Table of Contents
With the heat of the summer still lingering and the first hints of fall approaching, August presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges for gardeners. This article provides a list of important tasks to do in your garden during August.
Watering Wisely
August typically brings high temperatures, and this can put stress on your plants, particularly those newly planted. Be sure to water consistently and deeply. Early morning watering is best to reduce evaporation. Always aim to water the soil, not the leaves, to help prevent disease.
Pruning and Deadheading
Deadheading, or removing faded flowers, can encourage plants to produce more blooms. Many perennials and summer-flowering shrubs will benefit from this. Also, prune summer-flowering shrubs after they’ve bloomed to keep them tidy.
Harvesting
August is a time of abundance! Regularly harvest fruits and vegetables to encourage further production. Tomatoes, zucchinis, beans, and summer fruits should be ripe and ready.
Planting Fall Crops
In areas with a longer growing season, August is a great time to start planting fall crops like kale, broccoli, and lettuce. These cool-weather crops can thrive in the fall garden and extend your harvesting season.
Mulching
If you didn’t mulch in the spring, or if your mulch layer has thinned, consider adding a fresh layer of mulch to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Pest Control
Keep an eye out for pests like aphids, slugs, and beetles, as they can be particularly active during this time. Remove them manually or use an organic pest control method.
Seed Saving
As your summer plants start to finish their life cycle, consider saving seeds for next year. Allow the seeds to fully mature on the plant before collecting and storing them in a cool, dry place.
Planning for Next Year
August is a great time to start thinking about next year’s garden. Take note of what plants did well and which ones struggled. Consider ordering bulbs for fall planting.
Remember, gardening isn’t just a spring activity. With these August gardening tasks, you can ensure that your garden is healthy and productive all the way into the fall.