Contents
Intro
So, you’re wondering what to plant in August zone 7? You’ve come to the right place! August marks a pivotal time in gardening, especially in Zone 7. With summer winding down, it’s the perfect opportunity to plant cool-season crops and prep for fall. Whether you’re a new gardener or a seasoned pro, I’ve got you covered with everything you need to know about gardening tasks for this month. Let’s dive in!
Monthly Garden Calendar
January
January may seem like a quiet month for gardening, but it’s the ideal time to plan your garden layout. I like to gather inspiration from various resources and sketch out a rough design of how I want my garden to look. Don’t forget to order those seeds you’ve had your eye on. It’s like planting the seeds of your future garden!
February
When February rolls around, it’s time to get those seeds started indoors! If you’re itching to dig in the dirt, this is when you can begin your indoor seed starts for crops like tomatoes and peppers. Imagine that first sprout peeking through the soil—that’s the magic of gardening!
March
Come March, you’re really gearing up for the season. This month is all about preparing your garden beds. I recommend turning over the soil and mixing in some compost to give your plants the nutrients they’ll need. Plus, it’s a great time to direct sow cool-season crops like peas and prune fruit trees for a healthy yield.
April
April showers bring May flowers, but they also bring the perfect time to transplant seedlings outside. I usually wait until after those last frosts before I start moving my vigorous little plants to their new homes. It’s also excellent for continuing to sow cool-weather crops. Just the thought of a vibrant garden makes me excited!
May
As May warms up, it’s time to focus on planting warm-season crops. Think tomatoes, peppers, and squash! It’s so fulfilling to sow these seeds and see them grow. Just keep an eye out for pesky pests, as they seem to appear just as quickly as your plants do.
June
By June, your garden should be thriving! Regular watering becomes crucial, especially in the hotter months. I’ll often mulch to help retain that much-needed moisture—and it really does make a difference. Plus, be sure to harvest any early crops as they become ready. Nothing beats fresh produce straight from your garden!
July
July can feel like the heart of summer, and it’s essential to keep managing pests and diseases during this time. Watering and monitoring growth is key. And don’t forget to consider planting succession crops to keep the harvest going. There’s nothing like a continuous supply of fresh veggies.
August
Let’s talk about what to plant in August zone 7. It’s a crucial time for sowing seeds for crops like spinach, kale, and other cool-season favorites. As the temperatures cool slightly, you can start to think about planning for fall crops. Keep that watering routine going! August is also when I like to take a moment to whip my garden back into shape, trimming back spent plants and prepping the soil for what’s next.
September
September is the month to plant fall crops such as garlic, which you can put in the ground and let it do its thing. The transition to cooler weather means it’s also time to start preparing your garden for winter and thinking about how to protect your perennials.
October
As October dawns, it’s crunch time. You’ll want to focus on harvesting any remaining crops. This is when I like to clean up the garden, pulling out what’s done and getting the beds ready for the colder months. It’s surprising how much we can gather before winter sets in!
November
In November, I’m all about mulching and protecting perennial plants. Covering the soil helps maintain its temperature. Plus, start planning for next year’s garden! It’s a great time to think about what worked and what didn’t.
December
Finally, December is for reflection. I find it beneficial to take time to research new plants and consider what seeds to order for the upcoming season. It’s a peaceful time to appreciate the year’s harvest and set new intentions.
Planting in August
Let’s get back to what to plant in August zone 7. This month is perfect for sowing seeds for crops that thrive in cooler weather. For example, leafy greens like spinach and kale are fab options. They thrive in the fall and can even handle a little frost. You can sow them directly in the garden or start seeds indoors.
Here’s a quick guide to plantings:
– Spinach: Sow directly in rich soil, about ½ inch deep.
– Kale: Transplant or direct sow; ensure plenty of sunlight.
– Beets: These can also be seeded now; aim for rich, well-drained soil.
Maintenance Tips
While planting is the main focus, don’t forget about maintenance! Regularly check your plants for diseases and pests. Trust me, keeping up with pest control saves a lot of heartache down the road.
Zone 7 Planting Calendar Overview
To fully appreciate what to plant in August zone 7, it’s essential to look at the broader zone 7 planting calendar. This area, known for its moderate climate, allows for the growth of a wide variety of dishes. Be proactive and plan for upcoming seasons, and you’ll be golden!
– Spring (March-May): Focus on a mix of cool- and warm-season crops.
– Summer (June-August): Maintain established crops and prepare for fall.
– Fall (September-November): Time to plant hardier fall crops and garlic.
– Winter (December-February): Reflect, plan, and prepare for the next gardening year.
Conclusion
Gardening in Zone 7 offers unique challenges and rewards, especially in August. I encourage you to leave comments or share your gardening experiences with us! For more in-depth tips and resources, visit my website at Starter Vegetable Gardens. Happy gardening!
