By August, sun-warmed tomatoes may still be on the vine, but there is a hint of coolness in the morning air that was not there a few weeks ago. The cool air is a sign that gardens will soon transition to the fall season, which means harvesting the last of summer’s rewards while preparing for next season’s harvest. 

At Grand Oaks, we are committed to creating opportunities for residents to participate in activities that will bring joy and relaxation. Our Director of Activities, Jordan Asrat, says, “Our gardening club allows residents to connect with nature and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of gardening.” 

What to Harvest in August 

Late-summer gardening in August can be one of the driest and hottest months of the year, with long stretches of sun that push plants to their limits. But that same heat spends the final weeks of summer ripening fruit on the branch and vegetables in the ground. If you have had crops growing this season, this is the month you have been working toward by watering, weeding, and waiting.   

Fruits likely ready to pick: 

• Apples 

• Peaches 

• Raspberries 

• Blueberries 

• Pears 

• Tomatoes 

Vegetables likely ready to pick: 

• Carrots 

• Cucumbers 

• Garlic 

• Celery 

• Onions 

• Potatoes 

If you are lucky to bring in more than you can eat right away, many of these fruits and vegetables hold up well in the freezer or canned in the pantry to enjoy later in the fall season. 

What to Plant for Fall 

While summer gardening produces a harvest, you can also begin to start growing for the next season. The soil is already warm from the summer heat, which gives fall crops a strong head start. By the time the weather cools, your crops will be ready to thrive in the colder temperatures. 

What to plant: 

• Kale 

• Spinach 

• Lettuce  

• Broccoli  

• Carrots 

• Radishes 

Before planting, it helps to clear out any summer plants that have stopped producing to make room. Follow this up by refreshing the soil to give the new seeds a good start. To refresh the soil, you can simply mix in compost or loosen it up. 

Timing is another factor you will want to consider beforehand, since many fall crops prefer cooler weather to mature. Growing these crops now allows them to grow in the sweet spot between summer’s heat and winter’s frost. Some vegetables, like carrots and radishes, may taste better after a light frost because it brings out their natural sweetness. 

Why Is Gardening Good for Seniors? 

Finding an activity that keeps you active without overexertion can be difficult. Gardening is one of the activities that is low-impact and physically beneficial. Planting, watering, and tidying up raised beds all involve small movements that support flexibility, strength, and mobility.  

Watching a plant start as a seed and grow can feel deeply satisfying. Small achievements like this help seniors rediscover old skills, build confidence, and hold onto a sense of independence. Creating independence allows a sense of purpose to form, which makes it easier to get out of bed in the morning, knowing something else needs tending to from you. 

Gardening can be done alone or with others, such as a resident and their loved ones. Connecting with people over a shared activity can lead to enjoyable conversation and laughter. Shared moments build friendships and strengthen the sense of community. 

Gardening can also help protect the brain. Research has linked regular gardening to a meaningfully lower risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Long-term studies have found that seniors who continue to garden tend to hold onto memory, reasoning, and verbal skills longer than those who do not. 

Gardening at Grand Oaks 

At Grand Oaks, we offer a variety of activities that allow residents to target their mind, body, and spirit. Among book clubs, pet visits, and live entertainment, gardening is one of the many activities built into residents’ everyday life. 

We know how important these activities are to maintaining the health and happiness of our residents, which is why we ensure that, no matter their physical ability or interests, there is a way for everyone to get involved. Check out our full range of activities, or schedule a tour today to see them in action on site.