As the heat of summer reaches its peak, many gardeners may think it’s too late to plant anything new. However, the “dog days of summer” are actually an excellent time to sow seeds and transplant certain crops that will thrive as the days begin to cool. Late summer planting can lead to a bountiful fall harvest and even vibrant flower displays that extend your garden’s beauty well into the cooler months. Here’s a guide to what you can plant during these hot, hazy days.

Cool-Season Vegetables for a Fall Harvest

The scorching summer sun may seem too intense for planting, but many cool-season vegetables actually benefit from being planted in late summer. As the weather cools, these crops will flourish, providing fresh produce into the fall.

Lettuce and Spinach: These leafy greens are quick to mature, making them ideal for late summer planting. Sow the seeds directly into the garden and ensure they get plenty of water to combat the heat. As temperatures drop, you’ll be rewarded with tender, crisp leaves perfect for fresh salads.

Broccoli and Cauliflower: These brassicas are hardy and can withstand cooler temperatures, making them excellent candidates for late-summer planting. Start them from transplants if possible, and keep them well-watered. They will grow steadily through the warm days and produce heads as the weather cools.

Radishes: One of the fastest-growing vegetables, radishes can be sown directly into the soil in late summer. They mature in as little as three to four weeks, making them a quick and satisfying addition to your fall harvest.

Carrots and Beets: These root vegetables thrive in the cooler months. Sow the seeds directly into the garden, and they will develop sweet, crunchy roots by the time fall arrives. Carrots, in particular, become sweeter after a light frost, making them a delightful late-season treat.

Late Summer Flowers for Fall Blooms

While many summer flowers may be fading, late summer is the perfect time to plant a new wave of blooms that will keep your garden vibrant through fall. These flowers not only add beauty to your garden but also provide late-season nectar for pollinators.

Chrysanthemums: Often associated with fall, chrysanthemums (or “mums”) are a great choice for late-summer planting. Available in a wide range of colors, they will bloom beautifully as the days shorten and temperatures drop. Plant them in well-drained soil and give them plenty of sunlight for the best results.

Pansies: Known for their cheerful faces, pansies are surprisingly resilient and can be planted in late summer for autumn blooms. They prefer cooler weather and will provide color in your garden well into fall, even surviving light frosts.

Snapdragons: These tall, spiky flowers add vertical interest to the garden and can be planted in late summer for a second bloom in the fall. Snapdragons are cold-hardy and will continue to bloom even as temperatures dip.

Calendula: Also known as pot marigold, calendula is a versatile flower that can be planted in late summer. It thrives in cooler weather and produces bright, daisy-like flowers that will brighten your garden throughout the fall.

Tips for Late Summer Planting

Planting in the dog days of summer requires some extra care to ensure your new crops and flowers thrive. Here are a few tips:

• Water Regularly: The heat can quickly dry out the soil, so keep your garden well-watered, especially during the first few weeks after planting.
• Mulch: Mulching helps retain soil moisture and keeps roots cool, both of which are crucial during hot summer days.
• Shade Protection: For tender young plants, consider using shade cloth during the hottest part of the day to prevent wilting.

By planting the right crops and flowers during late summer, you can extend the growing season and enjoy a productive and beautiful garden well into the fall.