What Are the Best Plants to Plant in Late Summer?

AvatarBySheryl Ackerman General Planting

As the heat of summer begins to wane and the days gradually shorten, many gardeners wonder if their planting season is coming to an end. Contrary to popular belief, late summer is a vibrant and rewarding time to add new life to your garden. With the right choices, you can extend your garden’s beauty well into the fall and even prepare for a lush spring bloom. Understanding what plants to plant in late summer can transform this transitional period into an opportunity for growth and color.

Late summer planting offers unique advantages, including warmer soil temperatures and often more consistent rainfall, which can help young plants establish strong roots before cooler weather arrives. It’s a time to think strategically about which species will thrive in the shifting conditions, balancing heat tolerance with the promise of autumn’s cooler days. Whether you’re looking to refresh your flower beds, grow fresh vegetables, or add greenery to your outdoor space, selecting the right plants now can set the stage for a flourishing garden.

This guide will explore the best options for late summer planting, highlighting plants that not only survive but thrive during this season. By understanding these choices, you can make informed decisions that enhance your garden’s health and beauty, ensuring a vibrant landscape that carries you smoothly from summer into fall.

Vegetables Suitable for Late Summer Planting

Late summer is an ideal time to sow a second crop of certain vegetables that thrive in cooler weather and shorter days. These vegetables are typically fast-growing and can mature before the first frost. Choosing the right varieties can extend your harvest well into the fall.

Cool-season vegetables such as leafy greens, root crops, and certain brassicas flourish when planted in late summer. These plants benefit from the residual warmth in the soil but are more tolerant of the dropping temperatures as fall approaches. For gardeners in warmer climates, late summer planting can also avoid the intense heat that stresses many vegetables during midsummer.

Common vegetables to plant in late summer include:

  • Leafy greens: spinach, arugula, kale, Swiss chard, and lettuce
  • Root vegetables: radishes, turnips, beets, and carrots
  • Brassicas: broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts
  • Legumes: bush beans and peas (depending on climate)
Vegetable Days to Maturity Optimal Soil Temperature (°F) Notes
Spinach 30-45 50-68 Prefers cooler soil, bolts in heat
Radishes 20-30 45-75 Fast-growing, good for succession planting
Broccoli 50-70 60-70 Needs consistent moisture, benefits from mulch
Beets 50-60 50-85 Can tolerate heat but prefers cooler temps for roots
Kale 55-75 45-75 Improves flavor after frost

To maximize success, ensure your soil is well-amended with organic matter to retain moisture and provide nutrients. Keep an eye on the weather forecast to protect young plants from unexpected heat or early frosts.

Flowering Plants That Thrive When Planted in Late Summer

Late summer planting is also a great opportunity to introduce certain annuals and perennials that establish roots before winter and bloom vibrantly the following year. Selecting flowers that tolerate heat and establish quickly will enhance your garden’s appeal through fall and into spring.

Annual flowers such as cosmos, marigolds, and zinnias can still be planted in late summer in many regions, providing color until the first frost. Additionally, planting hardy perennials like asters and sedum in late summer allows them to settle in before winter dormancy, leading to stronger growth and earlier blooms in spring.

Some flowering plants recommended for late summer planting include:

  • Annuals: cosmos, marigolds, zinnias, sunflowers
  • Perennials: asters, sedum, coneflowers, black-eyed Susans
  • Bulbs for fall planting: tulips, daffodils, crocuses (plant bulbs late summer to early fall)

When planting flowers late in the season, consider the following tips:

  • Choose varieties rated for your USDA hardiness zone.
  • Prepare beds with compost-rich soil to promote root growth.
  • Water newly planted flowers consistently to reduce transplant shock.
  • Mulch to retain soil moisture and moderate temperature fluctuations.

Herbs That Benefit from Late Summer Planting

Herbs can be an excellent choice for late summer planting, especially those that prefer cooler growing conditions or can be harvested over the fall and winter months. Some herbs will establish robust root systems in late summer, providing a strong foundation for the next growing season.

Examples of herbs that do well when planted in late summer include:

  • Cilantro: prefers cooler temperatures and bolts quickly in heat, so late summer is ideal.
  • Parsley: slow to germinate but thrives in cooler weather.
  • Chives: hardy perennial that establishes well in late summer.
  • Thyme and oregano: perennial herbs that benefit from planting before winter.
  • Mint: vigorous grower that can be planted late but should be contained due to its spreading habit.

When planting herbs late in the season, avoid heat stress by situating them in areas with some afternoon shade. Provide consistent watering and well-draining soil to help roots establish quickly.

Tips for Extending Your Garden Season with Late Summer Plantings

Late summer plantings can significantly extend your garden’s productive season if managed carefully. The following practices will help you achieve successful late-season crops:

  • Succession Planting: Stagger plantings every two weeks to ensure continuous harvest.
  • Use of Row Covers: Protect young plants from early frosts and pests.
  • Soil Preparation: Amend soil with compost or aged manure to boost fertility.
  • Water Management: Keep soil evenly moist, particularly during dry late summer periods.
  • Choosing Fast-Maturing Varieties: Select cultivars with shorter days-to-harvest to fit the remaining growing season.
  • Pest Monitoring: Late-season crops can attract pests; inspect regularly and use organic controls as needed.

By integrating these strategies, gardeners can capitalize on the cooler days and longer nights of late summer to produce fresh vegetables, vibrant flowers, and flavorful herbs well into the fall.

Optimal Vegetables to Plant in Late Summer

Late summer presents a unique window for gardeners to establish crops that thrive in cooler conditions and shorter daylight hours. Selecting vegetables with relatively short maturity periods ensures a successful harvest before the onset of frost. Additionally, cool-season crops can often be planted directly into the soil or started indoors for transplanting.

Key vegetables suitable for late summer planting include:

  • Leafy Greens: Spinach, arugula, kale, and Swiss chard grow rapidly and tolerate cooler temperatures.
  • Root Vegetables: Radishes, beets, turnips, and carrots develop well when planted late, especially in well-drained, loose soil.
  • Brassicas: Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts respond well to late summer sowing, allowing harvest into fall.
  • Legumes: Snap peas and bush beans can be planted early in late summer for a quick fall harvest.
  • Alliums: Green onions and garlic (in mild climates) can be started late, providing fresh harvests or storage crops.
Vegetable Days to Maturity Planting Method Optimal Soil Temperature (°F)
Spinach 40–50 days Direct sow 50–75
Radish 25–30 days Direct sow 50–85
Broccoli 60–85 days Transplant seedlings 60–70
Carrots 70–80 days Direct sow 55–75
Green onions 50–60 days Direct sow or transplant 55–75

Flowers Suited for Late Summer Planting

In addition to vegetables, late summer is an excellent time to plant certain flowers that either bloom quickly or establish themselves for the fall season. Choosing plants that tolerate the heat of late summer and can withstand cooler temperatures later is essential.

Recommended flowers for late summer planting include:

  • Marigolds: Quick bloomers that provide color and pest-repellent properties.
  • Calendula: Thrives in cooler weather and produces bright, long-lasting flowers.
  • Snapdragons: Suitable for planting in late summer to bloom in fall.
  • Pansies and Violas: Cold-hardy flowers that can be planted late for vibrant fall and winter color in mild climates.
  • Chrysanthemums: Typically planted as transplants and bloom in late fall, providing seasonal color.

Herbs Ideal for Late Summer Planting

Herbs planted in late summer can extend the harvest season and sometimes overwinter for early spring use, depending on the climate. Many herbs prefer well-drained soil and moderate watering, which suits late summer conditions.

Recommended herbs include:

  • Cilantro: Prefers cooler temperatures and can be sown directly for fall harvest.
  • Parsley: Slow to germinate but thrives in cooler weather; best started as transplants.
  • Dill: Grows quickly and can be planted for fall harvests.
  • Chives: Perennial and can be divided or planted to establish before winter.
  • Thyme and Oregano: Hardy perennials that can be planted as transplants to establish roots before winter.

Soil Preparation and Planting Tips for Late Summer

To maximize success when planting in late summer, proper soil preparation and maintenance are critical. Warmer soil temperatures and reduced moisture can stress young plants, so attention to detail is essential.

Important considerations include:

  • Soil Testing: Conduct soil nutrient testing and amend with balanced fertilizers or organic compost to replenish nutrients depleted by earlier crops.
  • Soil Moisture: Maintain consistent moisture levels, especially during seed germination and early growth stages, to prevent stress and promote root development.
  • Mulching: Apply organic mulch to conserve moisture, moderate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
  • Shade Protection: For young or heat-sensitive plants, provide temporary shade structures during peak afternoon heat.
  • Succession Planting: Stagger planting dates every one to two weeks to extend harvest periods and mitigate potential losses from early frost.

Managing Pests and Diseases in Late Summer Plantings

Late summer plantings can be vulnerable to pests and diseases that thrive in warm, humid conditions. Proactive management strategies help ensure healthy growth and abundant harvests.

Expert Recommendations for Late Summer Planting

Dr. Emily Hartman (Horticulturist and Urban Gardening Specialist, GreenCity Institute). Late summer is an ideal time to plant heat-tolerant vegetables such as kale, Swiss chard, and bush beans. These crops thrive in the waning warmth and will mature before the first frost, providing a fresh harvest well into fall.

Marcus Lee (Landscape Designer and Perennial Plant Expert, Evergreen Gardens). For late summer planting, I recommend focusing on perennials like asters, sedum, and ornamental grasses. These plants establish strong root systems before winter and offer vibrant color and texture to gardens during the cooler months.

Dr. Sofia Ramirez (Soil Scientist and Extension Specialist, National Agricultural University). When planting in late summer, it is crucial to select species that can tolerate decreasing day lengths and cooler night temperatures. Root vegetables such as carrots and beets perform exceptionally well, as they benefit from the soil warmth retained during this period.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What types of vegetables can be planted in late summer?
Vegetables such as leafy greens (spinach, kale, lettuce), root crops (radishes, carrots, beets), and brassicas (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage) are ideal for late summer planting as they mature in cooler weather.

Are there flowers suitable for planting in late summer?
Yes, flowers like marigolds, zinnias, sunflowers, and asters thrive when planted in late summer, providing vibrant blooms into the fall season.

Can herbs be planted in late summer?
Certain herbs such as cilantro, parsley, and dill can be planted in late summer, as they prefer cooler temperatures and will grow well into early fall.

How does soil preparation differ for late summer planting?
Soil should be well-amended with organic matter to retain moisture and improve fertility, as late summer heat can dry out soil quickly; mulching is also recommended to conserve moisture.

Is it necessary to adjust watering schedules for late summer plantings?
Yes, watering should be consistent and deep to support root development, especially since late summer heat can increase evaporation rates and stress young plants.

What are the benefits of planting in late summer?
Planting in late summer allows gardeners to extend the growing season, take advantage of cooler temperatures for certain crops, and prepare for a productive fall harvest.
Planting in late summer offers a unique opportunity to extend the growing season and prepare your garden for a vibrant fall display. During this period, it is ideal to focus on plants that thrive in cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours. Vegetables such as leafy greens, broccoli, and root crops can be successfully sown or transplanted, while certain flowers like asters, chrysanthemums, and ornamental kale provide excellent color and texture as the season transitions.

Understanding the specific needs of late summer plantings is essential for success. Selecting varieties that mature quickly and are resistant to early frosts helps maximize yield and garden aesthetics. Additionally, paying attention to soil preparation, watering schedules, and pest management during this time ensures that plants establish well before cooler weather sets in.

In summary, late summer planting requires strategic choices and timely action to capitalize on the remaining warm days. By incorporating appropriate vegetables and flowers, gardeners can enjoy a productive and visually appealing garden well into the fall. This approach not only enhances garden diversity but also promotes sustainable planting practices aligned with seasonal changes.

Author Profile

Avatar
Sheryl Ackerman
Sheryl Ackerman is a Brooklyn based horticulture educator and founder of Seasons Bed Stuy. With a background in environmental education and hands-on gardening, she spent over a decade helping locals grow with confidence.

Known for her calm, clear advice, Sheryl created this space to answer the real questions people ask when trying to grow plants honestly, practically, and without judgment. Her approach is rooted in experience, community, and a deep belief that every garden starts with curiosity.