Planting calendar
August Planting Guide for Detroit, MI: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In August in Detroit, MI, focus on planting cool-season crops and preparing for fall harvests. You can sow leafy greens, root vegetables, and herbs directly in raised beds, containers, or in-ground. Start indoors for fall transplants and avoid heat-sensitive plants that struggle in late summer heat.
Plant now (quick list)
Spinach, Radishes, Beets, Kale, Lettuce, Carrots, Swiss chard, Turnips
Plant now
- Spinach
- Radishes
- Beets
- Kale
- Lettuce
- Carrots
- Swiss chard
- Turnips
Start indoors
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Brussels sprouts
- Kale
Avoid
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Corn
- Beans
Next 2 weeks
- Direct sow more radishes for continuous harvest
- Transplant started broccoli and cabbage seedlings outdoors
- Mulch raised beds to retain moisture
- Water containers consistently during heat waves
- Begin clearing out spent summer crops to make room for fall plantings
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes in August in Detroit?
It's best to avoid planting tomatoes in August as the heat can stress young plants and the growing season may be too short for a full harvest.
How do I protect fall crops from early frost?
Use row covers or cold frames to shield crops, and plant frost-tolerant varieties to extend your harvest into late fall.
Are containers suitable for fall crops?
Yes, many cool-season crops like lettuce and spinach grow well in containers, making them ideal for limited space.
When should I start broccoli indoors for fall planting?
Start broccoli seeds indoors in mid to late August to transplant outdoors in early fall.
How often should I water raised beds in August?
Water raised beds deeply 2-3 times per week, adjusting for rainfall and temperature to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
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