As summer wanes and the garden transitions, August presents a prime opportunity for sowing seeds that will yield bountiful harvests in the coming seasons. While the focus may be on summer crops, savvy gardeners understand the importance of continuous planting for year-round abundance.
Extending the Growing Season
While spring is traditionally the peak sowing time for many crops, August offers a chance to sow seeds for autumn, winter, and even early spring harvests. In temperate climates like Scotland, where the growing season extends into September, diligent gardeners can continue to sow well into late summer and beyond, especially in protected environments like polytunnels.
What to Sow in August
Lettuce & Leafy Greens
August is an opportune time to sow a variety of lettuces and leafy greens. Quick-growing varieties, such as cut-and-come-again lettuce, land cress, chards, endives, and radicchio, can provide rapid yields for autumn and winter consumption. Additionally, longer-term lettuces can be sown for winter or early spring harvesting, ensuring a steady supply of fresh greens.
Brassicas
Brassicas, including kale, broccoli, tatsoi, pak choi, and mizuna, thrive in cooler temperatures, making them ideal candidates for fall and winter growing. Sow these versatile vegetables in August for hearty crops that withstand the chill of the season. Purple sprouting broccoli, in particular, is a favorite for its early spring harvest.
Alliums
While onions and garlic are typically sown in autumn for overwintering, salad onions offer a convenient option for winter or spring harvests. Sow seeds for bunching onions, scallions, or spring onions in August to ensure a flavorful addition to salads and dishes. These onions also serve as effective companion plants, aiding in organic pest control.
Radishes
Radishes, known for their quick growth and versatility, are ideal for successive plantings throughout the growing season. In August, sow varieties like French Breakfast, Red Globe, Black Spanish, and Daikon for a diverse harvest. Radishes thrive in the polytunnel environment and can be sown alongside other late-season crops.
Conclusion: A Garden for All Seasons
By sowing seeds in August, gardeners can seamlessly transition from summer to fall and beyond, cultivating a garden that yields fresh produce year-round. Whether in a polytunnel or outdoor beds, continuous planting ensures a steady supply of nourishing crops and fosters a deeper connection to the changing seasons. Embrace the opportunities of August sowing to create a thriving garden that sustains you and your family throughout the year.
