Published: August 01. 2009 2:00AM

By Kate Tierney

So we've all been to the beach, mountains or a family reunion in Connecticut. And now we have returned to a somewhat neglected and crispy garden. No need to be lost between the memories of our lush April carpet and the promise of fall's perky pansies! Burst the myth that August is either too late or too early to plant outdoors. Use container gardens to transition your garden into a cooler fall temperature. I spoke with my friend Mark over at Underwood's Nursery, and he suggested some great selections that are available for August planting. Couple these favorites with the perfect container and you are on your way to a garden makeover.

Cluster a grouping of small containers outside the kitchen door for a small herb garden.

Recycled containers are fun and different. Try buckets, wheelbarrows, watering cans, wading pools, painted trash cans.

This wooden trough sits over a closely cropped summer garden to bring the eye up and into a new design.

Take the focus away from the garden and to the front door with freshly planted urns.