Planting calendar
August Planting Guide for Portland, OR: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In August, Portland gardeners can focus on planting cool-season crops and preparing for fall harvests. This is an ideal time to sow leafy greens, root vegetables, and start some fall flowers in raised beds, containers, or directly in the ground.
Plant now (quick list)
lettuce, spinach, radishes, kale, beets, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower
Plant now
- lettuce
- spinach
- radishes
- kale
- beets
- carrots
- broccoli
- cauliflower
- Swiss chard
- turnips
Start indoors
- cabbage
- collard greens
- brussels sprouts
- kohlrabi
- parsley
- celery
- leeks
- onions (from seed)
- winter herbs (thyme, sage)
Avoid
- tomatoes
- peppers
- eggplants
- beans
- corn
- summer squash
- cucumbers
- melons
- basil
- okra
Next 2 weeks
- water raised beds and containers deeply to prevent heat stress
- mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- thin seedlings to avoid overcrowding
- monitor for pests like aphids and caterpillars
- start hardening off indoor seedlings for transplant
- plan and prepare soil for fall planting
- remove spent summer crops to reduce disease risk
- fertilize leafy greens for vigorous growth
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes in August in Portland?
August is generally too late to start tomatoes in Portland as they need a long growing season and warm temperatures to mature before fall frosts.
How often should I water raised beds in August?
Water raised beds deeply about 2-3 times per week, adjusting for rainfall and heat, to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Is it better to plant leafy greens in containers or in-ground during August?
Both work well, but containers may dry out faster, so they require more frequent watering. In-ground planting benefits from cooler soil and better moisture retention.
When should I start preparing my garden for fall crops?
Start preparing soil and planning your fall garden in August to ensure timely planting of cool-season vegetables and to improve soil health.
What pests should I watch for in August?
Common pests include aphids, caterpillars, and slugs; regular monitoring and organic controls can help protect your crops.
Next steps
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