Planting calendar
August Planting Guide for Columbus, OH: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In August in Columbus, OH, focus on planting cool-season crops and preparing for fall harvests in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. This is a great time to sow leafy greens, root vegetables, and start some fall flowers indoors for transplanting later.
Plant now (quick list)
Lettuce, Spinach, Radishes, Beets, Kale, Swiss chard, Carrots, Broccoli
Plant now
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Radishes
- Beets
- Kale
- Swiss chard
- Carrots
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
Start indoors
- Cabbage
- Brussels sprouts
- Kohlrabi
- Herbs (basil, parsley)
- Chard
- Leafy greens (for fall transplant)
Avoid
- Tomatoes (avoid new plantings due to heat stress)
- Peppers (avoid new plantings late in season)
- Corn (too late for fall harvest)
- Beans (late plantings may not mature before frost)
- Squash (avoid planting now due to heat and disease risk)
Next 2 weeks
- Mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weeds
- Water consistently, especially in containers
- Monitor for pests like aphids and squash bugs
- Start hardening off indoor seedlings for fall transplant
- Prepare soil with compost for fall planting
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes in August in Columbus, OH?
It's generally too late to plant tomatoes in August as they need warm temperatures and time to mature before the first frost.
What vegetables grow well in containers in August?
Leafy greens like lettuce and spinach, radishes, and herbs grow well in containers during August.
How do I prepare my garden for fall planting?
Add compost to enrich soil, mulch to retain moisture, and start seeds indoors for cool-season crops.
Is it safe to plant root vegetables now?
Yes, root vegetables like carrots, beets, and radishes can be planted in August for a fall harvest.
How often should I water raised beds and containers in August?
Water daily or as needed to keep soil consistently moist, especially during hot, dry spells.
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