Prepare for fall and next year with August vegetable, herb, perennial, and bulb planting.

I love planting seeds and plants in August because it feels like a bridge between seasons, extending the joy of gardening into the cooler months. The late summer warmth helps seeds establish quickly, while the approaching fall brings perfect conditions for many cool season crops and hardy annuals. August planting also allows me to prepare my garden for a vibrant spring, especially with bulbs like tulips and daffodils. There’s something rewarding about giving new life to the garden just as the summer winds down, ensuring that my outdoor space stays colorful and thriving for months to come.

In August, it’s a great time to start thinking about fall planting and preparing for next year’s growing season in northern gardens. Here are some seeds and plants that are ideal for purchasing and planting in August for Zone 4 or colder climates:

1. Cool-Season Vegetables

• Spinach: Planting spinach in late summer allows it to mature in the cool fall weather.
• Kale: This hardy green can be planted in August for a fall harvest.
• Lettuce: Opt for quick-growing varieties for a fall crop.
• Radishes: Fast-growing and perfect for a fall harvest.
• Carrots: Short-season carrot varieties can be planted for a late fall harvest.
• Beets: Like carrots, beets can mature in cooler weather.

2. Perennial Herbs

• Thyme: Plant thyme in August so it can establish before the winter.
• Oregano: Another hardy herb that can benefit from a late summer planting.
• Chives: Planting in August allows chives to establish strong roots before winter.

3. Flower Bulbs for Fall Planting

• Crocuses: These early bloomers can be planted in the fall for a spring display.
• Daffodils: Planting daffodils in the fall ensures they’ll bloom beautifully in early spring.
• Tulips: August is a good time to purchase tulip bulbs for fall planting.
• Alliums: These striking flowers are best planted in late summer or fall.

4. Pollinator-Friendly Perennials

• Milkweed: Essential for monarch butterflies, planting in August gives it a head start for next year.
• Coneflowers: These tough perennials are great for pollinators and can be planted now for blooms next summer.
• Black-eyed Susans: They thrive in colder climates and provide late summer and fall blooms.

5. Cover Crops

• Clover: Great for improving soil quality, clover can be planted in late summer.
• Rye: Winter rye is an excellent cover crop that can be planted in August to protect and enrich the soil over winter.

6. Shrubs and Trees

• Evergreens: August is a good time to plant evergreens like spruce or pine, allowing them to establish roots before winter.
• Fruit Trees: If you’re looking to plant apple or pear trees, August gives them a head start.

These selections will help you make the most of your northern garden as the season transitions from summer to fall.