Planting calendar
August Planting Guide for Charlotte, NC: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In August in Charlotte, NC, focus on planting heat-tolerant vegetables and starting fall crops in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. This month is ideal for sowing seeds like beans and cucumbers, and preparing for cooler-season greens. Avoid planting frost-sensitive crops as temperatures remain high.
Plant now (quick list)
Bush beans, Cucumbers, Okra, Sweet potatoes (slips), Southern peas, Eggplant, Peppers, Malabar spinach
Plant now
- Bush beans
- Cucumbers
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes (slips)
- Southern peas
- Eggplant
- Peppers
- Malabar spinach
Start indoors
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Kale
- Collards
- Brussels sprouts
- Lettuce
- Spinach
Avoid
- Corn
- Tomatoes (direct sow)
- Potatoes
- Peas
- Frost-sensitive leafy greens
Next 2 weeks
- Continue watering deeply to combat heat
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Monitor for pests like aphids and squash bugs
- Begin hardening off indoor seedlings
- Prepare soil for fall planting by adding compost
- Thin out crowded seedlings
- Stake tall plants to prevent wind damage
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes in August in Charlotte?
It's best to avoid direct sowing tomatoes in August due to heat stress; start seedlings indoors for fall transplanting instead.
How often should I water raised beds in August?
Water raised beds deeply 2-3 times per week, adjusting for rainfall and soil moisture to prevent drought stress.
Is it too late to start fall greens in August?
No, August is a good time to start fall greens indoors for transplanting in September when temperatures begin to cool.
What pests should I watch for in August?
Common pests include aphids, squash bugs, and spider mites; regular inspection and organic controls help manage them.
Can I plant flowers in containers alongside veggies?
Yes, heat-tolerant flowers like marigolds and zinnias can be planted in containers to attract pollinators and deter pests.
Next steps
Get a personalized planting plan
Answer a few questions and generate a plan for your exact location and setup.
Build your garden shopping list
Get a starter kit checklist for what you want to grow (with optional links).
Ask the Gardener
Get quick answers and next-step guidance for your garden.
Want this page for a different city? Try the tool and enter your ZIP: Plant this month.