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Crops To Grow In New York

Best Crops to Grow in New York This August – Late Summer Planting Guide

The growing season in New York is still going strong! August is a great month to start a fall garden with crops that thrive in cooler weather. Whether you’re already picking the last of your summer vegetables or regretting not planting earlier, there’s still time to get a productive harvest. Below, we’ll walk you through the best crops to grow in New York so you can enjoy a fresh crop before the cold truly kicks in.

Tips for Planting in August

Hot summer conditions—like dry soil and intense heat—can make it tough for seeds sown directly outdoors to thrive.

Here are some helpful tips for planting directly in the ground this August:

  • Keep the soil consistently damp to encourage quicker and more even seed germination during hot days.
  • Use shade cloth, row covers, or mini hoop tunnels to protect heat-sensitive seedlings, such as lettuce, from the harsh sun.
  • Choose quick-maturing varieties to ensure they’re ready before the season ends.
  • Check your local first frost date—most areas in New York can expect it around late October—so you can choose crops that will mature in time.

Vegetables to Grow in New York in August

Kale 

Kale thrives in cooler weather and usually takes about 2–3 months to reach maturity. In New York, August is an ideal time to plant fast-growing varieties for an early fall harvest or let them grow into late fall, even enjoying them around Thanksgiving.

Sow seeds directly into loamy, well-draining soil, and water consistently during dry spells. Since kale doesn’t tolerate heat well, you can plant it in a slightly shaded area if temperatures remain high. 

Swiss Chard

You can succession sow chard from spring through summer, but August is your final window to plant it for a winter harvest. Sow seeds directly into shallow rows or start them in pots filled with moist, peat-free compost. Swiss chard is a hardy and versatile plant, making it an excellent choice for late-season gardening in New York.

Radish

Radishes grow incredibly fast; some varieties are ready to harvest in just 4 weeks. Their small size makes them perfect for tucking between slower-growing plants as space fillers.

These crisp, peppery roots add a burst of flavor to salads and make a great garden snack. You can also roast or pickle them to enhance their naturally earthy taste.

Sow radish seeds in light, well-drained soil—there’s no need for extra fertilizer. Keep the soil consistently damp and harvest them young for the best texture and flavor.

Lettuce

Growing lettuce in August sets you up for an early winter harvest in New York. As temperatures start to dip in late September, use cloches or row covers to shield the young plants.

You can also overwinter lettuce in a cold frame or an unheated greenhouse to enjoy fresh leaves from early spring through late spring or early summer. Select hardy varieties and keep the soil consistently moist to promote steady growth.

Herbs to Grow in New York in August

Thyme

Thyme is an easy-to-grow perennial herb in New York and thrives when planted in late summer or early fall. It prefers full sunlight and well-drained soil.

Start thyme from young plants or cuttings in August, as seeds can take a long time to germinate. Once established, thyme needs very little care—just occasional watering during dry spells. It’s drought-tolerant, cold-hardy, and continues to produce flavorful leaves well into fall. Snip the sprigs as needed for cooking or dry them for winter use.

Parsley

Parsley is one of the toughest herbs you can grow. It can handle temperatures down to 10°F, making it a reliable choice for late-season planting in New York. Aim to sow it at least ten weeks before the first expected frost for the best results.

Germination can be tricky, but soaking the seeds in water overnight before planting helps to speed up the process. Grow parsley in moist, well-drained soil and give it a partly sunny spot. Once it’s established, you’ll have a steady supply of fresh leaves well into the colder months.

Oregano

Oregano is a tough perennial that thrives in New York’s climate when planted in late summer or early fall. It prefers full sunlight and well-drained soil.

In August, it’s best to start oregano from cuttings or young plants, as growing from seed takes time. Once established, oregano is a low-maintenance and drought-tolerant plant. Trim the stems to encourage bushier growth and to harvest fresh leaves for cooking. You can also dry the leaves at the end of the season for use throughout the winter.

FAQs

Can I start herbs like thyme and oregano in August?

Yes! As long as you plant in well-drained soil and give them sunlight, they’ll establish before the first frost.

What vegetables grow fast enough to harvest before frost?

Radishes, baby lettuce, and some kale varieties mature quickly and are great for last-minute planting.

How often should I water herbs in late summer?

Keep the soil damp during dry periods, but avoid overwatering—most herbs prefer slightly dry soil.

 

Tanzil Mansoori (Gardener)
Tanxil Mansoori

Tanzil Mansoori is a gardening expert with a decade of experience in organic gardening, seed starting and saving, growing heirloom plants, perennials, annuals, and sustainable and urban farming. His experience encompasses firsthand knowledge of best practices for success.

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