Planting Out Young Brassicas in August for a Robust Fall Harvest
August is the perfect time to transplant young brassica plants from modules, trays, or nursery beds into their final positions. Get this right now, and you’ll enjoy a succession of leafy greens and crunchy heads throughout autumn and, for many varieties, right through to spring. Here’s how to set up your brassica crops for success.
Why Plant Out Brassicas in August?
- Rapid Establishment: Warm soil means roots grow quickly and plants establish fast before autumn’s chill.
- Take Advantage of Empty Beds: Space opens up as early crops finish.
- Longer Harvest Window: Many brassicas planted in August will keep producing through winter.
- Avoid Early Pests: Late broods of cabbage white butterflies are less of a problem as days shorten.
Which Brassicas Should You Plant in August?
- Kale: Curly, cavolo nero, or Red Russian types.
- Spring Cabbage: For picking greens in late winter, or allow to mature for heading.
- Autumn & Winter Cabbage: Firm heads for harvesting deep into cold months.
- Purple Sprouting Broccoli: Harvests late winter to early spring.
- Overwintering Cauliflower: For early spring crops before most new season veg is ready.
- Swede & Turnips: These roots double up for greens and earthy, winter flavor.
Step-by-Step: How to Plant Out Brassicas in August
- Prepare the Bed:
- Clear weeds and previous crops, then rake smooth.
- Mix in garden compost or well-rotted manure for nutrients.
- Firm the soil well—brassicas dislike loose, fluffy soil.
- Water Seedlings:
- Hours before transplanting, water young plants thoroughly.
- Transplant Properly:
- Space plants generously: 40–50cm apart each way, depending on variety.
- Plant each brassica so the lowest leaves sit just above the surface.
- Firm soil around each root ball for stable, upright plants.
- Water In Well:
- Give transplanted brassicas a deep soak after planting.
- Mulch and Net:
- Apply a mulch (compost, grass clippings, or straw) to keep moisture in.
- Cover with fine netting to prevent cabbage white butterflies, pigeons, or rabbits from attacking new plants.
Ongoing Care for August-Planted Brassicas
- Keep Well Watered: Especially for 2 weeks after transplanting.
- Check Often: Remove any caterpillars or pests under leaves.
- Feed Occasionally: An organic liquid feed or diluted seaweed can boost green leafy growth.
- Weed Regularly: Young brassicas hate competition.
- Firm Soil Again if Needed: Especially after heavy rains or watering.
Harvest Timelines
- Kale and Spring Cabbage: Pick outer leaves as plants size up, leaving the center to keep producing.
- Cabbage and Cauliflower: Harvest mature heads as they firm up over autumn/winter.
- Purple Sprouting Broccoli: Usually ready for picking from late winter into early spring.
Planting your young brassicas in August is one of the best ways to ensure a steady supply of dark greens when the rest of the garden slows. With a little August effort, you’ll fill the “hungry gap” and have nutritious, hearty meals right through until spring.