Just because summer’s winding down doesn’t mean your garden has to. In fact, late August is the perfect time to plant fast-growing crops that love cooler nights and still-warm days. These veggies and greens don’t just survive in early fall—they thrive, often tasting better than when grown in peak heat.
From crisp radishes to tender spinach and flavorful turnips, these plants grow quickly, resist bolting, and bring fresh flavor to your table just when most gardens are winding down. Many can be harvested in as little as 30–45 days, meaning you’ll be enjoying a homegrown fall feast while others are pulling up the last of their summer tomatoes.
This list features 17 reliable, delicious crops that you can still sow before the end of the month—and reap the rewards well into fall. Whether you have raised beds, balcony containers, or a backyard plot, now’s your chance to extend the season and fill your plate with garden-fresh meals a little longer.
Spinach
Known for its quick growth, spinach is a favorite among late-season gardeners. With its vibrant green leaves, it thrives in the cooler temperatures of fall, offering rich nutrients for your table.
Radishes
Radishes are the epitome of quick and crunchy. They mature fast and come in vibrant colors, perfect for adding a peppery snap to salads. Plant them now and enjoy their bounty in just a few weeks.
Lettuce
Nothing beats the crispness of freshly picked lettuce. Quick to grow and versatile, it can turn any dish into a fresh delight. Sow different varieties for a colorful and textured harvest.
Kale
Kale is the cool-season champion, thriving as temperatures drop. Its nutrient-packed leaves are perfect in salads, smoothies, and soups, making it a must-have for any fall garden.
Beets
With their earthy sweetness, beets are a versatile addition to your fall menu. Both roots and greens can be harvested, providing a dual-purpose crop that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Carrots
Carrots are the root wonder of autumn. Their sweet flavor intensifies with cooler weather, and they store well, making them an ideal crop for extended use throughout the season.
Turnips
Turnips offer a unique, peppery taste that enhances any dish. Both the roots and leaves are edible, providing a harvest that is as versatile as it is flavorful. Plant them now for a delightful fall treat.
Bok Choy
Bok choy adds an Asian flair to your garden lineup. Its crisp texture and mild flavor make it a delicious addition to stir-fries and soups. Quick to mature, it’s perfect for fall planting.
Swiss Chard
With its vibrant stalks and leafy greens, Swiss chard is both a visual and culinary delight. It grows well in cooler weather, providing a continuous harvest of leaves that can be used in various dishes.
Peas
Peas bring sweetness to the fall table, growing happily in cooler climates. Their tendrils climb gracefully, producing pods that are a joy to harvest and eat fresh or cooked.
Cilantro
Cilantro thrives as the days shorten, offering its unmistakable flavor to your culinary repertoire. It’s a perfect garnish for soups and stews, adding a fresh zing to fall dishes.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a cool-weather crop that produces robust heads perfect for roasting or steaming. Its health benefits are numerous, making it a staple in any fall garden.
Cauliflower
The mild, nutty flavor of cauliflower shines in the fall. Its versatility allows it to be used in a variety of dishes, from purees to roasts. Plant it now for a rewarding harvest.
Arugula
Arugula brings a spicy, peppery flavor that’s perfect for salads and pizzas. It grows quickly and thrives in cooler temperatures, making it an ideal choice for autumn planting.
Mustard Greens
Mustard greens add a spicy kick to your meals, perfect for sautés and salads. They’re hardy and grow rapidly, offering a continual harvest throughout the fall months.
Garlic
Planting garlic in late summer ensures a robust crop the following spring. Its pungent taste is indispensable in cooking, and it’s remarkably easy to grow, thriving even as temperatures drop.
Collard Greens
Collard greens are a southern staple, loved for their robust flavor and nutritious leaves. They withstand cooler temperatures and can be harvested well into the fall, offering a hearty addition to any meal.