Welcome to UF/IFAS' guide on what to plant in August! As summer starts to wane and temperatures begin to cool, it's the perfect time to start planning your autumn garden. We've gathered expert advice from University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences to help you make the most of this season's gardening opportunities.
With August being the peak of hurricane season in Florida and other parts of the Southeast, it's important to choose plants that can withstand strong winds and heavy rainfall. Additionally, selecting plants that are native or adaptive to your region will helpensure their long-term success. Let's dive into the best plants to incorporate into your garden this August.
Annual Flowers for Instant Color
Adding annual flowers to your garden in August can provide a quick pop of color and attract pollinators to your landscape. These plants complete their life cycle within a single year, allowing you to change your garden's look seasonally.
When selecting annuals, consider the USDA plant hardiness zone for your region. This information can be found on the UF/IFAS website. Choose varieties that are well-suited to your area's climate and soil conditions.
Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)
Marigolds are an excellent choice for hot and humid August weather. They require full sun and well-draining soil, making them ideal for Florida's sandy soils. Their vibrant yellow, orange, and red blooms attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings.
To incorporate marigolds into your garden, space them 10-12 inches apart in beds or containers. Keep the soil consistently moist but be careful not to overwater, as marigolds are drought-tolerant once established.
Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus)
Nasturtiums are another heat-loving annual that thrives in Florida's summer weather. Their trailing vines and colorful flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow make them perfect for hanging baskets, containers, or mixed borders.
Like marigolds, nasturtiums prefer full sun and require well-draining soil. Allow them to self-seed by letting some plants go to seed, which will provide a free supply of nasturtiums the following year.
Vegetables for Fall Harvest
August is the perfect time to plant cool-season vegetables, as temperatures begin to drop and daytime heat becomes less intense. These crops will provide a bountiful harvest throughout the fall and even into winter in milder climates.
When planting vegetables, ensure you provide proper spacing, compost, and consistent moisture to encourage strong, productive plants. Keep in mind that some vegetables, like tomatoes, may still be susceptible to heat damage in August, so prioritize heat-tolerant crops.
Leafy Greens
Spinach (Spinacia oleracea), lettuce (Lactuca sativa), and kale (Brassica oleracea) are cool-season staples that thrive in fall gardens. Plant them in full sun or partial shade, spacing plants 6-12 inches apart, depending on the variety.
As they grow, leafy greens will benefit from regular fertilizer and consistent watering. To protect against pests like slugs and snails, create a physical barrier around your greens using cuivre (copper) or diatomaceous earth.
Root Vegetables
Root vegetables like carrots (Daucus carota), beets (Beta vulgaris), and radishes (Raphanus sativus) can be sown directly into the garden in August. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun, with consistent moisture throughout their growing season.
Carrots and beets can take up to 70-90 days to mature, while radishes typically take only 20-30 days. To optimize your harvest, stagger plantings every two weeks for a continuous supply of root vegetables.
As you plan and plant your August garden, remember that patient observation and care are key to a successful landscape. By following UF/IFAS' guidance and remaining attuned to your plants' needs, you'll create a beautiful and productive garden that enhances your outdoor living spaces. Embrace the cooler temperatures and abundant rainfall of the coming season, and enjoy the rewards of your labor as you harvest the fruits of your labor throughout the fall months.