August is the in-between month between warm season and cool season vegetables. It’s not too late to put in final crop of Warm Season Veggies such as Beans, Corn, Cucumbers, Eggplant, Squash and Tomatoes from starts. Or you can start seeds of Cool Season Edibles in containers placed in a part shade / cool location to plant out after the weather cools. Or you can take a break this month, enjoy the summer harvest and think about putting your fall garden in next month.
The most important job in the edible garden this month is irrigation. Water fruit trees deeply. Be especially careful of container plants and new plantings, which may dry out quickly. Keeping your vegetables picked will prolong harvest.
There is time to plant a late crop of fall Tomatoes if you hurry. Any tomato labeled “early” which means quick maturing is a good choice. One favorite is Early Girl. Also consider tomatoes developed for cool climates with names like Oregon Spring or Siberia.
To go with the tomatoes? Plant Basil to continue summer flavors into fall.
Year Round Veggies: Beets, Carrots, Chard, Radish and Turnips may be planted if seedlings are not allowed to dry out.
Most Herbs may be planted in August: Marjoram, Oregano, Lavender, Mint, Thyme, Tarragon, and Savory as well as Basil, Parsley, and Cilantro.
Container grown Fruit trees are still available:Apple, Apricot, Peach, Fig, Pomegranate, and Plum etc. We also have fruiting vines: Grape, Ollalieberry and Boysenberry.
Tropical and Sub-Tropical Trees: Citrus, Avocado, Banana, Guava etc. may be planted this month.
Have a great August!