It’s Not Too Late

Every year in early August I start to feel a sense of anxiety that the summer is almost over and I haven’t made the most of it. In June I have a vision of all I want to experience in the coming months - trips to the beach, outdoor movies, music festivals, hikes in the woods, lake swims, kayaking, fancy gelato, etc. By early August I realize that many of these things haven’t happened and there are scant weeks left. Mostly I didn’t do the fun things because daily life got in the way and I didn’t make plans. (I’m also aware that my expectations are likely unrealistic and based on an idea of summer rather than reality, especially at this point in my life and in 2026 when the world is on fire - literally and figuratively.)

This year I’m determined to approach August differently. I’m working on savoring the special moments I’ve had so far this summer, including a few glorious hikes in Ireland, an afternoon of dancing on a Brooklyn rooftop, and many leisurely meals with friends and family. Plus, I have another month to make things happen.

It’s also not too late to get some things done in your garden. In fact, August is a great time for certain tasks:

Shop for trees, shrubs or perennials  

Yes, you can plant in August. Take advantage of the sales that many nurseries offer and the warm soil temperatures. Plant in the morning when it’s cooler and make sure to water deeply. Adding a tree or late summer/fall blooming perennials like coneflowers, asters, black-eyed susan, sedum or ornamental grasses can transform your outdoor space for the rest of the season as well as for years to come. 

Order bulbs and corms

One thing I love about gardening is that it helps us notice the present moment as well as look forward to the future. If you want early spring blooms like tulips, daffodils, crocuses, or hyacinths, place an order for the bulbs soon so that you’ll be ready to plant them this fall. Note: also consider planting spring ephemerals that are native to your region and provide sources of nectar for emerging pollinators.  

Spruce up your containers 

Some of my pots start to look pretty sad at this time of year. Deadheading spent blooms, removing sun-burned foliage or adding a few fresh annuals can make a big difference. If you haven’t been adding an organic fertilizer to your containers, do so now to replace the nutrients in the potting soil that have been leached.  

Plant vegetables and herbs

Depending on where you live, now might be the time to sow seeds for a fall harvest of cool season crops like carrots, radishes, beets, leafy greens and herbs. To determine when to plant, find out your average first frost date, check the seed packet’s “days to harvest”, count backwards and add a few days to account for less sunlight.  

Make the most of the month of August! Treat yourself to that fancy gelato, a hike or a swim. Maybe ask a friend to join so that you have someone to hold you accountable.

And if you need someone to help make things happen in the garden, I’m here for you.