Welcome to early August on the farm, the heart of summer and a bridge to fall’s promise. It’s the season when summer’s bounty ripens, new seedlings take root, and farmers lay the groundwork for autumn’s harvest.
What to Be Harvesting
In early August on the farm, abundance reigns. Just like Martha Stewart’s garden, farms are bursting with beans, artichokes, peppers, eggplants, tomatoes, and radishes in full bloom. Daily checks yield something fresh—like vines heavy with tomatoes turning red and ready to be picked.
This is also prime time for berries like blueberries, brimming with flavor and antioxidants, and perfect for snacking or preserves.
Summer Favorites to Stock Up On
- Tomatoes at peak ripeness
- Eggplants and peppers ready for stuffing and roasting
- Beans and radishes harvested crisp and fresh
- Blueberries sweetest just now
What to Plant for a Fall Harvest
Even in the heat of early August, planting doesn’t stop. It’s smart to start fast-maturing and cool-weather crops that will thrive in autumn’s gentler days:
- Kale, broccoli, lettuce, radishes, spinach, turnips, and Swiss chard are ideal for fall seeding. Many grow to harvest in just a few weeks.
- Carrots, beets, and cabbage also do well when sown now for a flavorful fall yield.
Preparing for the Season Ahead
To keep the momentum going:
- Keep the harvest strong by weeding, mulching, and feeding your fruiting plants, like tomatoes, for continued productivity.
- Prune, clean beds, and check irrigation to ensure plants stay healthy through the heat.
- And don’t forget to start seeds for fall veggies now so they are ready to transplant as summer ends.
Why It Matters
Early August on the farm isn’t just about managing the moment—it’s about striking a balance. Farmers gather summer’s harvest while planting the seeds of fall, ensuring continuous productivity. With intentional planting and care, the farm transitions seamlessly from one growing season to the next.
