What to Plant in Richmond This August (Yes, There’s Still Time!) 🌿
Late summer is rough and leaves us daydreaming of the cooler days ahead, but it doesn’t mean you can’t pretend and get a few plants in the ground —especially in RVA.
If your garden is looking a little tired by August, you’re not alone. Between the heat, pests, and overgrown summer plants, many Richmond yards are in need of a refresh right about now.
But here’s the good news: August is actually a great time to plant, especially if you’re into fall veggies, pollinator plants, or boosting your curb appeal before the cooler weather rolls in.
Here’s a list of plants you can confidently put in the ground this month in Richmond, VA—plus a few tips to make the job easier, especially if you’re renting tools instead of owning them.
🥬 Fall Veggies to Plant Now
Central Virginia’s growing season is long, which means you can squeeze in another round of fresh veggies before the first frost (usually early November in Richmond).
Direct-sow these seeds in August:
Collard greens
Kale
Spinach
Turnips
Beets
Radishes
Carrots
Lettuce
Mustard greens
These plants love cooler nights and will take off as September rolls in. Just be sure to keep your beds moist while seeds germinate—August heat can dry them out fast.
💡 Pro tip: Use a garden tiller to loosen soil before planting, and a 100-ft garden hose to keep everything watered without dragging buckets around.
🌸 Pollinator-Friendly Perennials
Want something that comes back next year and helps local bees and butterflies? August is a great time to plant perennials, especially if you're prepping a fall pollinator patch.
Try planting:
Black-eyed Susans
Coneflowers
Bee balm
Goldenrod
Russian sage
Coreopsis
These perennials are hardy, low-maintenance, and will reward you next summer for getting them in the ground now. Plus, they look great through fall.
🛠 Tools to make it easier: Use a wheelbarrow for transporting mulch or compost and a cordless drill if you're adding edging or raised bed frames.
🍓 Start Planning (and Planting) for Spring
If you're thinking way ahead, August is also a good time to prep for plants that bloom or produce in early spring.
Now’s the time to:
Plant garlic cloves (late August into September)
Divide and replant iris or daylily clumps
Start prepping beds for bulbs like daffodils and tulips (to plant in September or October)
👩🌾 August Planting Tips for RVA Gardeners
Mulch is your friend. August sun can be brutal. Mulch helps retain moisture, keeps weeds down, and gives your beds a clean look.
Water deeply, not often. Give your new plants a long drink a few times a week instead of light watering every day.
Check for pests. Cabbage worms, aphids, and beetles love late-season veggies. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can help keep things in check.
💦 Need to wash down garden gear, raised beds, or dirty patio pots? Rent a power washer for a quick clean that makes everything look new again.
🌿 Ready to Dig In?
There’s still plenty of life left in your garden this year. With the right plants and a few borrowed tools, you can revive your outdoor space and set yourself up for fall harvests and spring blooms.
Click Explore Tools below to rent exactly what you need—no need to own it, store it, or spend a fortune just to get your hands dirty.