Planting calendar
August Planting Guide for Nashville, TN: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground Gardens
August in Nashville is ideal for planting heat-tolerant fall crops and starting cool-season vegetables indoors. Focus on sowing leafy greens, root vegetables, and herbs in raised beds, containers, or directly in-ground to prepare for a productive fall harvest.
Plant now (quick list)
Bush beans, Beets, Carrots, Collard greens, Kale, Radishes, Turnips, Swiss chard
Plant now
- Bush beans
- Beets
- Carrots
- Collard greens
- Kale
- Radishes
- Turnips
- Swiss chard
Start indoors
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Brussels sprouts
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Kohlrabi
Avoid
- Tomatoes (direct sow)
- Peppers (direct sow)
- Corn
- Eggplants
- Summer squash
Next 2 weeks
- Water regularly in the morning to reduce heat stress
- Mulch raised beds and containers to retain moisture
- Monitor for pests like aphids and squash bugs
- Thin seedlings for better air circulation
- Fertilize leafy greens with nitrogen-rich fertilizer
- Start hardening off indoor seedlings
- Prepare soil by adding compost for fall planting
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes in August in Nashville?
It's best to avoid direct sowing tomatoes in August due to heat and limited time before frost. Instead, focus on starting cool-season crops.
How often should I water raised beds and containers in August?
Water daily or as needed to keep soil consistently moist, especially during hot spells, preferably early in the morning.
When should I transplant indoor seedlings outdoors?
Transplant seedlings outdoors after hardening them off for 7-10 days and when nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 50°F.
What pests should I watch for in August?
Common pests include aphids, squash bugs, and cucumber beetles; inspect plants regularly and use organic controls if needed.
Is it necessary to fertilize in August?
Yes, applying a balanced or nitrogen-rich fertilizer supports healthy growth of fall crops in raised beds and containers.
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