Planting calendar
August Planting Guide for Nashville, TN: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In August, Nashville gardeners can focus on planting heat-tolerant vegetables and starting fall crops in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. This is an ideal time to sow seeds for fall harvests and prepare for cooler weather planting.
Plant now (quick list)
Bush beans, Okra, Sweet potatoes slips, Southern peas, Collard greens, Kale, Swiss chard, Turnips
Plant now
- Bush beans
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes slips
- Southern peas
- Collard greens
- Kale
- Swiss chard
- Turnips
- Radishes
- Beets
Start indoors
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Brussels sprouts
- Kohlrabi
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Celery
Avoid
- Tomatoes (new plantings)
- Peppers (new plantings)
- Cucumbers
- Melons
- Corn
- Squash (late plantings)
- Potatoes
- Eggplant
Next 2 weeks
- Continue watering regularly to combat heat stress
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Monitor for pests like aphids and squash bugs
- Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding
- Fertilize leafy greens lightly
- Keep containers shaded during peak heat
- Harvest mature crops promptly
- Prepare soil for fall planting
- Start hardening off indoor seedlings
- Remove any diseased foliage
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes in August in Nashville?
It's best to avoid planting new tomatoes in August due to the limited time before cooler weather and potential heat stress. Focus on maintaining existing plants instead.
What vegetables grow well in containers during August?
Heat-tolerant greens like Swiss chard, kale, and collards do well in containers in August when kept watered and partially shaded during peak heat.
How can I protect my raised bed plants from August heat?
Apply mulch to conserve moisture, water deeply in the morning, and provide shade cloth during the hottest part of the day.
Is it too late to start fall crops in August?
No, August is a good time to start fall crops like broccoli, cabbage, and leafy greens either by direct sowing or starting indoors for transplant.
Should I fertilize my garden in August?
Yes, applying a balanced, light fertilizer can support growth of heat-tolerant and fall crops, but avoid over-fertilizing which can stress plants in hot weather.
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