As the days of summer start to shorten, August is the perfect time to prepare your landscape for the fall season. By tackling a few key tasks now, you can ensure your yard remains beautiful and healthy as the cooler weather sets in. In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential autumn landscaping tasks, outdoor maintenance, and lawn care projects that should be on your August to-do list. (Source: Family Handyman, 11 Things to Do in August to Get Your Garden Ready for Fall, by Mark Johanson, March 13, 2024, https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/11-things-to-do-in-august-to-get-your-garden-ready-for-fall/ ).

Plant Fall Crops

August is ideal for planting fall crops such as beans, cauliflower, and kale.

FSI Landscape Supply shares, “Choosing hardy and cold-tolerant plants like kale and chard is essential for creating a thriving fall garden that can withstand the cooler temperatures that come with the changing season. By selecting plants that are resilient to cold weather, you can ensure that your garden will continue to thrive well into the autumn months, providing you with a bountiful harvest. Additionally, enhancing the soil with high-quality amendments, such as compost or aged manure, can further boost the health and productivity of your plants. Incorporating these amendments into the soil will help provide essential nutrients and improve soil structure, creating an optimal growing environment for your crops. Protective covers, such as row covers or cloches, can also significantly improve crop yield and resilience in your fall garden. These covers can help protect plants from harsh weather conditions, pests, and diseases, ensuring that your garden remains healthy and productive throughout the season. You can set yourself up for a successful and rewarding gardening experience by taking these steps to care for your fall garden.”

Plant Trees and Shrubs

Late August is optimal for planting trees and shrubs, allowing them to establish roots before winter.

FSI Landscape Supply highlights, “Planting trees and shrubs in August allows them ample time to develop strong root systems before the winter. Utilizing high-quality mulch and soil conditioners supports root development and moisture retention.”

FSI Landscape Supply adds, “Don’t forget to prune! Pruning in late summer can help shape your trees and shrubs and remove any dead or diseased branches. Be careful not to over-prune, as this can stress the plants. Concentrate on eliminating any broken or intersecting branches to encourage healthy development.”

Divide Perennials

Dividing perennials like hostas and coneflowers in late August ensures vigorous growth next spring.

FSI Landscape Supply says, “Dividing perennials prevents overcrowding and promotes healthier growth. Employing sharp, clean tools and the right fertilizers aids in the process and ensures robust plants.”

Build a Cold Frame

Cold frames protect plants from early frosts, extending the growing season.

FSI Landscape Supply comments, “Constructing a cold frame prolongs the cultivation period by shielding vegetation from frost.

Using durable materials and ensuring proper ventilation prevents mold and mildew, keeping plants healthy.”

Refresh Your Garden Mulch

Mulch maintains soil moisture and temperature, which is crucial as the weather cools.

FSI Landscape Supply shares, “Refreshing mulch in late summer helps insulate plant roots and maintain soil moisture. As they break down, organic mulches enrich the soil with nutrients, fostering plant health.”

Fertilize Your Garden for a Fantastic Finish

Replenishing nutrients in August ensures plants are healthy through fall.

FSI Landscape Supply comments, “August is an excellent time to fertilize your lawn to prepare it for the cooler months. Select a slow-release fertilizer high in nitrogen to promote robust growth. Adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for application frequency and timing to prevent over-fertilization, which could harm your lawn.”

FSI Landscape Supply adds, “Before diving into more intensive tasks, take a moment to assess the overall health of your lawn. Look for areas that may need extra attention, such as bald spots, signs of disease, or pest infestations. Early detection allows you to address these problems before they worsen.”

Clean and Maintain Garden Tools

Well-maintained tools are essential for efficient gardening.

FSI Landscape Supply shares, “As you wrap up your outdoor projects for the season, allocate some time for properly cleaning and storing your gardening tools. This aids in prolonging their lifespan and ensures they’re ready for use next year. Proper maintenance also prevents the spread of diseases among plants.”

FSI Landscape Supply suggests the following:

1. Remove Dirt: Use a brush or hose to remove dirt and debris from your tools.
2. Sharpen Blades: Sharpen the blades of pruners, shears, and other cutting tools.
3. Oil Metal Parts: Apply a light coating of oil to metal parts to prevent rust.

Cut Back Your Herbs

Pruning herbs in August encourages fresh growth.

FSI Landscape Supply comments, “Cutting back herbs like basil and dill stimulates new growth and enhances flavor concentration. Techniques and tools for proper pruning are for maintaining healthy herb gardens.”

Order Fall-Planted Bulbs

Order bulbs now to ensure the best selection for fall planting.

FSI Landscape Supply shares, “Planning for spring by ordering fall-planted bulbs ensures the best selection. Proper storage in a cool, dry place until planting time is crucial.”

Prune Your Summer-Flowering Shrubs

Late summer pruning helps shape shrubs and remove dead wood.

FSI Landscape Supply, “Pruning summer-flowering shrubs in August promotes healthy growth and prepares them for the next blooming season. Clean, precise cuts using sharp tools are beneficial.”

Enjoy the Garden

Take time to appreciate your garden and plan for next year.

FSI Landscape Supply highlights, “Documenting your garden’s successes and challenges aids in future planning. Taking notes and photographs can help refine gardening strategies for the coming year.”

August is a busy month for landscaping professionals, but these tasks ensure a smooth transition into fall and a robust garden next spring.

FSI Landscape Supply concludes, “Preparing your garden in August sets the stage for year-round success. Strategic planning and quality supplies are key to maintaining a flourishing landscape throughout the seasons.”