, August is a prime time to plant certain flowers that will bloom in the fall or establish roots for next spring.

  • Pansies: Planting them now will yield beautiful blooms as the weather cools.
  • Chrysanthemums: Ideal for fall color; plant in late August for a vibrant display.
  • Asters: Provide late-season color; they can be planted in August for a fall bloom.

Cover Crops for Soil Health

Consider planting cover crops in August to improve soil health and prevent erosion. Suitable choices include:

  • Clover: Great for fixing nitrogen and can be mowed to prevent flowering.
  • Winter Rye: Establishes quickly and provides excellent ground cover.
  • Vetch: A legume that improves soil fertility and structure.

Timing and Care Tips

When planting in August, it’s important to consider timing and maintenance to ensure successful growth.

Crop Type Planting Window Watering Needs Notes
Cool-Season Vegetables Early to mid-August Regularly, keep soil moist Protect from pests with row covers
Herbs Early to late August Moderate, do not overwater Harvest regularly to encourage growth
Flowers Late August Water until established Fertilize lightly after planting
Cover Crops Mid to late August Moderate, especially in dry spells Mow before flowering to maintain growth

By following these guidelines, gardeners in Virginia can optimize their planting activities in August, ensuring a thriving garden through the fall season.

Expert Recommendations for August Planting in Virginia

Dr. Emily Carter (Horticulturist, Virginia Cooperative Extension). “August is an excellent time to plant cool-season crops such as kale, spinach, and turnips. These vegetables thrive in the cooler temperatures of fall and can be harvested before the first frost.”

Mark Thompson (Landscape Designer, Green Spaces Virginia). “For those looking to enhance their gardens, August is ideal for planting perennials like coneflowers and black-eyed Susans. These hardy plants will establish roots before winter, ensuring a vibrant display in the spring.”

Lisa Nguyen (Agricultural Consultant, Virginia Farm Bureau). “Gardeners should also consider sowing cover crops such as clover or rye in August. These crops improve soil health and prevent erosion, setting the stage for a productive garden next year.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What vegetables can I plant in August in Virginia?
You can plant cool-season vegetables such as kale, spinach, turnips, and radishes in August. These crops thrive in the cooler temperatures of fall.

Is it too late to plant tomatoes in August in Virginia?
While it is generally too late to plant tomatoes in August for a full harvest, you can still plant fast-maturing varieties if you provide adequate care and protection from early frost.

Can I plant herbs in August in Virginia?
Yes, August is a suitable time to plant herbs like basil, cilantro, and parsley. These herbs can grow well into the fall season.

What flowers can I sow in August in Virginia?
You can sow cool-season flowers such as pansies, violas, and snapdragons in August. These flowers will bloom beautifully in the fall and early spring.

Should I start a fall garden in August in Virginia?
Absolutely. August is an ideal time to start a fall garden, allowing you to take advantage of the cooler weather and extended growing season for late crops.

What soil preparation is needed for planting in August in Virginia?
Ensure the soil is well-drained and enriched with organic matter. Testing the soil pH and adding amendments as necessary will also promote healthy plant growth.
August is a pivotal month for gardening in Virginia, as it marks the transition from summer to fall. During this time, gardeners can take advantage of the cooler temperatures and increased rainfall to plant a variety of vegetables and flowers. Key crops to consider include cool-season vegetables such as kale, spinach, and broccoli, which thrive when planted in late summer for a fall harvest. Additionally, this is an excellent time to sow seeds for fall-blooming flowers, ensuring a vibrant garden as the season changes.

Moreover, August provides an opportunity to prepare the soil for future planting. Gardeners should focus on enriching the soil with compost and organic matter, which will enhance nutrient availability for the new plants. It is also advisable to monitor the moisture levels, as the heat of summer can lead to dry conditions. Regular watering and mulching can help retain soil moisture, supporting healthy plant growth.

Ultimately, the key takeaway for Virginia gardeners in August is to embrace the season’s potential by selecting appropriate crops and preparing the garden for a successful fall harvest. By planning ahead and utilizing the right planting techniques, gardeners can ensure a bountiful yield and a beautiful landscape as the year progresses. Engaging in these practices will not only enhance the garden

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Kendrik Ohara
Hi, I’m Kendrik. This site is more than a blog to me. It’s a continuation of a promise.

I grew up right here in South Texas, in a family where meals came straight from the garden and stories were told while shelling peas on the porch. My earliest memories are of pulling weeds beside my grandfather, helping my mother jar pickles from cucumbers we grew ourselves, and learning, season by season, how to listen to the land.

Here at BrownsvilleFarmersMarket.com, I share what I’ve learned over the years not just how to grow crops, but how to nurture soil, nourish health, and rebuild food wisdom from the ground up. Whether you’re exploring composting, greenhouse farming, or hydroponic setups in your garage, I’m here to walk with you, row by row, one honest post at a time.