Hello fellow green thumbs! I recently stumbled upon a video by Epic Gardening titled “13 Veggies You Can Start in August RIGHT NOW!” and let me tell you, it was a revelation. If you, like me, thought that August was too late to start anything in the garden, prepare to be pleasantly surprised.
1. Celery: The video kicked off with celery, a plant I’ve admittedly struggled with. But Epic Gardening recommends the Utah variety, which thrives in consistently mild temperatures. The key? Start it in August for those in warmer zones and enjoy crunchy celery by winter.
2. Brussels Sprouts: Ah, the vegetable many of us despised as kids. But did you know that the Long Island improved variety can be started in August? Especially if you’re in zones 8 and above, planting them now ensures they grow in cooler temperatures, avoiding the aphid infestation that warmer springs bring.
3. Tendergreen Mustard (or Mustard Spinach): This isn’t your typical mustard or spinach. It’s part of the chicory family and is cold-hardy, perfect for those cooler nights. Direct sow this when the soil temperature is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and you’ll have a nutrient-packed green in no time.
4. Beets: As a kid, I wasn’t a fan. But after learning about the Gourmet Blend and the Golden beet variety, I’m sold. The best part? Beet seeds are compound seeds, meaning one seed can sprout multiple plants. Direct sow them, keep them well-watered, and enjoy sweeter beets come fall.
5. Carrots: Perfect for those comforting fall soups and stews, carrots thrive in cool fall conditions. The video recommends the Sheen Kuroda and Danvers 126 varieties.
And that’s just the tip of the iceberg (lettuce)! The video dives into several other veggies, and I’m eager to try them all. If you’re looking to extend your gardening season, definitely give this video a watch. And remember, it’s never too late to get your hands dirty and start planting!