What Can You Plant In August?

Seeds to Start in August for a Full Harvest in Cleveland, Ohio

Starting a garden in August in Cleveland, Ohio, can be a rewarding endeavor as the cooler fall weather provides an excellent environment for certain crops. Here is a list of seeds you can plant in August to achieve a full harvest before the first frost.

1. Leafy Greens

• Lettuce: Varieties like leaf lettuce, butterhead, and romaine are perfect for a late summer planting. These greens can be harvested in as little as 30 days.
• Spinach: Spinach thrives in cooler temperatures and can be ready to harvest in about 40-50 days.
• Kale: Kale is very hardy and can withstand the cooler fall temperatures. You can start harvesting baby kale leaves in about 30 days, with full-sized leaves ready in 50-60 days.

2. Root Vegetables

• Radishes: Radishes are one of the fastest-growing vegetables and can be ready to harvest in as little as 25-30 days.
• Carrots: While they take a bit longer to mature (60-80 days), planting in August allows for a harvest in late October to early November.
• Beets: Beets can be harvested for their greens in about 30 days and for their roots in 50-60 days.

3. Cruciferous Vegetables

• Broccoli: Planting broccoli in August can yield a harvest in about 60-80 days, making it ready by late October.
• Cauliflower: Similar to broccoli, cauliflower needs 60-80 days to mature and is well-suited for a fall harvest.

4. Herbs

• Cilantro: Cilantro grows quickly and can be ready for harvest in about 30-40 days.
• Parsley: While parsley grows a bit slower, planting it in August can still yield a good harvest before the frost.

5. Legumes

• Peas: Peas are another cool-weather crop that can be planted in August for a fall harvest. They typically mature in about 60 days.

6. Brassicas

• Turnips: Turnips grow quickly, with greens ready to harvest in 30 days and roots in 60 days.

Tips for a Successful Late Summer Garden

1. Soil Preparation: Ensure your soil is well-prepared with compost or organic matter to provide the necessary nutrients for quick-growing plants.
2. Watering: Consistent watering is crucial, especially in the late summer heat. Ensure your plants are well-watered but not waterlogged.
3. Mulching: Use mulch to retain moisture and keep the soil temperature stable, which can be beneficial for fall crops.
4. Protection: Be prepared to protect your plants from unexpected early frosts with row covers or cloches.
5. Succession Planting: For quick growers like radishes and lettuce, consider planting a new batch every two weeks to extend your harvest season.

Conclusion

Gardening in August in Cleveland, Ohio, can yield a bountiful fall harvest if you choose the right crops and care for them properly. Focus on fast-maturing, cool-weather crops to make the most of the remaining growing season. By planning and preparing adequately, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown produce well into the fall.