August Harvests: 7 Quick-Growing Vegetables and Herbs to Plant Now

As summer transitions towards autumn, the gardening opportunities do not diminish. Instead, many fast-growing vegetables and herbs thrive in August, offering gardeners a chance for a quick harvest. Here, we explore the top varieties you should consider planting this month to ensure your kitchen is brimming with fresh flavors over the next few months.

Quick-growing crops for August harvests.

1. Spinach: A Versatile Green

One of the quintessential choices for late summer planting is spinach. Its unique ability to be a ‘cut and come again’ crop means you can continuously harvest the smaller leaves throughout the season. Not only does it boost your salads with vibrant greens, but it’s also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, making it a staple in any garden.

2. Radishes: Fast and Flavorful

Radishes are among the speedsters of the garden, going from seed to harvest in just 25-30 days. Not only do they provide a satisfying crunch, but their peppery flavor can enrich a range of dishes. Plant them now, and soon you’ll have an abundant supply just in time for your late-summer salads.

3. Basil: A Culinary Essential

No summer garden is complete without basil. Its aromatic leaves can elevate everything from pasta to pesto, and its sweet flavor is undeniably refreshing. The warm temperatures in August are perfect for growing this beloved herb, as its flavor intensifies when it matures under the sun.

Nothing beats the scent of fresh basil in the summer.

4. Garlic Chives: A Hint of Garlic

For those looking to add a subtle garlic flavor to their meals, garlic chives are a fabulous choice. These hardy plants not only thrive in poor soil but they also multiply quickly, providing a steady supply of fresh leaves. Their great taste and ease of cultivation make them a must-have in any herb garden.

5. Arugula: Zesty Greens for Salads

Arugula is another fast-growing salad green that shouldn’t be overlooked. Known for its peppery taste, it adds depth to salads and sandwiches. Sowing arugula in August means you can enjoy its spicy flavor well into the cooler months, complementing any dish with zest.

6. Runner Beans: Late Starters Welcome

Don’t worry if you haven’t planted your runner beans yet; August is still a prime time. These vigorous climbers can grow rapidly and deliver a hearty yield, especially in mild climates. Their vibrant flowers not only beautify any garden but they also attract bees and butterflies, enhancing pollination and biodiversity.

Runner beans climbing high.

7. Asian Greens: A Flavorful Mix

For those looking to diversify their greens, Asian varieties such as Chinese cabbage, pak choi, mizuna, and tatsoi are superb options for late summer planting. These greens favor warmer soil temperatures for germination but thrive in the cooler, damp conditions of fall. They add unique flavors and textures to your culinary creations while providing abundant harvests through the season.

As temperatures shift and fall approaches, embracing these fast-growing crops can enhance your kitchen with homegrown freshness. With just a bit of effort in the garden, you can reap the rewards of your labor with vibrant, healthy produce that complements the changing seasons.

Happy planting!

Conclusion

This August, take advantage of the remaining sunny days by sowing these seven vegetables and herbs in your garden. Not only will they provide you with fast results, but they will also enrich your meals with their fresh-picked flavors.

Growing your own food is rewarding and delicious.