August is a month filled with an abundance of fruits and vegetables. It is the time when fruiting vegetables are in full flow and neighbors may leave marrows on tables at the end of their plots. Plums, apples, and pears should also start to come on stream this month.
Although we regret stopping the growth of tomatoes due to blight, our close neighbors are reaping rewards, which encourages us to try again next year. Peas and beans should be in abundance and it is important to remember to pinch out climbing bean tops. This month is also the perfect time to harvest chillies, peppers, aubergines, and cucumbers.
In our old broad bean bed, Kala’s red Thai corn is thriving. We eagerly await the silks turning color so that we can taste the corn. It would be a delightful experience to cook a couple of them on a camp stove at the plot.
August is also the time to lift alliums such as garlic, onions, and shallots. These should be laid out on open sunny soil to dry before storing for winter. Courgettes and squashes will also be ready for harvest. One must remember that today’s courgette is tomorrow’s marrow.
In addition to the abundant harvest, it is important to set aside a few peas and beans for next year’s sowing, as well as herbs like coriander and dill. Saving homegrown flowers such as tagetes, calendula, and nasturtium seeds can be a rewarding garden activity. These saved seeds can also be used as small gifts or for seed swaps.
With the approach of autumn, there are a few activities to add to your to-do list. Sow oriental leaves such as mizuna, mibuna, purple and red mustards. Chicories, chards, cabbages, kales, and spinach should also be sown where you have made space. Additionally, rocket, lettuces, and other salads can be sown using readymade mixes available online or in stores. This month may also be your last chance to sow carrot and turnip crops.
Finally, it is important to keep ponds topped up and to stay on top of weeding and watering. Enjoy the bountiful harvest and savor the joys of gardening.