Beat the Heat, Not the Harvest: Planting Powerhouses for Your Illinois August Garden
August in Illinois. Hot enough to fry an egg on the sidewalk (don't try it, we've all been there), but fear not, fellow green thumbs! While some summer crops are taking a siesta, August is actually prime time for planting a whole new wave of deliciousness in your garden.
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| What Can I Plant In August In Illinois |
Lettuce Make Everything Awesome Again (But Cooler)
Forget flimsy, heat-stressed summer lettuces. August is your chance to plant cool-season crops that'll thrive in the coming cooler weather. Think of it as a victory lap for your garden, with a fresh harvest just in time for those fall barbecues.
- Leaf lettuce varieties like romaine and red leaf will add a delightful crunch to your salads.
- Mesclun mixes offer a vibrant and flavorful party for your taste buds.
- Spinach and Swiss chard are nutritional powerhouses that are perfect for wilting or adding to stir-fries.
Pro-tip: To avoid those sad, wilted lettuces, consider planting them in pots and providing some afternoon shade.
Cruisin' for a Bruisin' (But the Good Kind)
It's time to break out the brass knuckles... of deliciousness, that is! August is a great time to plant some brassica superstars like:
Tip: Read carefully — skimming skips meaning.
- Broccoli and cauliflower: These guys are the ultimate fall side dishes, and starting them in August ensures they'll mature before the first frost.
- Cabbage: Try your hand at Napa cabbage for stir-fries or go classic with good ol' green cabbage for coleslaw.
- Kohlrabi: This funky-looking veggie is like a broccoli bulb on steroids, perfect for roasting or adding to stews.
Don't forget: Keep an eye out for pesky cabbage moths! Floating row covers can be your best friend here.
Radish Renaissance (Because Everything Deserves a Second Chance)
Radishes are the ultimate fast food of the vegetable world. Plant them in August, and you can be harvesting those spicy little gems in as little as 30 days! There are tons of varieties to choose from, so you can find the perfect peppery bite for your palate.
Bonus tip: Radishes are also a great companion plant for other veggies, helping to deter pests and attract beneficial insects.
Tip: Reread the opening if you feel lost.
FAQ: Planting Power in August
How to prepare my garden bed for August planting?
Lightly turn the soil, removing any spent summer crops and weeds. Amending your soil with some compost is a great way to give your new plantings a nutritional boost.
How much sun do my August plantings need?
QuickTip: Every section builds on the last.
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Most cool-season crops prefer full sun, but if you're facing scorching afternoon heat, some partial shade can be beneficial, especially for lettuces and spinach.
How often should I water my August plantings?
Water regularly, especially during hot spells. Aim for deep watering that reaches the roots, rather than frequent shallow watering.
QuickTip: Repeat difficult lines until they’re clear.
How can I protect my August plantings from pests?
Floating row covers, netting, and handpicking are all great ways to deter unwanted visitors from your veggie buffet.
How do I harvest my fall vegetables?
Harvest your vegetables when they reach their mature size. For some crops, like lettuce, you can enjoy a continuous harvest by picking the outer leaves regularly.
So there you have it! With a little planning and these planting powerhouses, you can extend your harvest season well into fall and enjoy a bounty of fresh, delicious vegetables. Happy planting!
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