Planting calendar
August Planting Guide for Portland, OR: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In August in Portland, OR, focus on planting cool-season crops and preparing for fall harvests in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. This is a great time to sow leafy greens, root vegetables, and herbs that thrive as temperatures begin to cool. Avoid heat-sensitive plants and start planning for indoor seed starting to extend your growing season.
Plant now (quick list)
kale, spinach, lettuce, radishes, beets, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower
Plant now
- kale
- spinach
- lettuce
- radishes
- beets
- carrots
- broccoli
- cauliflower
- Swiss chard
- cilantro
Start indoors
- broccoli seedlings
- cauliflower seedlings
- cabbage seedlings
- lettuce seeds
- kale seeds
- spinach seeds
- herbs like basil and parsley
- onion sets
- celery seeds
- leek seeds
Avoid
- tomatoes
- peppers
- eggplants
- beans
- corn
- melons
- squash
- cucumbers
- basil (outdoor planting late August)
- potatoes
Next 2 weeks
- plant fall cover crops to improve soil
- mulch raised beds to retain moisture
- start hardening off indoor seedlings
- thin out crowded seedlings
- water consistently during dry spells
- monitor for pests like aphids and caterpillars
- prune summer crops to encourage new growth
- fertilize leafy greens lightly
- prepare soil for garlic planting next month
- clean and sanitize containers before reuse
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes in August in Portland?
It's best to avoid planting tomatoes in August as the growing season is winding down and cooler temperatures can limit fruit development.
What vegetables grow well in containers during August?
Leafy greens like spinach, lettuce, and herbs such as cilantro and parsley perform well in containers during August.
How can I protect my garden from early fall frosts?
Use row covers, cloches, or cold frames to shield plants from frost and extend the growing season.
Is it too late to start seeds indoors in August?
No, starting cool-season crops indoors in August allows seedlings to be transplanted outdoors for a fall harvest.
Should I fertilize my raised beds in August?
Light fertilization with balanced or nitrogen-rich fertilizer helps support leafy crop growth during late summer.
Next steps
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