As gardeners in USDA zones 9-10, August presents  a unique set of challenges and opportunities. While much of the country is winding down their summer gardens, you’re gearing up for a second round of planting in some of the hottest conditions of the year.

August in zones 9-10 is characterized by scorching temperatures, often soaring well into the 90s or even breaking 100°F. The sun beats down relentlessly, and rainfall can be scarce, leading to dry, parched soil. These extreme conditions can be tough on both plants and gardeners alike.

But don’t let the heat deter you! With proper planning and the right plant selection, August can be an incredibly productive month in the garden. The key is to work with nature, not against it. We need to choose heat-loving plants that thrive in these tropical-like conditions and employ smart watering and mulching techniques to conserve moisture.

One of the biggest challenges we face is keeping our plants hydrated. The intense heat can quickly dry out soil, stressing plants and potentially leading to sunscald or bolt. However, this warm soil also presents an opportunity – it’s perfect for quick germination and rapid growth of heat-loving crops.

Despite these challenges, August planting in zones 9-10 allows us to take full advantage of our long growing season. While gardeners in cooler zones are preparing for frost, we’re sowing seeds for crops that will produce well into fall and even winter.

So, grab your sunhat and water bottle, and let’s dive into the world of August planting in zones 9-10. I’ve put together a list of heat-tolerant plants that will not just survive, but thrive in our intense summer conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned desert gardener or new to the challenges of hot-climate horticulture, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s turn the dog days of summer into the most productive time in our gardens!

What to Plant in USDA Zones 9-10 in August

Okra

Okra is a heat-loving vegetable that thrives in the hottest conditions. It’s high in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins C and K. August is the perfect time to plant okra in zones 9-10 because it absolutely loves the intense summer heat. The warm soil and long, hot days create ideal conditions for okra to flourish and produce an abundant crop well into fall. Learn more about growing okra in our Okra Growing Guide.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are nutritious root vegetables rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. August planting in zones 9-10 gives sweet potatoes plenty of time to develop their tubers before cooler weather sets in. They love the heat and will thrive in the warm soil, producing a bountiful harvest in late fall or early winter. Learn more about growing sweet potatoes in our Sweet Potatoes Growing Guide.

Pineapple

Pineapples can be started from the tops of store-bought fruits. Planting in August in zones 9-10 gives them time to root and establish before winter. They love the heat and will thrive in the warm, humid conditions. Pineapples will need frost protection if such a weather event occurs.

Guava

Guava trees are well-suited to the climate of zones 9-10. Planting in August allows them to establish strong roots in the warm soil, preparing them for fruit production in the following years.

Turmeric

This tropical rhizome loves heat and humidity. Planting turmeric in August in zones 9-10 gives it plenty of time to establish before the cooler months, setting you up for a harvest the following year.

Mexican Tarragon

Mexican tarragon is a heat-loving herb with a flavor similar to French tarragon. It’s rich in antioxidants and has potential digestive benefits. August planting in zones 9-10 is ideal as this herb thrives in hot, dry conditions. It will establish quickly in the warm soil and continue to grow through fall and winter.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a tropical herb with a citrusy flavor, often used in Southeast Asian cuisine. It’s rich in antioxidants and has potential anti-inflammatory properties. August is a perfect time to plant lemongrass in zones 9-10 as it loves hot weather. The warm soil and long, hot days will encourage rapid growth, providing you with fresh lemongrass for months to come.

Southern Peas (Black-eyed Peas, Crowder Peas)

Southern peas are legumes that are extremely heat and drought-tolerant. They’re rich in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. Planting in August in zones 9-10 allows these peas to take full advantage of the hot weather they love, producing a generous harvest before cooler temperatures arrive. Learn more about growing peas in our Peas 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 9-10. The intense heat and warm soil provide perfect conditions for eggplants to develop their fruit, allowing you to enjoy a bountiful harvest well into fall. Learn more about growing eggplants in our Eggplant Growing Guide.

Peppers (Hot and Sweet)

Peppers, both hot and sweet 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 9-10 because they love intense heat. The warm soil promotes strong root development, leading to healthier plants and better fruit production that can continue into winter. Learn more about growing peppers in our Bell Peppers Growing Guide and our Hot Peppers Growing Guide.

Tomatoes (Heat-tolerant varieties)

While tomatoes are typically planted earlier, heat-tolerant varieties can be planted in August in zones 9-10. Choose varieties like ‘Solar Fire’, ‘Florida 91’, or cherry tomatoes that can withstand high temperatures. The warm soil promotes fast root development, leading to strong, productive plants that can continue producing into winter. Learn more about growing tomatoes in our Tomatoes Growing Guide.

Pumpkins

Pumpkins are a fun and rewarding crop to grow. They’re rich in vitamins A and C, and their seeds are a good source of protein and healthy fats. Planting pumpkins in August in zones 9-10 gives them plenty of time to mature before Halloween. They love the heat and will thrive in the warm soil and long, hot days of late summer. Learn more about growing pumpkins in our Pumpkins Growing Guide.

Winter Squash

Winter squash, such as butternut or acorn squash, are nutrient-dense vegetables rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. August planting in zones 9-10 allows these long-season crops to take advantage of the remaining warm weather while producing a harvest in late fall or early winter. Learn more about growing winter squash in our Winter Squash Growing Guide.

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 9-10 because they mature quickly and can tolerate the heat. The warm soil promotes fast germination, allowing you to enjoy multiple harvests before cooler weather sets in. Learn more about growing beans in our Beans Growing Guide.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are refreshing, crisp vegetables 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 9-10 works well because they love warm soil and will continue producing into fall. Choose heat-tolerant varieties for best results. Learn more about growing cucumbers in our Cucumbers Growing Guide.

These heat-loving crops will thrive in the August temperatures of zones 9-10 and provide you with a delicious harvest extending into the fall and winter. Remember to keep your plants well-watered and mulched to help them withstand the intense 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 9-10?