Top 5 Seeds to Plant in August for a Bountiful Harvest

Written by: Vanessa Dawson

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Time to read 2 min

Harvesting beets

August might signal the end of peak summer, but for gardeners, it’s far from the finish line. With soil still warm and daylight hours gradually shortening, seeds sown in August germinate quickly and establish strong roots—ideal for both late-season harvests and next year’s fruit production. Below, we highlight 5 of the best plants to start in August with growing tips and Arber product pairings to ensure a healthy, productive season.

1. Spinach

Recommended Zones: 3–9


Why Plant in August: Spinach is a cool-season favorite that germinates well in warm soil and flourishes as temperatures begin to drop. A quick grower, it can be harvested in as little as 4–6 weeks, making it perfect for late-season salads and sautés.


Planting Tip: Plant in partial shade or use shade cloth in hotter regions to prevent bolting during warm spells.


Arber Boost: Organic Plant Food helps deliver balanced nutrients for lush leafy greens without risking nutrient burn in the heat.

2. Radishes

Recommended Zones: 3–10


Why Plant in August: Radishes are one of the fastest-growing root vegetables, with some varieties ready to harvest in as little as 25 days. They're perfect for succession planting, giving you multiple mini harvests before the first frost.


Planting Tip: Sow every 10 days for a steady supply throughout early fall.


Arber Boost: Organic Soil & Root Boost supports root expansion and nutrient absorption, helping you grow crisp, uniform radishes quickly.

3. Strawberries

Recommended Zones: 4–10


Why Plant in August: While strawberries won’t fruit this year, planting them now allows their roots to establish well before winter. That means more vigorous growth and bigger, juicier berries come spring and early summer.


Planting Tip: Choose ever-bearing or day-neutral varieties if you want berries sooner next season.


Arber Boost: Organic Bio Insecticide offers preventative protection from spider mites and aphids, which often target young strawberry plants during late summer.

4. Turnips

Recommended Zones: 3–9


Why Plant in August: Turnips are a dual-purpose crop—great greens up top, sweet roots below. Cooler fall weather enhances their flavor and tenderness. Some varieties are ready in just 50–60 days.


Planting Tip: Harvest greens young for tender texture, or leave them to grow full-sized for cooking.


Arber Boost: Organic Soil & Root Boost improves soil structure and root health, helping turnips bulk up quickly and evenly.

5. Arugula

Recommended Zones: 5-9


Why Plant in August: Arugula is a fast-growing green that thrives in cooler weather and adds a peppery kick to fall salads. It’s perfect for small-space or container gardening.


Planting Tip: Shade seedlings in peak heat using row cover or shade cloth to prevent bolting.


Arber Boost: Bio Protectant helps shield tender arugula leaves from fungal diseases like downy mildew and promotes stress resilience during late-season temperature swings.

Ready to Grow? Plant Smarter this August!


Whether you're going for a quick fall harvest or laying the groundwork for next spring’s bounty, August is a powerful planting month—especially when supported by organic, effective garden care. Arber’s full line of plant nutrition, soil boosters, and organic pest solutions makes it easy to keep your garden growing strong through every season.

Fruit & Veggie Fertilizer and Bio Protectant in raised garden bed