August is a month of harvest and preparation. Beds are full, and the first sowings for autumn and winter begin. 100% Local
Cool-season herbs and salads can be sown now for autumn. Cilantro and parsley especially appreciate the return of cooler weather, and lettuce sown now will crop into the autumn.
In hot zones, wait for the worst heat to pass before sowing fall crops and keep watering. In cooler zones, autumn planting can begin earlier. Shortening days signal plants to slow down.
Houseplants are still growing, so keep feeding and watering, but watch for the first signs of slower growth as the days shorten. Check any plants that spent summer outdoors for pests before bringing them back inside later in the season.
Fast salad crops, spinach, radish and many leafy greens all work well. Sow into moist soil and keep them watered as they establish.
Keep feeding plants that are still growing or fruiting, but ease off on tender perennials late in the month as growth slows.
Prepare beds for autumn planting, order bulbs and decide which crops will overwinter. Gathering seeds now saves money and preserves the varieties you like best.
General horticultural guidance for planning only. Verify locally.