August in USDA zones 7-8 presents a unique opportunity for gardeners to balance the waning summer heat with the promise of a bountiful fall harvest. These zones, characterized by their longer growing seasons and milder winters, offer an extended window for planting that many gardeners in cooler regions can only dream of.

As the dog days of summer begin to fade, zones 7-8 experience a sweet spot for gardening. The soil remains warm, promoting quick germination and robust root development, while the gradually cooling air temperatures create ideal conditions for many crops. This combination allows for a second planting season that can yield harvests well into the fall and, in some cases, even early winter.

However, August gardening in these zones isn’t without its challenges. Lingering summer heat can stress newly planted seedlings, and sporadic rainfall may necessitate vigilant watering. The key is to choose plants that can withstand the remaining summer heat while also tolerating the cooler temperatures to come.

One of the greatest advantages of zones 7-8 is the ability to plant both warm-season and cool-season crops in August. Fast-maturing summer vegetables can still produce a harvest before the first frost, while cool-season crops will thrive as temperatures drop, often providing fresh produce even after light frosts.

For gardeners in zones 7-8, August is far from the end of the growing season – it’s a new beginning. It’s a time to reassess, replant, and reinvigorate your garden. Whether you’re looking to extend your summer harvest, jumpstart your fall garden, or both, August planting in these zones offers a world of possibilities.

So, grab your gardening gloves, and let’s explore the diverse array of plants that thrive when sown in August in zones 7-8. From quick-growing greens to frost-tolerant root vegetables, and even some heat-loving summer crops, we’ll discover how to make the most of this transitional month in your garden. Get ready to transform your late-summer landscape into a thriving, productive oasis that will keep your table full of home-grown goodness for months to come!

What to Plant in USDA Zones 7-8 in August

Bush Beans

Bush beans are compact, fast-growing plants that produce tender, flavorful pods. They’re rich in protein, fiber, and various vitamins. August is an excellent time to plant bush beans in zones 7-8 because they mature quickly (usually within 50-60 days) and can tolerate the heat. The warm soil promotes fast germination, allowing you to enjoy a bountiful harvest before the first frost. Learn more about growing beans in our Beans Growing Guide.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are refreshing, crisp vegetables that are perfect for summer salads and pickling. They’re low in calories and a good source of vitamins K and C. Planting cucumbers in August in zones 7-8 works well because they love warm soil and have enough time to mature before cooler weather sets in. Choose bush varieties for smaller spaces or trellised vining types for vertical gardening. Learn more about growing cucumbers in our Cucumbers Growing Guide.

Summer Squash

Summer squash, including varieties like yellow squash and pattypan, are prolific producers in warm weather. They’re rich in vitamins A and C and provide a good source of fiber. August planting in zones 7-8 allows summer squash to take advantage of the remaining warm days while producing a harvest well into fall. Their fast growth means you’ll be enjoying fresh squash in no time. Learn more about growing summer squash in our Summer Squash Growing Guide.

Zucchini

Zucchini is a versatile summer squash known for its mild flavor and abundant yield. It’s low in calories but high in antioxidants and vitamin C. August is a great time to plant zucchini in zones 7-8 because it thrives in warm weather and grows quickly. You can expect to start harvesting within 6-8 weeks, providing you with plenty of zucchini for grilling, baking, and sautéing. Learn more about growing zucchini in our Zucchini Growing Guide.

Okra

Okra is a heat-loving vegetable known for its unique texture and ability to thrive in hot conditions. It’s high in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins C and K. In zones 7-8, August planting of okra takes advantage of the peak summer heat, which okra absolutely loves. The warm soil and long, hot days create ideal conditions for okra to flourish and produce an abundant crop. Learn more about growing okra in our Okra Growing Guide.

Peppers

Peppers, both sweet and hot varieties, are colorful and flavorful additions to any garden. They’re rich in vitamins C and A, and hot peppers are high in capsaicin. August is an excellent time to plant peppers in zones 7-8 because they love heat and have enough time to mature before frost. The warm soil promotes strong root development, leading to healthier plants and better fruit production. Learn more about growing peppers in our Bell Peppers Growing Guide and our Hot Peppers Growing Guide.

Eggplant

Eggplant is a beautiful, purple vegetable that’s low in calories and high in fiber and antioxidants. It thrives in hot weather, making August an ideal planting time in zones 7-8. The warm soil and long, hot days of late summer provide perfect conditions for eggplants to develop their fruit, allowing you to enjoy a bountiful harvest in the late fall. Learn more about growing eggplants in our Eggplant Growing Guide.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are beloved garden staples, rich in lycopene and vitamins C and K. While typically planted earlier, heat-tolerant varieties can be planted in August in zones 7-8. Choose determinate or early-maturing varieties to ensure a harvest before frost. The warm soil promotes fast root development, leading to strong, productive plants. Learn more about growing tomatoes in our Tomatoes Growing Guide.

Basil

Basil is a fragrant herb essential in many cuisines. It’s rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. August is a great time to plant basil in zones 7-8 because it loves warm weather and grows quickly. The hot days and warm nights of late summer create ideal conditions for basil to thrive, providing you with fresh, aromatic leaves for your culinary creations. Learn more about growing basil in our Basil Growing Guide.

Parsley

Parsley is a versatile herb that’s rich in vitamins A, C, and K. It’s known for its fresh flavor and ability to enhance many dishes. Planting parsley in August in zones 7-8 allows it to establish strong roots in the warm soil while benefiting from the slightly cooler temperatures as fall approaches. This results in lush, flavorful plants that can often overwinter in these milder zones. Learn more about growing parsley in our Parsley Growing Guide.

Sage

Sage is an aromatic herb with soft, gray-green leaves and a distinctive flavor. It’s rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. August planting in zones 7-8 gives sage time to establish before winter. The herb appreciates the warm soil for root development but also tolerates cooler temperatures, making it a great transition plant as summer turns to fall. Learn more about growing sage in our Sage Growing Guide.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a fragrant, evergreen herb that’s rich in antioxidants and has potential memory-enhancing properties. It’s well-suited for August planting in zones 7-8 because it loves warm, dry conditions. The hot days of late summer promote strong growth, while the herb’s drought-tolerance makes it perfect for the often dry conditions of August. It can also be an annual in zones 7-8. Learn more about growing rosemary in our Rosemary Growing Guide.

Thyme

Thyme is a low-growing herb with tiny, fragrant leaves. It’s high in vitamin C and is known for its antibacterial properties. Planting thyme in August in zones 7-8 allows it to establish strong roots before winter. Thyme thrives in the warm, well-draining soil typical of late summer and can often survive the winter in these zones, providing you with fresh herbs year-round. Learn more about growing thyme in our Thyme Growing Guide.

Strawberries

Strawberries are sweet, juicy fruits that are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. While they’re often planted in spring, August can be a good time to plant strawberries in zones 7-8 for a harvest the following year. The warm soil promotes strong root development, allowing the plants to establish well before winter dormancy. Learn more about growing strawberries in our Strawberries Growing Guide.

Raspberries

Raspberries are delicious, nutrient-dense berries high in fiber and antioxidants. August is a good time to plant raspberry canes in zones 7-8. The warm soil encourages strong root growth, helping the plants establish before winter. While you won’t get fruit immediately, planting in August sets you up for a bountiful harvest in the following years. Learn more about growing raspberries in our Raspberries Growing Guide.

These heat-loving crops will thrive in the August temperatures of zones 7-8 and provide you with a delicious harvest extending into the fall. Remember to keep your plants well-watered and mulched to help them withstand the August heat. And don’t forget to take a moment to sit back, relax, and enjoy the fruits (and veggies and herbs) of your labor!

What plants do you prefer for August planting in zones 7-8?