As summer starts to transition into fall, there’s no need to bid farewell to your gardening endeavors. In Zone 6, August is the perfect time to sow a selection of cool-season plants that thrive in the brisk autumn air. With proper planning, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest that continues well into the fall months. In this guide, we’ll explore the top cool season plants to plant in August, highlighting their preferences, companion plants, days to harvest, and growth expectations.
1. Kale (Days to Harvest: 55-75)
Kale thrives in cool temperatures, making it an excellent candidate for your late summer garden. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Keep in mind that kale’s flavor actually improves with a touch of frost. Consider planting it alongside beets, carrots, or onions as companions.
2. Spinach (Days to Harvest: 37-45)
Spinach loves the cooler weather of early fall. It’s versatile and can grow in both full sun and partial shade. Pair spinach with lettuce, radishes, or carrots for a complementary garden bed. Regular harvesting of outer leaves encourages continuous growth.
3. Lettuce (Days to Harvest: 50-70)
Lettuce varieties, such as leaf lettuce or romaine, are perfect for quick salads and sandwiches. They appreciate cooler temperatures and can thrive in partial shade. Plant lettuce with radishes, onions, or carrots to maximize space and promote healthy growth.
4. Radishes (Days to Harvest: 20-30)
Radishes are a speedy addition to your fall garden. They prefer full sun but can tolerate some shade. Their quick growth makes them excellent companions for slower-growing plants like carrots and spinach.
5. Carrots (Days to Harvest: 55-80)
Carrots thrive in well-draining soil and full sun but can also tolerate light shade. They can be paired with radishes or lettuce to utilize vertical space efficiently. Carrots require patience but are rewarding when they reach their full size.
6. Beets (Days to Harvest: 50-70)
Beets enjoy cooler temperatures and are well-suited for fall planting. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Companion plants like lettuce, onions, and Swiss chard can share space with beets in your garden bed.
7. Swiss Chard (Days to Harvest: 50-60)
Swiss chard is a versatile and nutritious green that thrives in cool conditions. It can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. Plant it alongside beans, cabbage, or onions to create a diverse and vibrant garden bed.
8. Broccoli (Days to Harvest: 60-85)
Broccoli is a bit more time-consuming but is well worth the wait. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil. Plant it near onions, lettuce, or radishes for efficient space utilization.
9. Cabbage (Days to Harvest: 50-85)
Cabbage enjoys cool temperatures and can tolerate light shade. It grows best in well-draining soil and full sun. Plant it alongside herbs like dill or chamomile to enhance its flavor and deter pests.
10. Arugula (Days to Harvest: 40-50)
Arugula adds a peppery kick to salads and dishes. It prefers cooler weather and can grow in both full sun and partial shade. Consider planting it with lettuce or spinach for a flavorful mix.
Conclusion
With a well-planned garden and a selection of cool-season plants, you can extend your gardening season well into the fall. By taking advantage of the crisp temperatures and ample sunshine that Zone 6 offers, you’ll be rewarded with a harvest that’s as vibrant and varied as the autumn foliage. Remember to consider the preferences of each plant, its ideal companions, days to harvest, and growth expectations to create a harmonious and productive garden bed. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, sowing these cool-season plants in August will yield a delicious and satisfying fall harvest.