Task List & Planting Guide
Garden Care
August is still brutal—but this is your transition month into fall success.
Continue deep watering 2–3x/week
Containers: 1-2x a day
Refresh mulch if it’s broken down
Watch for hydrophobic soil (water running off) → soak slowly
Cut back leggy annuals early August: Zinnias, cosmos, celosia
→ You’ll get a strong fall flush – Continue harvesting regularly
Remove anything fully spent or diseased
FALL PLANTING (KEY TASK)
Direct sow mid–late August:
Zinnias (fast fall crop), Sunflowers (short-season varieties), Cosmos
Vegetables & Herb Care
Tomatoes may start setting fruit again late August
Keep harvesting: Okra, melons, southern peas
Remove exhausted plants to make room for fall
Cut back and reshape: Basil, oregano, thyme
Replant basil if it’s too far gone
Tree & Shrub Care
Continue deep watering
Plan fall planting (but don’t plant yet unless temps ease late month)
Lawn Care
Maintain mowing height
Water deeply
Late August: you can start planning fall lawn care (not yet heavy fertilizing)
Pest & Problem Watch
Spider mites (still active)
Grasshoppers
Fungal issues if humidity increases
WEST TEXAS STRATEGY SHIFT – You’re preparing for fall dominance now
Start clearing space, refreshing beds, and planning succession
Shade structures can start coming off late month (weather depending)