August might feel like the tail end of gardening season, but don’t pack up your tools just yet. With the right crop choices, you can sow seeds in August and still harvest fresh, homegrown produce before the first frost.
The key is selecting fast-growing, cool-tolerant plants that mature quickly and thrive in shortening daylight. Whether you have a backyard garden, raised beds, or containers, there are still plenty of opportunities to grow in August — especially if you want a final burst of homegrown flavor before winter.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly which crops to plant in August, why they work, and how to get the most from your late-season garden.
Why Plant in August?
While spring and early summer are the traditional planting times, August planting offers unique advantages:
- Cooler nights reduce heat stress on young seedlings
- Fewer pests like aphids, beetles, and caterpillars
- Less watering needed thanks to lower evaporation
- Quick crops can finish before frost
- Better soil conditions after summer’s heat breaks down organic matter
August is also perfect for succession planting — replacing crops you already harvested, like garlic, onions, or early beans.
What to Consider Before Planting in August
Before you start sowing, check your:
1. First Frost Date
Know the average first frost date in your area. Count backwards from that date using the “days to maturity” on seed packets.
2. Soil Temperature
While the air may cool, soil stays warm in August — ideal for germination. Raised beds and containers warm faster than in-ground plots.
3. Sunlight Hours
As days get shorter, growth slows. Choose crops that mature in under 60 days and tolerate lower light conditions.
4. Water Availability
Late summer heat still demands consistent moisture. Use mulch and water in the morning to prevent evaporation.
12 Fast-Growing Crops to Plant in August
1. Radishes (20–30 Days)
Radishes are one of the fastest crops you can grow. Sow directly into well-drained soil and harvest in just 3 to 4 weeks. Choose varieties like ‘Cherry Belle’ or ‘French Breakfast’ for cooler tolerance.
2. Leaf Lettuce (30–50 Days)
Loose-leaf lettuces like ‘Black Seeded Simpson’ grow quickly and can be harvested leaf by leaf. They thrive in cooler temperatures and can even tolerate light frost with protection.
3. Spinach (35–45 Days)
Spinach loves cooler weather and becomes sweeter as nights cool down. Sow thickly and harvest baby leaves in just three weeks or allow full heads to form.
4. Arugula (30–40 Days)
Fast and peppery, arugula germinates quickly and grows well even in partial shade. Successive sowings every 2 weeks will provide a steady supply into fall.
5. Turnips (40–55 Days)
Both roots and greens are edible. Turnips planted in August grow sweeter in cool weather and are ready to harvest in under 2 months.
6. Kale (50–60 Days)
Hardy and resilient, kale improves in flavor after a light frost. Baby kale leaves can be picked earlier for salads, or allow full growth for smoothies and sautés.
7. Mustard Greens (30–50 Days)
Fast-growing and flavorful, mustard greens are ideal for fall planting. Sow seeds thinly and harvest as baby greens or full heads.
8. Green Onions / Scallions (50–60 Days)
These mild alliums mature quickly and can be harvested at various stages. Direct sow in beds or containers for a steady late-season crop.
9. Beets (50–60 Days)
Beets planted in August produce sweet, tender roots and nutrient-rich greens. They tolerate cooler soil and are easy to grow in rows or containers.
10. Bush Beans (50–60 Days)
Choose fast-maturing bush varieties like ‘Contender’ or ‘Provider’. Beans don’t love frost, so start them early in August and cover if needed.
11. Cilantro (30–50 Days)
This herb bolts quickly in summer, but thrives when planted in late August. Cooler weather extends its growing season, and you can harvest both leaves and seeds.
12. Pak Choi / Bok Choy (45–60 Days)
Asian greens grow fast and love cool temperatures. Start seeds in August for a fresh fall stir-fry crop.
Pro Tip: Use Row Covers or Cold Frames
As September approaches and nights cool, extend your growing season with:
- Floating row covers – protect against early frost
- Cold frames or plastic tunnels – trap heat for longer growth
- Cloche domes – for individual plants like lettuce or herbs
These tools help you stretch your August plantings well into October — and even beyond in mild climates.
Best Practices for August Planting
✔ Refresh Your Soil
After summer crops, amend beds with compost or aged manure to restore nutrients.
✔ Use Mulch
Conserve moisture and regulate temperature with a layer of straw or shredded leaves.
✔ Water Consistently
Even short-season crops need even moisture. Don’t let soil dry out completely during germination.
✔ Watch for Pests
Late-season insects like flea beetles or aphids can still damage young plants. Use neem oil or diatomaceous earth if needed.
✔ Succession Plant Every 2 Weeks
Especially for greens like arugula, lettuce, or radishes — keep sowing small batches to enjoy a rolling harvest.
What Not to Plant in August
Avoid long-season crops like:
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplant
- Corn
- Winter squash
These won’t mature in time unless you live in a tropical climate or have greenhouse protection.
FAQs
Can I really plant seeds in August?
Yes — many leafy greens, root crops, and herbs thrive in late summer and early fall. Just choose fast-growing varieties.
Do I need to start seeds indoors in August?
No — most August crops can be direct-sown into garden beds or containers. Just ensure the soil stays moist for germination.
What’s the latest I can plant in my region?
It depends on your frost date. Use seed packets to count backward and ensure your crop has enough time to mature.
Can I grow anything in containers this late?
Absolutely. Arugula, lettuce, spinach, and radishes grow beautifully in containers — even on balconies or patios.
Final Thoughts
August might mark the end of summer, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your garden. With the right planning and crop selection, you can enjoy fresh harvests well into fall — and make the most of every last growing day.
So don’t let empty beds sit idle. Pick a few fast-growers, sow them today, and watch your garden thrive well beyond the summer sun.