Planting calendar
August Planting Guide for San Antonio, TX: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
In August, San Antonio gardeners can focus on planting heat-tolerant fall crops and preparing for cooler weather. This month is ideal for sowing seeds and transplanting vegetables like leafy greens and root crops in raised beds, containers, or in-ground gardens. Be mindful of the late summer heat and water needs when planting now.
Plant now (quick list)
Bush beans, Okra, Sweet potatoes slips, Southern peas, Malabar spinach, Eggplant, Peppers, Tomatoes (heat-tolerant varieties)
Plant now
- Bush beans
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes slips
- Southern peas
- Malabar spinach
- Eggplant
- Peppers
- Tomatoes (heat-tolerant varieties)
Start indoors
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Kale
- Collard greens
- Brussels sprouts
- Lettuce
- Spinach
Avoid
- Cool-season crops outdoors (lettuce, broccoli) due to heat
- Root crops in poorly drained soil
- Overcrowding plants in containers
- Planting frost-sensitive crops late in the month
- Heavy fertilization during peak heat
Next 2 weeks
- Begin hardening off indoor seedlings
- Mulch raised beds to retain moisture
- Monitor soil moisture closely
- Prune summer crops to encourage airflow
- Watch for pests like aphids and spider mites
- Start preparing soil for fall planting
- Water containers early in the morning
FAQs
Can I plant cool-season crops directly in August in San Antonio?
August is generally too hot for direct sowing cool-season crops outdoors; start them indoors and transplant when temperatures begin to drop.
How often should I water raised beds and containers in August?
Due to high heat, water daily or as needed to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
What are good heat-tolerant vegetables to plant now?
Okra, southern peas, eggplant, and heat-tolerant tomato varieties perform well in August heat.
When should I transplant seedlings started indoors?
Transplant cool-season seedlings outdoors after the hottest part of summer passes, usually late September or early October.
Is mulching beneficial in August?
Yes, mulching helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature during hot weather.
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