In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the best plants to nurture during this month, providing insight into their specific requirements, tolerances, and other compelling aspects.
Vegetables To Plant
August is an excellent time to plan for late summer and fall harvests. The following vegetables can be successfully planted in Zone 6b during this month, allowing for robust growth even as temperatures begin to drop.
Spinach
Spinach is a cold-hardy leafy green that thrives in the cooler temperatures of late summer and early fall. It can be sown directly in the garden from mid-August to early September. Spinach prefers well-drained soil and partial to full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of sunlight to grow optimally. It typically tolerates temperatures as low as 20°F, making it an ideal crop for late-summer planting. Spinach is not only nutritious but also grows quickly; seeds can sprout in just 7-14 days. Consider planting successive sowings every two weeks for an extended harvest period.
Kale
Another favorite among gardeners, kale is robust and resists frost, allowing for planting in August. Like spinach, it can be sown directly in the ground or started indoors for a few weeks before transplanting. Kale seeds can be planted directly into the field from mid-August until early September. It can survive winter temperatures as low as 15°F, gaining sweetness as the weather cools. Kale prefers well-drained soil and requires about 6 hours of sunlight. The plants grow rapidly, and leaves can be harvested anytime after they reach 6 inches in height, giving you a continuous fresh supply until the ground freezes.
Beets
Beets are a versatile root vegetable that can be planted at the end of summer for a fall harvest. Sowing can begin in mid-August, and they will thrive in average soil conditions that have good drainage. They require a sunny spot with about 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Beets can endure temperatures as low as 20°F; in fact, they can develop a sweeter flavor after exposure to frost. Germination typically occurs in 7-14 days, and both the roots and greens are edible, allowing for additions to salads or cooked dishes.
Carrots
Carrots are fantastic vegetables to plant in August, especially for those who enjoy fresh produce in the fall. These root vegetables should be seeded directly into the soil, ideally by mid-August, to produce mature carrots by late fall. They prefer loose, sandy, or loamy soil, ensuring ample room for the roots to grow without obstruction. Carrots can survive winter temperatures as low as 20°F and often improve in flavor after exposure to frost. Key to their success is consistent moisture and avoiding overcrowding; thinning seedlings will help in achieving large, sweet carrots.
Radishes
Radishes are one of the quickest vegetables to mature and can be planted in August for a late-summer harvest. Seeds can be sown directly into the garden with success expected in just 30 to 60 days. Often, they’re harvested just after the first frost, which sweetens their flavor considerably. They thrive in full sun and enjoy well-drained soil, but they can handle a variety of soil conditions. Given their rapid growth rate, these veggies can bring quick gratification, making them perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Lettuce
With several varieties available, lettuce is suited for an August planting in Zone 6b, particularly in the cooler end of the month. Different types of lettuce can be sown every two weeks for staggered harvests. They do best in rich soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. While some varieties tolerate heat, others prefer cooler temperatures, making August planting ideal for autumn harvests. Lettuce is relatively frost-sensitive; however, certain hardy varieties can survive light frost, ensuring greens for early fall salads.
Broccoli
Broccoli is another crop that does well when planted in August. Transplants started indoors can be moved outside in early August, or seeds can be sown directly in the ground by mid-August. This vegetable thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Broccoli is frost-tolerant and can manage temperatures down to around 20°F. Given the proper care, you can expect fresh heads of broccoli in late fall, adding a burst of nutrition to your table.
Swiss Chard
Swiss chard combines the hardiness of spinach with a vibrant range of colors, making it a stunning addition to any garden. It can be seeded directly into your garden through August with a slight extension into September. Swiss chard delights in nutrient-rich, well-drained soil with consistent moisture and benefits from full sun to partial shade. Hardy against light frosts, it can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°F, which allows for harvesting well into fall and even winter in some regions.
Peas
While most pea varieties prefer spring planting, August offers a second chance for sugar snap or snow pea varieties when planted by mid-August. They thrive in cooler weather and require a well-drained spot with full sun to promote growth. Peas can handle light frosts, making them a safe crop for fall gardening, as they typically mature within 60 to 70 days. With proper care, you can enjoy a delightful harvest of tender, sweet peas as summer transitions into fall.
Turnips
Turnips are quick-growing root vegetables that can be planted in late summer. When sowed in mid-August, you can expect a harvest within 30 to 60 days. They are forgiving and adaptable, thriving in well-drained soil with full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Turnips can withstand light frost, enhancing their sweetness. Fresh turnip greens can also be harvested for salads or cooking, making them a wonder crop that yields both roots and edible greens.
Flowers To Plant
August is a perfect time to plant an array of beautiful flowers in Zone 6b, allowing your garden to burst with color well into fall. Consider the following options for vibrant blooms, as well as beneficial pollinator-friendly plants.
Asters
Asters are a brilliant choice for an August planting, flourishing in the cooler weather while attracting butterflies to your garden. Plant them from mid to late August in a well-drained soil bed with plenty of sunlight. They can tolerate a range of soil conditions but prefer slightly acidic soil. These hardy perennials bloom into late fall, providing vibrant colors of purple, blue, and pink, making them a highlight of any late-season garden.
Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums, often referred to as “mums,” are quintessential fall perennials. Planting them in August offers ample time for their roots to establish before the first frost hits. Choose a location with full sun and well-drained soil for optimal growth. Chrysanthemums are celebrated for their diverse range of colors and flower forms, adding extensive visual interest to any fall landscape. They bloom from late summer into autumn and thrive with regular watering.
Pansies
Pansies are often thought of as spring flowers, but they also tolerate the cooler temperatures of late summer, making August a fantastic time to plant them. Pansy seedlings can be started indoors or bought at a garden center and then transposed outdoors for bright displays in the upcoming months. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and will flourish in full sun to partial shade. Pansies can survive light frosts and may continue blooming into winter in milder climates, making them versatile and reliable garden additions.
Sedums
Sedums are part of the succulent family and are perfect for low-maintenance gardens. Planting in August allows their robust roots to develop and withstand the upcoming cooler months. They enjoy full sun and dry conditions, thriving in well-draining soil. Their fleshy, drought-tolerant leaves make them perfect for challenging landscape areas. Sedums produce clusters of tiny flowers in the late summer to early fall, providing a late-season nectar source for pollinators.
Marigolds
Planting marigolds in August is ideal for filling any gaps in the garden. These hardy annuals can be directly seeded in the garden or transplanted from nursery pots. They thrive in full sun and are adaptable to various soil types. Marigolds are known for their vibrant orange and yellow hues, effortlessly brightening up any flower bed. Additionally, they are excellent companion plants that help protect vegetable and flower crops from pests.
Phlox
Phlox is a fragrant perennial that comes in several varieties, including creeping, garden, and tall phlox. Depending on the type, they can be planted from mid to late August. They thrive in full sun, producing large clusters of flowers that attract bees and butterflies. While most phlox varieties are hardy to zone 6b, they prefer well-drained and fertile soil for rich blooms from late summer into early fall.
Snapdragons
Snapdragons are charming, vertical flowers that can be planted in late summer for an extended blooming period. They can be started indoors for a pop of color in August or directly sown for cooler-season blooms. Preferring a full sun position and well-drained soil, snapdragons are versatile in the garden and benefit from supportive staking as they grow taller. They often continue to bloom until the frost arrives, making a delightful appearance in any late-summer arrangement.
Black-Eyed Susans
These beautiful daisy-like flowers are a staple of any summer garden. Black-eyed Susans are easy to grow from seeds planted in August and can withstand various soil conditions. They thrive in full sun and are excellent for attracting pollinators to your garden. Again, they can constitute a stunning backdrop to other seasonal flowers, lining beds with their vibrant yellow petals from summer into fall, naturally enriching your landscape.
Salvias
Salvias, or sage, are captivating flowering plants that add a vibrant look to gardens with their striking spikes, coming in shades of blue, purple, and white. They can be planted in August and prefer well-drained soil and sunny locations. Salvias are resilient, drought-tolerant plants that attract butterflies and are known for their aromatic foliage. Blooming at the end of summer and extending into early fall, they provide a decorative allure and function well as border plants.
Zinnias
Zinnias are exuberant annuals that embrace the summer heat. They can be directly seeded in the garden in August for a dazzling array of colors. Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, they are low-maintenance and provide abundant cut flowers for arrangements throughout the fall. Zinnia blooms often last for weeks, providing pollen and nectar for beneficial pollinators, ensuring your garden remains lively during the waning days of summer.
Herbs To Plant
The planting month of August is not only brimming with vegetables and flowers, but also a perfect time for sowing a variety of herbs that can enhance culinary experiences. The following herbs thrive when planted in late summer in Zone 6b.
Basil
Basil, a beloved culinary herb, is ideal for planting in August, ideally in the first half of the month. This heat-loving plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Basil enjoys consistent moisture and warm temperatures, and it can be started from seeds or purchased as young plants. Note that it is sensitive to frost, so be prepared for cover when temperatures drop. Fresh basil adds incredible flavor to many dishes, and you can enjoy continuous harvests throughout early fall if planted correctly.
Cilantro
Cilantro (or coriander) prefers cooler growing conditions, making August an ideal time for planting a fresh round. Seeds can be directly planted, as they favor well-drained soil and at least 6 hours of sunlight. Depending on the temperatures, cilantro can bolt quickly, so be sure to keep the soil moist and provide some afternoon shade during hotter spells. After blooming, you can harvest the seeds for a new batch of cilantro or use them as a spice.
Chives
Chives are perennial herbs that adapt well to fall planting. Planting in August ensures that they will have ample time to establish roots before colder temperatures arrive. They prefer full sun and can grow in various soil types. Chives are fantastic for culinary uses, providing oniony flavor to soups, salads, and other dishes. They make excellent border plants in the garden, with purple flowers that attract bees and other beneficial insects.
Parsley
Parsley can also be planted in August in Zone 6b. Often grown as a biennial, parsley seeds should be sown in well-drained soil either in early August for late summer use or a bit later for overwintering. This herb thrives in full sun to partial shade. Make sure to keep the soil evenly moist for ideal growth. The fresh leaves can be harvested continuously, perfect for garnishing dishes or elevating salads.
Dill
Dill is a wonderful addition to your late-summer herb garden, with a penchant for simply enchanting the flavors of pickles and dressings. Seeds can be sown directly into the garden from now until mid-August, preferring full sun and well-drained soils. Dill tends to bolt quickly in high heat, so consistent watering is key for prolonged production. Blooms can attract myriad beneficial insects, making it a twofold advantage as both a flavorful culinary herb and an insect attractor.
Oregano
Oregano, essential in Mediterranean cooking, is a perennial that can be planted in August to establish through the fall. It thrives in well-drained soils and enjoys full sun. When initially planted, it’s recommended to maintain consistent moisture until the roots have established. Oregano is hardy and drought-resistant, making it a great addition for low-maintenance gardens. As a culinary essential, it complements a variety of dishes and is also known for its aromatic foliage.
Thyme
Thyme is a resilient herb that can be planted in August, ideally towards the end of the month. It prefers sunny spots and well-drained soil, thriving with minimal care once established. Thyme is drought-resistant and can withstand colder temperatures, continuing to grow with mild winter exposure. Whether used fresh or dried, thyme adds wonderful flavor to dishes and enhances culinary creations. As a bonus, it produces small flowers that are excellent for attracting beneficial pollinators.
Sage
Sage is a perennial herb that develops strong flavor profiles when planted in August. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, enhancing your kitchen with its distinctive aroma. Sage is drought-tolerant and can survive winter temperatures of Zone 6b, helping it to flourish in cooler months. With a shorter life cycle than some other herbs, it’s important to establish it in a sunny spot for optimal growth. Fresh sage is a flavorful addition to meats, sauces, and stuffing.
Mint
August is an excellent month to plant mint due to its rapid growth and adaptability. Whether you begin with seeds or divided pots, it thrives in moist, well-drained soil and can flourish in both sun and shade. Mint is quite resilient and can spread quickly, so containment measures might be necessary to prevent it from overtaking other plants. Mint can be harvested as desired, adding fresh flavor to drinks, desserts, and meals.
Tarragon
Tarragon is a robust perennial herb that can be direct-seeded or transplanted in August, preferably in a sunny, well-drained location. French tarragon is favored for its culinary uses, particularly in sauces and butters. As a hardy herb, it can withstand cooler temperatures found in the winter months. While it can take time to establish fully, the flavorful leaves can be harvested once the plants grow large enough.
Landscape Plants To Plant
Besides food and ornamental offerings, August is also a prime time to enhance your landscape with various trees and shrubs. These landscape plants provide structure, elegance, and longevity to your garden and yard.
Maple Trees
Maple trees are a tried-and-true staple in many landscapes due to their aesthetic beauty and warm autumnal leaf colors. August is a favorable time for planting saplings, as the cooler nights will help them adapt without the scorching summer heat. While they prefer well-drained, nutrient-rich soil, they can tolerate various conditions. Maples grow robustly and can thrive in urban environments, providing a towering shade canopy over the years, enhancing the overall health and biodiversity of your garden.
Oak Trees
These majestic trees are celebrated for their strength and longevity. August is an excellent time to plant oak saplings, as they can take advantage of cooler days leading into fall and establishing a strong root system. Oaks thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them adaptable to different environments. They provide significant benefits, including shade and habitat for birds and other wildlife, contributing positively to the ecological makeup of your backyard.
Dogwood Trees
Planting dogwood trees in August allows optimal conditions for development. They prefer well-drained soil and are known for their stunning spring blossoms and vibrant fall colors, characterizing them as beautiful landscape features. Dogwoods flourish in partial shade, but they will also tolerate sunny spots. Their delightful flowers attract pollinators, while their unique branching structure provides visual interest year-round.
Flowering Cherry Trees
These ornamental trees offer breathtaking profusions of flowers in the spring and are an excellent choice for late summer planting. Flowering cherries thrive in well-drained soil and require full sun to maximize blooming potential. They typically adapt well to diverse conditions, allowing for flexibility in placement. The stunning visual rippled with pink and white flowers makes them an irresistible addition to the landscape, providing beauty and attracting pollinators.
Juniper Shrubs
Juniper shrubs are hardy and drought-tolerant, making them perfect for planting in August. They thrive in well-drained soil and can adapt to a variety of conditions. Their durable foliage works well in expansive landscapes, while dwarf varieties can serve as low-maintenance border plants. Junipers provide year-round greenery, and their berries are a food source for birds throughout the colder months.
Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas are beloved for their beautiful blooms that change color based on soil acidity. Late summer, especially August, is a great time to plant hydrangeas in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. They prefer partial sunlight to full sun and require regular watering to establish roots. These iconic flowering shrubs will showcase stunning blossoms come spring and summer, adding a captivating touch to home landscapes.
Boxwood
Boxwoods are versatile evergreen shrubs, ideal for maintaining year-round structure in gardens and landscape designs. August planting permits their roots enough time to settle before winter. Boxwoods thrive in well-drained soil and partial to full sun. Known for their elegance, they can be easily shaped for hedges or topiaries, providing enhanced curb appeal and a lush garden year-round.
Butterfly Bush
For a splash of color and a haven for pollinators, consider planting butterfly bushes in August. These perennial shrubs thrive in full sun and loamy, well-drained soil. Once established, they are drought-tolerant and provide an attractive bloom that attracts butterflies and bees. These bushes can grow quite large, and the flowers continue to bloom throughout the summer, making them a standout feature in gardens and landscapes.
Lavandula (Lavender)
Lavender is a beautiful herbaceous perennial that provides wonderful fragrance and color to gardens. Planting lavender in August allows it time to establish roots. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in well-draining, sandy soils and full sun. Its purple blooms promote pollination, while it also makes for delightful culinary uses, forming a multi-functional building block for your garden design.
Weigela
Weigela shrubs produce eye-catching, tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and other pollinators. Planting in August allows the roots to fully establish by the time winter arrives, ensuring a vibrant appearance come spring. They prefer well-drained soil and can adapt to both sunny and partly shaded locations. Weigelas are known for their beautiful foliage and colorful blooms, making them an attractive addition to any landscaping endeavor.
