Planting calendar
August Planting Guide for Jacksonville, FL: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In August, Jacksonville gardeners can focus on heat-tolerant vegetables and herbs suitable for raised beds, containers, and in-ground planting. This month is ideal for starting fall crops and preparing for cooler weather by planting heat-resilient greens and root vegetables.
Plant now (quick list)
Okra, Sweet potatoes, Southern peas (cowpeas, black-eyed peas), Eggplant, Peppers, Malabar spinach, Yardlong beans, Sweet corn
Plant now
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes
- Southern peas (cowpeas, black-eyed peas)
- Eggplant
- Peppers
- Malabar spinach
- Yardlong beans
- Sweet corn
Start indoors
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Collards
- Kale
- Brussels sprouts
- Lettuce
- Spinach
Avoid
- Tomatoes (avoid new plantings due to heat stress)
- Cucumbers (late summer plantings risk disease)
- Squash (susceptible to powdery mildew in heat)
- Potatoes (late plantings risk poor tuber development)
- Beans (avoid late plantings to reduce pest pressure)
Next 2 weeks
- Monitor soil moisture closely; increase watering frequency
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Begin hardening off indoor seedlings for fall transplant
- Watch for pests like aphids and spider mites; treat promptly
- Fertilize heat-loving crops with balanced fertilizer
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes in August in Jacksonville?
It's best to avoid planting new tomatoes in August due to high heat stress; wait until temperatures cool in early fall.
What vegetables grow well in containers during August?
Okra, peppers, and Malabar spinach perform well in containers during the hot August climate.
How often should I water raised beds in August?
Water raised beds deeply at least twice a week, increasing frequency during heatwaves to prevent drying.
Is it safe to start leafy greens indoors this month?
Yes, starting broccoli, kale, and lettuce indoors in August prepares you for transplanting when temperatures moderate.
What pests should I watch for in August?
Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies are common in August; regular inspection and early treatment help protect plants.
Next steps
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