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
- Soil Preparation: Ensure your soil is well-prepared with compost or organic matter to provide the necessary nutrients for quick-growing plants.
- Watering: Consistent watering is crucial, especially in the late summer heat. Ensure your plants are well-watered but not waterlogged.
- Mulching: Use mulch to retain moisture and keep the soil temperature stable, which can be beneficial for fall crops.
- Protection: Be prepared to protect your plants from unexpected early frosts with row covers or cloches.
- 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.
