what to plant in august in virginia

3 min read 25-12-2024

Meta Description: August in Virginia offers a unique gardening opportunity! Discover the best vegetables, flowers, and herbs to plant this month for a vibrant fall harvest. Learn about optimal planting times, soil preparation, and essential care tips for successful gardening in the Virginia climate. Don't miss out on this guide for a bountiful late-season garden!

Introduction: August Gardening in Virginia

August in Virginia brings warm temperatures and ample sunlight, perfect for planting certain crops for a fall harvest. While summer's heat lingers, smart gardening choices can yield satisfying results before the first frost. This guide will help Virginia gardeners choose the best plants to thrive in August's conditions. We'll cover vegetables, flowers, and herbs perfect for this time of year.

Vegetables to Plant in August in Virginia

Many vegetables are better suited for planting in the cooler months of spring and fall. August provides the perfect opportunity for a late-season harvest.

Cool-Season Vegetables for an Autumn Harvest

Lettuce: Plant fast-growing varieties like loose-leaf lettuce for a quick harvest. Choose a shady spot to protect delicate leaves from the sun.
Spinach: Similar to lettuce, spinach thrives in cooler temperatures and needs partial shade.
Radishes: These quick-maturing root vegetables can be harvested in just a few weeks.
Kale: This hearty green is cold-hardy and will continue growing into the fall.
Arugula: This peppery green is another quick-growing option for an autumn harvest.
Turnips & Mustard Greens: These cool-season crops thrive in the cooler temperatures of late summer and early fall. Plant seeds directly into the soil.

Tips for Success with August Vegetable Planting

Prepare the Soil: Ensure your soil is well-drained and amend it with compost for optimal nutrient content.
Watering: Consistent watering is crucial, especially during hot and dry spells. Water deeply and less frequently to encourage strong root systems.
Mulching: Add a layer of mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Pest Control: Monitor your plants for pests and diseases and take appropriate measures if needed.

Flowers to Plant in August in Virginia

August provides a window to add vibrant color to your garden before the cooler months arrive.

Flowers for Fall Color

Pansies: These cheerful blooms tolerate cooler temperatures and will add a splash of color to your garden beds.
Mums: Chrysanthemums (mums) are a quintessential fall flower and come in a wide variety of colors and sizes. Plant them in well-drained soil.
Ornamental Kale & Cabbage: These offer stunning foliage in shades of purple, red, and green. They’re striking additions to fall containers.

Planting and Care Tips

Sunlight: Consider the sunlight requirements of your chosen flowers. Many prefer at least six hours of sunlight daily.
Deadheading: Regularly remove spent blooms to encourage more flowering.
Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.

Herbs to Plant in August in Virginia

Many herbs thrive in the cooler temperatures of late summer and early fall, providing fresh flavors for your kitchen.

Best Herbs for August Planting

Basil: While basil prefers warm weather, consider planting a heat-tolerant variety if you plan to plant in August. Harvest frequently to encourage new growth.
Cilantro: This cool-season herb can still be successfully planted in August for a fall harvest.
Parsley: Parsley is a hardy herb that thrives in cooler weather, making it an excellent choice for August planting.

Herb Care Tips

Watering: Consistent watering is essential, especially during dry spells.
Sunlight: Most herbs need at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Harvesting: Harvest herbs regularly to encourage new growth and prevent bolting.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Late-Summer Harvest

Planting in August in Virginia can be rewarding. With careful selection of appropriate plants and diligent care, you can enjoy a bountiful late-season harvest of vegetables, flowers, and herbs. Remember to pay attention to soil preparation, watering, and pest control for optimal results. Happy gardening!