Extend The Gardening Season With These Five Vegetables That Are Perfect For Late Summer Planting

bmarya83 - stock.adobe.com-  illustrative purposes only
bmarya83 - stock.adobe.com- illustrative purposes only

Just because it’s late summer doesn’t mean the gardening season has to come to an end.

In fact, that’s far from the truth because this is actually the perfect time to plant some fast-growing, cool-weather-loving vegetables that will keep you harvesting well into the fall.

So, don’t let the shortening days deter you. Here are five vegetables you can get to planting right now to make the most of your late-summer garden.

Radishes: The Quick-Growing Crunchy Treat

If gardening were a race, then radishes would be the sprinters of the vegetable world.

All you have to do is plant some seeds one inch apart in rows that are 12 inches apart. Be sure to sow the seeds in well-drained soil with full to partial sun exposure.

Then, keep the soil evenly moist and thin the seedlings if they’re too close together.

Afterward, you just have to sit back and give the radishes only 30 days! In about a month’s time, you’ll be rewarded with a crunchy, peppery treat.

Spinach: It Thrives In Cooler Temperatures

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Spinach is a strong contender for the cooler temperatures of late summer.

Start by sowing the seeds half an inch deep and 2 to 3 inches apart in rich soil. Water it regularly and protect the plants from the hot sun if temperatures start to rise or become unpredictable.

Then, you can harvest the young leaves for tenderness and enjoy the nutritious benefits of this robust leafy green.

Lettuce: The Star Of Salads

For a garden-fresh salad, lettuce is your go-to. And who said salads are only for summer?

Just plant the seeds a quarter-inch deep and 1 inch apart in rows. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and watch out for those pesky garden munchers like slugs.

Lettuce grows quite well in cooler weather, and different varieties offer exciting textures and flavors for your culinary creations.

So, you can continue enjoying creative salads while swapping out beach days for cozy fall movie nights.

Swiss Chard: It’s Nutritious And Beautiful

Swiss Chard is not just nutritious. It’s also a gorgeous and colorful addition to your garden.

To get started, space seeds 6 to 12 inches apart in rows and find a sunny spot for planting.

Regular watering is essential with this veggie, and you can start harvesting when the leaves are young and tender.

Swiss Chard is a fantastic late-summer choice if you’re hoping to spruce up your dinner plate, as well as add a visual treat to your garden.

Kale: The Superfood That’s Trendy For A Reason

Kale has become a hit on social media, and luckily, it’s also pretty easy to grow in late summer.

Simply plant the seeds half an inch deep and 3 inches apart. Water well, and don’t forget to harvest the lower leaves first.

Kale’s resilience and rich nutritional profile make it a must-have for your late summer garden and meals as you transition to fall produce.

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Katharina Buczek graduated from Stony Brook University with a degree in Journalism and a minor in Digital Arts. Specializing ... More about Katharina Buczek

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