Still Sowing? These Crops Love a Late Start

By now, some gardeners have packed away their seed trays. But not us. August is still bursting with potential, and quick crops sown now can keep you harvesting well into autumn.

Start now, and with a little watering and protection, you will be eating fresh long after others have cleared their beds.

This Week's Tip: Crops to Sow in Mid-August

Radish & Rocket

Fast, punchy, and reliable. Ready to harvest in as little as 3 to 4 weeks.

Spring Onions

Sow now and harvest in early autumn. They need very little space.

Turnips

Ideal for late sowing and fast to mature. Sow direct, thin to 15 cm.

Spinach

Prefers the cooling light of August. Bolts less, tastes better in autumn.

Pak Choi & Oriental Greens

These love the shortening days. Sow now for a September harvest.

Winter Lettuce

Choose varieties bred for autumn growing. Sow under cover for extended cropping.

Resource of the Week

Want to keep growing fresh veg even as summer winds down? The Sowing Vegetable Seeds in August cheat sheet helps you take advantage of late-summer warmth to plant smart and harvest longer.

Lists 14 or more fast-growing, late-season vegetables you can still sow
Explains why each one thrives in August conditions
Includes tips on watering, soil prep, and heat protection
Fully printable and editable, great for your shed or planner

Download the August Seed Sowing Guide free

I use this exact plan in my own garden to stretch the season and fill gaps after early crops come out. It is the secret to harvesting right into autumn.

You reap what you sow,

Tony O'Neill

Green Thumb Digest, brought to you by Simplify Gardening

P.S. Next week: How to protect your seedlings from sneaky late frosts.

Next issue →

← Back to all issues