Plant This in August and Reap a Huge Harvest in September: 6 Crops That Are Not Too Late to Sow
“What crops can I plant in August for a September harvest?”
Answer: You can plant radishes, spinach, green onions, and kale in August. These quick-growing crops mature in about 30 days, making them perfect for a September harvest.
Gardening doesn’t always mean waiting months for results. Some crops grow quickly and are perfect for late summer planting. If you sow them in August, you can still enjoy crisp, fresh produce by September. Let’s look at six reliable choices you can plant now.
1. Radishes
Radishes are one of the fastest-growing vegetables. Many varieties are ready in as little as 25–30 days. They thrive in cooler late-summer weather and don’t need much space. Sow the seeds directly into the soil, keep the ground moist, and you’ll be pulling up crunchy roots by early fall.
2. Spinach
Spinach loves the shorter, cooler days at the end of summer. Sow seeds in well-drained soil, and you’ll see young leaves within three to four weeks. You can harvest them early for baby greens or let them mature a little longer for fuller leaves.
3. Lettuce
Lettuce grows quickly and is perfect for cut-and-come-again harvests. Choose fast-growing leaf varieties instead of head lettuce for the quickest results. With regular watering, you can enjoy fresh salads within 30 days of planting.
4. Arugula
Arugula, also called rocket, is another speedy crop. It germinates within a few days and is ready to pick in about 30–35 days. Its peppery flavor makes it a great addition to late-summer salads and sandwiches.
5. Green Onions (Scallions)
Scallions don’t need a long season. When sown in August, they will be ready to snip in about four weeks. They grow well in containers or garden beds and are an easy way to add fresh flavor to meals.
6. Kale
Kale is hardy, fast-growing, and actually tastes sweeter when the weather cools. Young leaves are ready in about 30 days, making it a great late-season crop. Plant it in fertile soil, and it will continue producing even into the fall.
Tips for Late-Summer Planting
- Keep the soil moist: Hot August days can dry out seeds quickly, so water regularly.
- Choose quick-maturing varieties: Look for packets labeled “early” or “fast-growing.”
- Harvest often: Many greens regrow after cutting, giving you multiple harvests.
Final Thoughts
Even though summer is winding down, your gardening season doesn’t have to. By planting fast-growing crops like radishes, lettuce, and kale in August, you’ll enjoy a fresh harvest in September. These vegetables thrive in cooler weather, making late summer the perfect time to sow them.
FAQs
1. Can I still plant vegetables in August?
Yes, many quick-growing crops like radishes, lettuce, spinach, and arugula can be planted in August for a harvest in September.
2. What grows the fastest from seed to harvest?
Radishes are one of the fastest maturing, in about 25–30 days.
3. Can I plant kale in late summer?
Yes, kale grows well when planted in August and will be ready in about 30 days for baby leaves.
4. Do I need special soil for late-season planting?
No, but well-drained, nutrient-rich soil helps crops grow faster and healthier.
5. What can I grow in containers in August?
Lettuce, spinach, arugula, and green onions do very well in pots or containers.
