what to plant in august in california

3 min read 23-12-2024

August in California offers a unique gardening opportunity, bridging the gap between summer's heat and the approaching autumn. Depending on your specific region – from the coastal fog to the inland valleys – your choices will vary. But with a little planning, you can enjoy a vibrant and productive garden throughout the late summer and into fall. This guide will help you choose the perfect plants for your August California garden.

Choosing the Right Plants for Your California Microclimate

California's diverse geography means that "August planting" looks different in various regions. Before diving into specific plant suggestions, consider your specific microclimate:

Coastal Areas: Expect cooler temperatures, fog, and consistent breezes. Plants need to tolerate these conditions.
Inland Valleys: Experience hot, dry summers. Water-wise plants are crucial.
Mountain Regions: Cooler temperatures and shorter growing seasons will influence your plant selections.

Understanding your region's unique characteristics will greatly improve your success.

Vegetables to Plant in August in California

August offers a chance to plant cool-season crops that will thrive in the cooler temperatures of fall.

Cool-Season Vegetables

Lettuce: Various lettuce varieties, including loose-leaf and butterhead, tolerate cooler temperatures and do well with shorter daylight hours.
Spinach: A robust cool-season green that provides ample nutrients.
Kale: Another hardy green, kale can withstand light frosts.
Broccoli: Plant broccoli starts for a fall harvest.
Carrots: Plant carrot seeds for a later harvest.
Radishes: Quick-growing and perfect for a fall crop.
Beets: Plant beet seeds for a late-season harvest.

Tips for Success with August Vegetable Planting

Start seeds indoors: For a head start, begin seeds indoors a few weeks before planting outside. This helps them establish strong root systems.
Choose the right location: Ensure adequate sunlight – at least six hours daily – for optimal growth.
Water regularly: Consistent watering is key, especially during hotter days. Mulching helps retain soil moisture.

Flowers to Plant in August in California

August presents an opportunity to plant both annuals for immediate color and perennials for long-term beauty.

Annual Flowers for a Burst of Color

Calendula: These cheerful, daisy-like flowers are heat-tolerant and attract pollinators.
Nasturtiums: These edible flowers add a peppery zest to salads and are beautiful in the garden.
Zinnias: Vibrant and long-blooming, zinnias are a summer and fall favorite.

Perennials for Lasting Beauty

California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica): A native California wildflower that thrives in warm, dry conditions.
Salvia: Many salvia varieties tolerate heat and attract hummingbirds.
Lavender: Fragrant and beautiful, lavender is a classic California choice.

Tips for Successful Flower Planting

Amend the soil: Improve drainage and fertility by adding compost before planting.
Space plants appropriately: Allow enough space for proper air circulation and growth.
Deadhead spent flowers: Regularly remove faded blooms to encourage more flowers.

Herbs for August Planting

Many herbs thrive in California's August climate. Consider planting:

Basil: A summer staple that continues to produce leaves even into the fall (with some protection from frost).
Rosemary: This drought-tolerant herb is a culinary and ornamental delight.
Sage: Another heat-tolerant herb with lovely gray-green foliage.
Thyme: A low-growing, spreading herb that thrives in well-drained soil.

Preparing Your Garden for August Planting

Before planting, take these steps:

Clear out spent plants: Remove any plants that have finished blooming or are showing signs of decline.
Amend the soil: Improve soil structure and fertility by adding compost or other organic matter.
Water deeply: Ensure the soil is adequately moist before planting.

What Not to Plant in August in California

Avoid planting heat-sensitive plants like many vegetables (except cool season ones mentioned above) that prefer cooler temperatures, as the August heat may stress them.

By carefully considering your region and selecting the right plants, you can enjoy a beautiful and productive garden throughout August and beyond. Happy gardening!