7 Fast-Growing Vegetables and Herbs to Plant in August

As the warm days of summer begin to wane, August presents an opportune moment for avid gardeners to sow a variety of quick-growing vegetables and herbs. This month is your last chance to cultivate some fast-maturing plants that will reward you with a fresh harvest before the colder weather sets in. In this article, we delve into seven easy-to-grow options that promise not only a quick yield but also delightful flavors that can enhance your summer salads and winter pickles alike.

Explore the vibrant world of fast-growing crops to satisfy your culinary cravings.

1. Spinach

Spinach is the ultimate “cut and come again” crop, offering a continuous supply of fresh greens from now until fall. Ideal for salads, this leafy green can be sown direct into enriched soil, and with proper care, you’ll be snipping healthy leaves within just 30 days.

Harvesting spinach early in the morning ensures that you enjoy crisp leaves, full of flavor. Variety options abound, such as the Riverside Hybrid Spinach, which resists heat-induced bolting and keeps producing through the warm months.

“For the sweetest, crispiest spinach, make sure to harvest it early in the morning while the weather is still cool,” explains Resh Gala, a New Jersey-based organic gardener.

Spinach is a nutritious addition to any summer salad.

2. Radishes

Few crops can deliver such rapid results as radishes, which can be ready for harvest in as little as 25 to 30 days. Perfect for small gardens, these vibrant roots should be sown in well spaced rows to allow for healthy bulb formation. You can enjoy them fresh in salads or even as a crisp garnish for various dishes.

The Watermelon Radish is a remarkable variety with a sweet flavor and crisp texture, while the Pink Beauty Radish boasts a stunning rose hue and a particularly mild taste. With careful timing and regular sowing, you can have a continuous supply throughout the autumn.

Radishes provide a delightful crunch and color to your meals.

3. Basil

A chef’s favorite, basil brings a burst of flavor to any dish and is especially aromatic in summer. This Mediterranean herb thrives in warm weather and does best when planted in well-draining containers. After planting, seedlings can be harvested as soon as three weeks later.

Expert gardener Maggie Stuckey notes that “growing basil from seed is much more manageable than with many other herb plants.” Remember to pinch off flower stems to encourage bushy growth and more flavorful leaves.

Basil enhances the flavor of many dishes, from pasta to salads.

4. Garlic Chives

For those who appreciate garlic’s flavor without the intense punch, garlic chives are perfect. Their leaves and flowers can be used in various dishes, adding a mild garlic essence. They are straightforward to grow, needing minimal care and can be sown into containers if you’re in a cooler climate.

They bloom stunning white flowers in late summer, providing both beauty and utility in the garden, as noted by horticulturalist Christina Chung. Indoor grow lights can maintain their growth into the cooler months, ensuring you have a steady supply of fresh herbs.

Garlic chives are both beautiful and useful in the kitchen.

5. Arugula

This zesty green is a must-have for salad lovers, ideally sown successively every two weeks for a continual harvest. Arugula’s peppery flavor adds a delightful kick, making it a staple for summer salads. Plant in an area that receives full sun to partial shade for best results.

To keep your crops growing, remember to regularly trim the leaves, encouraging new growth. Fast-maturing varieties like “Speedy” can yield ready-to-harvest leaves in just 30 days.

Arugula brings spice and vibrancy to any dish.

6. Runner Beans

Despite being nearly the end of summer, it’s not too late to plant runner beans. Known for their rapid growth and ornamental appeal, these beans can thrive well into autumn, notably in milder regions. With their beautiful flowers, they also add aesthetic value to any garden.

Christina emphasizes that these plants require good sunlight and regular watering, plus a sturdy trellis for climbing. The Maxpace Garden Stakes Kit is perfect for supporting these showy plants.

Beautiful blooms adorn runner bean plants.

7. Asian Greens

Finally, don’t overlook the wide variety of Asian greens, such as Chinese cabbage and pak choi, which are both fast-growing and flavorful. These greens are excellent for October harvests, as they thrive in the cooler, damp conditions of late summer and fall.

Early sowing will yield baby leaves in just 5-6 weeks; a perfect addition to a stir-fry or salad. Consider growing them in containers for convenience.

Maggie notes, “These plants can handle a wide range of temperatures and aren’t much bothered by disease…” making them ideal for a wide range of garden conditions.

Asian greens add diversity and taste to your dietary options.

Conclusion

August is the perfect month to kickstart your fall vegetable and herb garden with these seven fast-growing crops. Each will add freshness and a burst of flavor to your harvest, ensuring your culinary creations shine bright. So grab your seeds and tools, and enjoy the satisfying process of growing your own garden delights!