Seasonal Changes: August
In climate zone 6, July 21st is on average the hottest day, and June 21st has the longest sunlight.
By August, it is still hot, days are still long, but changes are happening.
Most years, the grass is browning out. Some birds, like orioles and male hummingbirds, are already migrating south.
It is hot, still humid, and plants that like rain are probably struggling.
Throughout much of the heartland, chiggers and other pests are in the peak of their season.
August is a good time to think about pests, diseases, and shade. Fall is coming soon, and fall planting is not far away.
A lot of people ignore their green house during August. But it is a good time to use the controlled environment of a greenhouse to be ready for the next opportunity.
In August it is important to control shade, temperature, pests, and disease. But is also a great time to prepare fall seeds. Fall seedlings don’t need the higher temperature or direct sun of summer plants, so adjusting your green house for a protected environment that gets you ready for fall gives you a jump-start.
Getting plants started in August so you have the beautiful plants you want in October that will last through November and beyond makes sense and save money.
Have a plan in place in early August to begin growing what you want to have by Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. It may seem a long way off, but it isn’t!