Gardening in August – Expert Tips and Checklist for California!

What vegetables to plant in August in California? Which are the most important tasks that you should take care of, according to experts?

Gardening To-Do List – What Can I Plant in August in California?

No matter what you choose to plant and grow, the California climate is perfect for gardening! August is typically the hottest month of the year, so it is wise to stay up on some important tasks that’ll help you maintain a beautiful garden, full of healthy and nourished plants!

Prioritize Water Use

If your priority is to plant and grow flowers and vegetables, you should make sure that your garden receives enough water. One way to do that is to install a drip irrigation system instead of using sprayers. A quick and easy way to save water is to use it in the early mornings or at nights.

Read also: Essential gardening tools for beginners!

Plant Mustard

Mustard is nutritious and versatile as a side dish, just like the spinach and kale. If you are living in a Southern coastal area of California, it is a good idea to plant this vegetable in August or September. 

Plant Radishes

Although radishes can be planted all year long, late August or September are the perfect time periods for California areas that are located in the interior valleys. The seeds can be directly sowed without having to worry about spreading them, since the seedlings have to be thinned after they sprout. 

Plant Turnips

A turnip is another kind of versatile vegetables that you can use in a variety of different ways – from roasting and ricing it to including a turnip into a soup. If you are living in a Southern coastal area, August or September are suitable months to plant it. In this way, you can harvest it as early as in fall. 

Consider Growing Leafy Greens

You could grow the fast-growing options, like lettuce, chicory, arugula, or the slow-growing types – spinach, Swiss Chard, and collards. Both of these alternatives are healthy and rich in important nutrients. We definitely advise you not to miss out on them, since you can harvest most leafy greens in just seven weeks!

Read also: What is lasagna gardening and how to do it properly?

Perennial Herbs

If you plant herbs like oregano, thyme, sage, and lavender throughout the late August period, you can rest assured that you will be able to harvest them for many years to come. Once you plant, they come back every year. Besides, I recommend trying out a pizza with oregano, it is absolutely delicious!

What to Do in the Garden in August? Cut Flowers for Bouquets!

One important task that you should not forget completing when it comes to August gardening is to harvest flowers in order to allow them to continue blooming. Pick your favorite ones in the early morning and put the cut stems into a bucket of water. Also, in case you have a peach tree in your garden, it is good to take measures in order to protect the fruits from squirrels and birds.