There's something special about August in southern Minnesota. The gardens are bursting with color, tomatoes are finally ripening, and we begin to notice the subtle signs that fall isn't too far away. While the days are still warm, August is an important month for gardeners. A little work now helps keep your landscape looking beautiful while setting the stage for an even better spring.
As both an avid gardener and a local real estate agent, I know firsthand that a well-maintained landscape not only brings joy but also adds curb appeal and value to your home. Whether you're tending a few flower beds or caring for a large backyard oasis, here are some of my favorite August gardening tips for Mankato and the surrounding communities.
🌼 Keep Watering Wisely
Although temperatures may begin to cool slightly, August can still bring periods of hot, dry weather. Continue watering deeply rather than frequently. Deep watering encourages stronger root systems and helps your plants become more drought tolerant.
Water early in the morning whenever possible to reduce evaporation and help prevent fungal diseases.
🍅 Harvest Often
August is one of the most rewarding months in the vegetable garden. Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, beans, zucchini, and herbs are often producing at their peak.
Regular harvesting encourages many vegetables to continue producing throughout the season. Don't let oversized zucchini or overripe cucumbers slow your plants down!
🌸 Deadhead Summer Flowers
Continue removing spent blooms from annuals and many perennials. Deadheading encourages additional blooms while keeping flower beds looking fresh and tidy.
Flowers such as petunias, zinnias, marigolds, and coneflowers all benefit from regular maintenance this time of year.
🌿 Stay Ahead of the Weeds
Even late in the season, weeds compete for valuable moisture and nutrients. Spending just a few minutes every week pulling weeds can save hours of work later.
Adding a fresh layer of mulch can also help suppress new weeds while retaining soil moisture during hot afternoons.
✂️ Light Pruning Only
Resist the temptation to heavily prune shrubs or trees this month. Major pruning can stimulate new growth that may not have time to harden before winter.
Instead, remove dead or damaged branches and lightly shape plants if needed.
🌷 Start Thinking About Spring
Believe it or not, August is the perfect time to begin planning next year's garden.
Take note of:
- Which flowers performed well.
- Areas that could use more color.
- Spots that need additional shade or sun-loving plants.
- Places where you might want to divide perennials this fall.
A few notes now make spring planting much easier.
🌱 Prepare for Fall Planting
Late August into September is an excellent time in Minnesota to plant many trees, shrubs, and perennials. The warm soil encourages root growth while cooler air temperatures reduce stress on new plants.
If you've been dreaming about adding landscaping or improving your curb appeal, fall is often one of the best times to plant.
🐝 Support Pollinators
Many late-season flowers provide critical nectar for bees and butterflies preparing for winter migration or overwintering.
Consider leaving some blooms for pollinators and avoid unnecessary pesticide use whenever possible. Coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, asters, and sedum are all wonderful late-season favorites.
🏡 Great Landscaping Adds Great Curb Appeal
One of the first things buyers notice when viewing a home is its exterior. Healthy lawns, colorful flower beds, neatly edged walkways, and attractive landscaping create a welcoming first impression before anyone even steps inside.
You don't need an elaborate garden to make an impact. Simple touches like fresh mulch, trimmed shrubs, seasonal flowers, and a well-maintained lawn can dramatically improve your home's appearance and help it stand out in today's market.
Happy Gardening!
Gardening has always been one of my favorite ways to unwind and enjoy Minnesota's beautiful seasons. Every year teaches us something new, and that's part of what makes gardening so rewarding.
Whether you're growing vegetables for your family, planting flowers simply because they make you smile, or preparing your home for the market, I hope these August tips help your garden thrive.
If you're thinking about buying or selling a home in Mankato or the surrounding area, I'd love to help. And if you happen to see me admiring someone's flower beds while showing a house… you'll know exactly why!
Happy gardening, and enjoy the beautiful month of August!
Debbie Ogren 🧡
The Integrity Real Estate Group at True Real Estate
