What to Plant in Texas in August: A Budget Gardener's Guide

August in Texas can be a challenging month for gardeners. The heat is still intense, the sun is strong, and water can become a precious resource. But that doesn't mean your garden has to take the month off!

In fact, August is a good time to start thinking about your fall garden. With a little planning, you can get new plants started now that will produce as the temperatures begin to cool.

The best part? You don't have to spend a lot of money to keep your garden growing.

Vegetables to Plant in Texas in August

Depending on where you live in Texas, August can be a good time to start planting vegetables for the fall growing season.

Some vegetables to consider include:

• Bush beans

• Cucumbers

• Summer squash

• Southern peas

• Okra

• Swiss chard

• Collard greens

• Mustard greens

As the month progresses and temperatures begin to moderate, you can also begin preparing for cool-season crops such as broccoli, cabbage, and kale.

Your exact planting schedule will depend on which part of Texas you live in. North Texas, Central Texas, and South Texas can have very different growing conditions, so always consider your local climate and first expected frost date.

Start Your Fall Garden From Seeds

One of the best ways to save money in the garden is to start plants from seed.

If you saved seeds from your garden earlier in the year, August can be a good time to put some of them to use. You can also look for inexpensive seed packets and plant several crops from a single packet.

Starting seeds yourself can save money compared with buying individual transplants. You can also save containers by reusing small pots, cups, or other suitable containers you already have around the house.

Just make sure any reused containers are clean and have adequate drainage.

Don't Forget About Herbs

August can also be a good time to grow herbs that tolerate warm weather.

Consider herbs such as:

• Basil

• Rosemary

• Thyme

• Oregano

Herbs are especially useful for budget gardeners because a single plant can provide fresh herbs for many meals.

Some herbs can also be propagated from cuttings, giving you another way to expand your garden without buying more plants.

Protect New Plants From the Texas Heat

The biggest challenge in August isn't always what you plant—it's keeping new plants alive.

Newly planted seeds and young seedlings need consistent moisture while they become established. Watering early in the morning can help reduce water loss from evaporation.

A layer of mulch around established plants can also help the soil retain moisture and keep the roots cooler.

If you are starting seedlings, consider giving them some protection from the harsh afternoon sun until they are established. A little shade during the hottest part of the day can make a big difference.

Look for Ways to Garden for Less

August is a good month to look around your garden before spending money.

Can you collect seeds from plants you've already grown? Can you propagate plants from cuttings? Can you reuse containers? Do you have compost or organic material that can improve your soil?

Budget gardening isn't necessarily about buying the cheapest product. It's about finding ways to use what you already have and getting the most from every dollar you spend.

Start Planning for Fall

Even though August is still hot in Texas, fall is just around the corner.

This is a good time to start thinking about what you want to grow when cooler weather arrives. Make a list of the vegetables and herbs you want to plant, check your seed supply, and begin preparing your garden beds.

A little planning now can save you money later and help you get your fall garden off to a good start.

Final Thoughts

August may be one of the hottest months of the year in Texas, but there is still plenty to do in the garden. With careful watering, some protection from the heat, and a little planning, you can keep growing while preparing for the fall season.

The key to budget gardening is to make the most of what you have. Save seeds, propagate plants when possible, reuse containers, and plan ahead.

The Texas heat may slow the garden down, but it doesn't have to stop it.

Happy gardening—and remember, you don't have to spend a fortune to grow something good!