Why August Might Be the Best Month to Plant in Calgary
Spring gets all the credit. But if you’re thinking about adding new life to your garden, don’t overlook August.
Late summer brings a mix of warmth, calm, and second chances. And in Calgary’s unique climate, it might just be the perfect window to start fresh or breathe new life into what’s already there.
Here’s why it works so well, and how to make the most of it.
1. Warm Soil = Faster Roots
By August, the soil is fully awake. It’s warm, active, and ready to support new growth. That means plants can settle in quickly, develop strong roots, and be well on their way before the first frost hits.
Tip: Focus on perennials, shrubs, and ornamental grasses. These types establish easily in late summer and return strongly in spring.
2. Cooler Nights Help Plants (and Gardeners)
The sun is still shining, but the nights are gentler. This mix of heat and relief lowers plant stress and makes it easier to get things done without the intensity of July’s heat.
Tip: Water deeply in the morning to reduce evaporation and encourage deep root growth. Mulch helps hold that moisture and keeps soil temperatures more stable.
3. There’s Still Time to Enjoy the Results
Plant now, and you don’t have to wait until spring to enjoy the view. Late-season colour can carry your garden into September or even October, depending on what you choose.
Tip: Try plants like rudbeckia, sedum, ornamental cabbage, or cool-season grasses. They bring texture, colour, and life when many other plants are fading.
4. Fall Planting Sets the Stage for Spring
This isn’t just about short-term beauty. Planting now gives your garden a head start. Roots grow through the fall, rest through winter, and come back stronger than ever when spring returns.
Tip: Mix in compost or fresh soil to support root development and give your plants a nutrient-rich foundation.
5. August Is the Perfect Time to Rethink and Reset
Maybe something didn’t thrive this year. Maybe your containers feel tired or a bed feels off. August gives you permission to pause, rework, and try again without starting from scratch.
Tip: Clear out what’s no longer working. Replace it with plants that still have time to shine this season or evergreens that add structure year-round.
Bonus: Fewer Crowds, More Breathing Room
Most people wrap up their gardening by midsummer. That makes August an underrated gem. Nurseries are quieter. Deals are easier to find. And the advice is more personal when the rush is over.
Let’s Fall in Love with Your Yard Again
We’re booking garden refreshes and seasonal projects through mid-September. Whether you’re ready for a full redesign or just want to rework a tired bed, now is a beautiful time to begin.
Let’s grow something that feels like you.
