The crisp mountain air, the scent of pine needles, and the vibrant hues of fall are all beckoning, signaling that summer’s reign in Colorado is coming to an end. But before you bid farewell to the growing season, there’s still time to plant a bounty of colorful blooms and delicious vegetables that will thrive in the cool, crisp weather of August.
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Imagine cozy evenings spent sipping hot cocoa by a crackling fire, surrounded by the vibrant colors of your very own late-blooming flowerbeds. Or picture the satisfaction of harvesting fresh vegetables for your family meals, even as the leaves begin to turn. This is the magic of gardening in Colorado, and August offers a unique opportunity to extend your harvest and enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons. Let’s dive into the world of August planting in Colorado.
Vegetables to Plant in August:
As the days shorten and the nights become cooler, the focus shifts toward vegetables that favor cooler temperatures. There’s a whole world of tasty treats waiting to be sown in August, making your garden a vibrant source of fresh produce well into autumn.
1. Cool-Season Veggies:
* **Lettuce:** Choose varieties like “Black Seeded Simpson” and “Buttercrunch” for a crisp salad experience.
* **Spinach:** “Bloomsdale” and “Space” spinach thrive in cooler conditions, adding a nutritious boost to your meals.
* **Radishes:** Quick-growing varieties like “Cherry Belle” and “French Breakfast” provide a satisfyingly spicy crunch.
* **Arugula:** This peppery green adds zing to salads and pasta dishes.
* **Kale:** “Redbor” and “Lacinato” kale bring a delightful crunch and nutritional benefits to your table.
* **Carrots:** Hardy varieties like “Imperator” and “Nantes” will happily grow in the cooler weather.
* **Turnips:** “White Lady” and “Tokyo Cross” turnips are a delicious addition to salads and roasted vegetable dishes.
* **Beets:** “Detroit Dark Red” and “Golden Beet” beets are perfect for harvesting in the late season.
2. Quick-Growing Herbs:
* **Cilantro:** This aromatic herb adds a fresh flavor to any dish.
* **Dill:** Great for adding a delightful flavor to pickles and salads.
* **Parsley:** A versatile herb that adds a vibrant green color and fresh flavor to many dishes.
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Flowers to Plant in August:
While the summer flowers are fading, August is a beautiful time to plant flowers that will bring a burst of color to your garden as the leaves change hues.
1. Hardy Annuals and Biennials:
* **Pansies:** These cheerful flowers come in a vibrant array of colors and will bloom until the first frost.
* **Violets:** Small but charming, violets add a touch of delicate beauty to your garden.
* **Calendula:** Often called pot marigold, these bright yellow blooms attract beneficial insects.
* **Snapdragons:** These cheerful flowers with their unique shapes and colors add a charming touch to your garden.
* **Stock:** These fragrant flowers are perfect for adding a sweet and spicy scent to your garden.
2. Fall-Blooming Perennials:
* **Asters:** Various colors and types of asters bring a splash of color to your garden in late summer and early fall.
* **Chrysanthemums:** These vibrant flowers come in a wide range of colors and shapes and are perfect for adding a touch of fall color to your garden.
* **Scabiosa:** These lovely flowers are often called pincushions due to their unique bloom shape and come in charming colors.
* **Sedum:** These succulent plants are known for their beautiful fall foliage and clusters of bright pink flowers.
Planting Tips for August Success:
Now that you’ve chosen your favorite plants, let’s ensure they flourish in the Colorado climate.
1. Soil Preparation:
* **Test Your Soil:** Before you plant, it’s essential to know your soil’s pH and nutrient levels. You can get a soil test kit at most garden centers.
* **Amend the Soil:** Based on the test results, amend your soil with compost, fertilizer, or lime to ensure optimal growing conditions.
2. Planting Techniques:
* **Direct Sowing:** For most cool-season vegetables and herbs, you can sow seeds directly into the ground. Remember to sow them in rows spaced according to the plant’s mature size.
* **Start Indoors (for Transplants):** Some vegetables and flowers, like broccoli and pansies, prefer a head start. Begin them indoors a few weeks before your average last frost date.
3. Watering Wisely:
* **Water Deeply:** Water your plants deeply but less often. Avoid shallow watering, as this encourages shallow roots.
* **Mulch:** A layer of organic mulch helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
What To Plant In August In Colorado
Expert Insights and Actionable Tips:
Embrace the cooler temperatures and enjoy the bounty of the season. The key to success in late-season gardening is timing and preparation. Start by planting your seeds or seedlings early in August to allow for optimal growth. Don’t hesitate to use row covers or cold frames to extend the growing season even further, especially for cool-season vegetables and herbs.
As always, pay attention to your plants! Regularly check for pests and diseases, and address problems promptly. With a little care and attention, you’ll be rewarded with a vibrant and delicious garden throughout autumn.
Conclusion:
August offers a unique opportunity to extend your gardening season in Colorado. By carefully selecting plants that thrive in cooler temperatures and implementing these tips, you can enjoy a late-season harvest of fresh vegetables and a vibrant display of flowers as the leaves begin to turn. So, don’t let the cooler weather discourage you. Embrace the opportunities of August planting, and let your garden flourish as the season changes. Remember, your garden is a reflection of your passion and dedication, bringing beauty, taste, and a sense of accomplishment to your life. Share your gardening experiences and any tips you’ve learned with fellow gardeners, and together, we can create a vibrant and bountiful community of gardeners in Colorado.
