Fall Garden Must-Haves: Why August Is the Time to Start Planting
When the sun is still high and the tomatoes are ripening on the vine, it’s easy to think garden season is winding down. But in the Willamette Valley of Oregon, and many other temperate zones, August is actually the perfect time to start planning and planting your fall garden. With the right tools and plants, you can keep your garden thriving well into late fall or even winter.
Here’s what you need to know—and what you’ll want to have on hand—to get the most out of your cool-season garden.
Why August?
In zones like 8b, where the Willamette Valley falls, August offers just enough warm days to help cool-season crops establish strong roots before the weather turns. The soil is still warm, which helps seeds germinate quickly, and there’s enough daylight left to give young plants a good start.
Not in the Willamette Valley? Double-check your gardening zone before planting. Local extension offices or the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map can help you dial in the right planting time for your area.
Fall Garden Must-Have Plants
Fall is all about cool-weather crops. These vegetables actually prefer the chill and taste sweeter after a frost or two.
Here are my go-to fall favorites:
Lettuce & Salad Greens (spinach, arugula, mustard greens) – Quick to grow and easy to succession plant.
Kale & Collards – Hardy, frost-tolerant, and sweeter in cooler temps.
Broccoli, Cauliflower & Cabbage – Start from transplants if you didn’t seed in July.
Radishes & Turnips – Fast-growing root crops perfect for fall.
Carrots – Plant now for a sweet late-season harvest.
Beets – Edible roots and greens, and they handle cool nights well.
Garlic (October planting) – Prep the space now, even if you’re planting later!
Fall Gardening Tools & Supplies
If you're planting in August, these fall garden essentials will help you succeed:
Row Covers or Frost Cloth: To keep tender seedlings warm during cold snaps and extend your harvest into late fall.
Soil Thermometer: Cool-season seeds germinate best in soil temps between 45–75°F. August’s warmth gives them a solid head start.
Moisture Meter: Cooler nights don’t mean you can stop watering—just be smarter about it. A moisture meter keeps you from over- or under-watering during transition weather.
Raised Beds or Cold Frames: They help warm soil faster and provide protection later in the season. Plus, raised beds drain well during Oregon’s rainy fall days.
Compost or Organic Fertilizer: Add nutrients before planting to fuel strong growth. Fall crops are fast-growing and need rich, healthy soil.
Pro Tip: Prep for Rain
Late fall in the Willamette Valley is wet. Consider mulching pathways and using bark chips or straw to reduce mud and protect your garden from compaction.
Final Tips
Stagger plantings every few weeks to enjoy a steady harvest.
Keep a cover crop mix handy to sow in empty beds by late September.
Mark your frost date (typically mid-to-late October for our region) and plan accordingly.
Fall gardening isn’t just for overachievers—it’s a secret weapon for year-round harvests. With just a bit of prep in August, you can enjoy crisp greens, root veggies, and cozy kitchen inspiration long after the summer garden fades.
Ready to dig in? Grab your seeds, refresh your beds, and make the most of Oregon’s second growing season!