August
Make notes for next year while things are blooming.
Dig potatoes after the tops have died down.
Prune strawberry runners to keep the bed orderly.
Buy fall mums.
Water newly planted shrubs and trees.
Stop pruning shrubs.
Don't fertilize any more until leaves begin to change. Fertilizing in late summer causes growth which will probably be "nipped" by frost.
Water evergreens thoroughly during dry weather.
Sow forget-me-not seed. It makes an attractive carpet planting for tulip beds.
Sow poppy seeds. August sown seed gives richer-colored flowers.
Cut off foliage of bleeding hearts which has become unsightly.
Fertilize peonies and work it into the soil. Transplant or divide them.
Treat for Powdery Mildew; 1 1/2 tablespoons baking soda, 1 gallon of water and 2-3 tablespoons of horticultural oil. Spray it on all the susceptible plants every other week.
Plant colchicum's and fall crocuses.
Order spring bulbs.
Cuttings from English Ivy now will produce good house plants for winter.
Set the lawn mower at 2 1/2 to 3 inches to help the grass stay hydrated.
Reseed lawn bare spots with mixed grass seed varieties.
Bring amaryllis inside.
Sow lettuces and greens, carrots, beets and turnips and don't worry about how big they get. They taste wonderful while still immature. Be sure to keep all of these well watered, also, a bit of mulch will keep the tender roots cool.
Net blueberries. Stake it so birds and small animals can't reach the berries from the outside.
Give plants in hanging baskets and containers a trim and a good feeding to help them continue to flourish.
It's a good time to plant perennials, shrubs and trees. This will allow them to establish some good roots before the ground freezes.