August is a good time to plant fall vegetables. Getting those seeds into the ground in late summer ensures a hearty harvest of cooler weather vegetables. When to plant vegetables and which vegetables to plant depends on the type of vegetable and the climate zone. August plantings generally include green leafy vegetables and carrots.

Vegetables to Plant in August

Plant vegetables with a 60- to 80-day maturation cycle. Understand that planting time need to be adjusted according to climate zones. Leafy green vegetables, such as cabbage, work well in August planting. Beets, peas, chard, kale, carrots, lettuce, radishes, spinach, bok choy, brussel sprouts, and cauliflower can be planted in August. Cucumbers, broccoli, kohlrabi, mustard greens, onions, radishes, rutabagas and turnips fill out the bill for August plantings. Master gardeners say that fall plantings are stronger, healthier and more flavorful than spring harvests. Parsnips and Jerusalem artichokes do best after surviving a frost. As for edible bulbs, do not forget garlic and onions. These bulbs will be heartier and fuller flavor if they go through a frost and snow.

How to Plant for August

Conduct research before planting. Check out the weather almanac to find out when the first frost is expected. Find the number of days to maturity by counting backward from the frost date. This provides an optimum time to plant. Two of the major components to look for in seeds are quick maturity and ability to withstand the cold. Prepare the area for planting by clearing out any decay or leftover plantings. Not clearing out the soil expands bacteria growth. Use compost or mulch to help enrich the soil. Plant seeds an inch deeper in the soil in August than in spring. They will need to be cooler and more moist in August. Make sure there is plenty of shade as the transplants acclimate to being outside. Using a piece of lattice placed on top of bricks until all the seedlings are strong works keeps them shaded and protected. Water the area of planting, using a mist for at least 30 minutes. This helps lower the temperature of the soil and creates the climate for cooler season growing. If the weather is hot before planting seedlings, water the area, cover the area with straw and water again. Wait a couple of days, remove the straw and plant your seedlings.

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