It’s July, and you might think it’s too late to plant your veggies, right? Think again! The growing season is still in full swing, and there’s plenty of time to get your garden going.
“July? Isn’t it too hot for new plants?” you might ask. Not at all! The warmth and long days are perfect for many vegetables to flourish. Whether you’re working with a raised bed or a traditional garden plot, there’s a bounty you can start planting now.
Now, I wish I could give you a universal rule for mid-summer planting, but it all depends on your location. Whether you’re soaking up the California sun or enjoying the mild breezes in New England, what you can plant will vary.
But hey, no matter where you’re gardening, there are two golden rules to remember.
First off, as those long summer days inch closer to the autumn equinox, droughts can sneak up on you. So, keep an eye on your watering schedule. Plants, much like us, need a good drink to stay happy and healthy. Also, A little partial shade can go a long way in protecting your tender veggies from getting scorched. A little protection can make a big difference.
So, if you’re ready to keep planting and keep growing, let’s dive into the best vegetables to plant in July for a delicious and productive garden season that keeps on giving right up until the first frost.
It’s July, But It’s Not Too Late to Start Your Garden!
July is still a prime time to plant your garden. However, to get the best results, there are certain factors you should consider. Understanding your local climate and choosing the right plants are key to a flourishing garden in the heart of summer.
Around how many days do you have left before the season shifts?
Before planting anything new in July, you need to figure out how much growing season you have left. This answer depends on your local climate and the season’s forecasted temperatures. For us in Idaho, with warm weather hanging around until mid to late October, we’re looking at roughly 100 days left of prime growing time.
Now, let’s compare our Zone 7 with a few other zones. If you were in a lower zone like Zone 5, say in places like Chicago or parts of Colorado, you’d be looking at a shorter growing season. There, warm weather often bows out by late September. That’s a good 30 days less than what we get here. It’s like trying to squeeze in an extra hour of daylight in winter – you’ve got to act fast!
On the flip side, if you lived in a higher zone, like Zone 8, 9, or even 10, you’d be practically basking in year-round growing opportunities. Think of areas like Texas, California, or Florida. In these zones, the warm weather lingers much longer, sometimes well into November or even December. It’s like an endless summer, where the party never really stops, giving you ample time to plant, harvest, and then plant again.
How do you determine your growing season?
- Check Local Forecasts: Look at your local weather predictions. See how long your area will stay warm.
- Historical Climate Data: Use historical data to forecast until when you can expect growing-friendly weather.
- Transition Periods: Know when your area usually shifts from warm to cooler temperatures.
Choosing the Right Plants for the Timeframe
Now that you know how much time you have left, the next step is to choose plants that can mature within this timeframe. The key is to pick vegetables that match your remaining growing days.
What should you plant to maximize your July gardening?
It’s simple: you need crops that can reach harvest before your warmer days run out. Here are some tips:
- Go for Quick Growers: Pick vegetables that mature in about 30 to 70 days.
- Heat-Loving Plants are Your Friends: Grow plants that thrive in warm climates but don’t need too much time to mature.
- Know Your Plant Timelines:
Some examples include:
- Spinach and Lettuce: Quick-growers like Spinach can take as little as 40-50 days.
- Bush Beans: They usually need about 50-70 days.
- Radishes: These speedy growers can be ready in as little as 25-30 days.
- Cucumbers: Some species only need 60-70 days.
- Turnips: Typically mature in 30-60 days
- Spinach and Lettuce: Quick-growers like Spinach can take as little as 40-50 days.
July isn’t the end of your gardening journey—it’s simply a new chapter. By understanding your climate and choosing the right plants, you can make the most of every growing day you have left. Follow these guidelines, and discover the immense potential your garden still holds this summer!
13 Vegetables You Can Plant Right Now in July’s Summer Heat
1: Corn
Plant corn in early July to enjoy sweet, crisp ears just in time for your Labor Day BBQ. Corn matures quickly, allowing you to plant multiple successions throughout the summer. Aim for a soil temperature between 65-80°F for the best results. When planting, sow seeds 1-1 ½” deep, spaced 6-7” apart, with rows 24-36” apart. This method works well in zones 2-10.
For a classic taste, try varieties like ‘Silver Queen’ or ‘Golden Bantam’. If you’re looking for something unique, ‘Peaches and Cream’ offers a delightful blend of yellow and white kernels. In zone 8 or warmer, consider growing popcorn varieties like ‘Strawberry Popcorn’ and the colorful ‘Fiesta’ for a fun twist. Corn typically takes about 60-100 days to mature, depending on the variety.
Make sure to space your plants adequately to ensure healthy growth. Corn seedlings should be thinned to about 12 inches apart once they reach a few inches tall. Harvest when the silks turn brown and the kernels are plump and milky.
For a continuous supply, plant new corn seeds every 2-3 weeks until mid-summer.
2: Carrots
Late July is perfect for planting carrots that will mature just in time for a cool-weather harvest. For the best results, aim for a soil temperature between 60-85°F. When planting, space the seeds ¾-1” apart (wider spacing will yield bigger carrots), and plant them ¼-½” deep in rows 16-24” apart. Direct seeding is ideal in zones 2-8.
Choose storage varieties like ‘Bolero’ and ‘RubyPak’ for optimal yield and quality. Carrots typically take about 70-80 days to mature, so you can plan your harvest for late fall. If you’re in a hotter climate, be mindful of the August heat, which can be harsh on seedlings. Consider providing some shade or waiting until the temperatures cool down a bit to plant your carrots.
Carrots are usually ready to harvest when they reach about 1/2 to 1 inch in diameter. To determine your specific planting zone, refer to the USDA Hardiness Zone Map.
3: Beets
Beets are incredibly versatile and can be planted throughout the summer to ensure a continuous supply. They thrive in soil temperatures between 75-90°F. To get started, plant the seeds ½ inch deep and space them 1-2 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart, then thin to one plant every 2 inches. Direct seeding works well in zones 2-10.
Varieties worth considering include Chioggia, known for its striking red and white rings that add visual appeal to any dish. Touchstone Gold offers a mild, sweet flavor and a vibrant yellow color, while Boro is a reliable red beet with a uniform shape and excellent taste.
When transplanting seedlings, choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Prepare the soil by adding compost or organic matter to enhance fertility. Transplant beet seedlings when they have at least two true leaves and are about 2-3 inches tall. Space them 2-3 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart, being gentle to avoid damaging the delicate roots.
Keep the roots well-irrigated and use mulch to maintain soil moisture. Beets typically mature in 50-70 days, depending on the variety. Harvest them when they reach your preferred size; smaller beets are tender, while larger ones have a more robust flavor.
4: Malabar Spinach
If you’re gardening in a hot climate, Malabar spinach is your go-to summer green. This vining green thrives in scorching temperatures and continues producing throughout summer and into fall. Ideal soil temperature ranges from 65-80°F. Sow seeds ¼ inch deep and space them 1-2 inches apart in rows 36 inches apart, then thin the plants to 4-6 inches apart. Direct seeding works well in zones 4-12.
Malabar spinach typically takes 55-70 days to mature. Harvest the leaves when they are young and tender, starting about 50 days after planting, and continue to pick throughout the growing season.
For a splash of color in your garden, try ‘Red Malabar Spinach,’ known for its striking red stems and deep green leaves. ‘Green Malabar Spinach’ features green stems and leaves, offering a more traditional look and flavor. Both varieties are excellent for adding a nutritious boost to salads, stir-fries, and other cooked dishes.
To support the vines as they grow, use mesh netting or a trellis. This encourages healthier growth and makes harvesting easier. Ensure the plants have consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging. Mulching around the base of the plants helps retain soil moisture and keeps the roots cool.
5: Spring Cabbage
Forget what you’ve heard about July being too late to plant anything – it’s actually the perfect time to start sowing spring cabbages. Unlike many winter brassicas that require a whole summer to reach maturity, many spring cabbage varieties only mature in the new year and can be started now with plenty of time.
To grow your own spring cabbages, sow seeds in cell trays or a seed bed with soil free of clubroot disease. Ideal soil temperature ranges from 50-75°F (10-24°C). This method is effective in zones 4-10. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, usually after 4-6 weeks, transplant them to their final positions in late September. Space the rows 12 inches (30 cm) apart and the plants 6 inches (15 cm) apart. Keep the seedlings covered with fleece until October to deter cabbage root fly, which can be particularly problematic in August. For a nutrient boost, add a nitrogen-rich fertilizer in late winter. Thin out alternate plants in spring, leaving the rest to develop. Applying a good mulch helps keep the soil cool and well-nourished.
Spring cabbages take about 180-220 days to mature, making them a fantastic crop to plant now. Varieties like ‘Hispi’ or ‘Spring Duchess’ offer tender, sweet leaves perfect for fresh salads or light cooking. If you want something with a crisp texture and mild flavor, ‘Flower of Spring’ is your go-to, adding both taste and aesthetic appeal to your garden. For smaller spaces and early harvesting, ‘April Green’ is a compact, reliable variety.
6: Beans
Beans are a warm-weather vegetable that thrive when planted every 1-2 weeks for a continuous harvest. Aim for a soil temperature between 75-90°F for the best growth. When planting, place seeds 1” deep and about 3” apart, with rows spaced 2-4’ apart. Direct seeding works well in zones 2-12.
For bush beans, consider varieties like ‘Blue Lake’ or ‘Contender’ for their reliable yields and great flavor. Pole beans such as ‘Kentucky Wonder’ or ‘Scarlet Runner’ are excellent for their climbing habit and long harvest period. If you prefer shelling beans, try ‘Cannellini’ or ‘Black Turtle’ for their rich, hearty taste. For a splash of color, ‘Royal Burgundy’ bush beans offer vibrant purple pods that turn green when cooked, adding visual interest to your garden and plate.
Ensure your beans have consistent moisture and consider planting nearby pollinator-friendly flowers like marigolds or nasturtiums to enhance yields. Beans typically mature in 50-70 days, so you can enjoy fresh beans throughout the growing season. For support, pole beans will benefit from trellises or stakes to climb on, ensuring better air circulation and easier harvesting.
7: Broccoli
For northern gardeners, July is perfect for starting fall broccoli. Ideal soil temperature is 75-80°F. Sow seeds ¼” deep in cell flats and transplant outdoors in 3-4 weeks. Space plants 18” apart in rows 18-36” apart. Start indoors or on a patio in zones 2-8.
Broccoli enjoys warm conditions for initial growth and cooler autumn temperatures to mature. Broccoli loves warm conditions for its initial growth phase but prefers cooler autumn temperatures to mature. Varieties like ‘Emerald Crown’ and ‘Di Cicco’ are fantastic options. ‘Emerald Crown’ matures in 60-75 days, giving you uniform heads with great disease resistance. Meanwhile, ‘Di Cicco’ matures in 50-70 days, providing smaller, tender heads that are perfect for continuous harvesting.
Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week. Mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Harvest when heads are firm and tight, just before the florets open. For continuous harvest, cut the main head to encourage side shoots.
8: Chard
Lush and nutrient-packed, chard brings both beauty and utility to any garden. To get started, sow seeds in rows spaced 12 inches (30 cm) apart and thin the seedlings to maintain about 8 inches (20 cm) between each plant. Chard thrives in USDA zones 3-10, making it a versatile pick for a wide range of climates.
One of the great things about chard is that it can be harvested repeatedly throughout the season. Varieties like ‘Bright Lights’ will brighten up your garden with their vibrant stems in shades of pink, yellow, and orange, while ‘Fordhook Giant’ boasts hearty, dark green leaves and sturdy white stems.
To keep pests at bay, plant chard near garlic or chives. These companions act as natural deterrents against aphids and other common pests, promoting healthier plants. Chard prefers soil temperatures between 50-85°F, and you can plant it from early spring to late summer. It matures in about 50-60 days, which means you can enjoy multiple harvests over a single growing season.
Keep the soil consistently moist and consider using mulch to help retain moisture and minimize weeds. For improved soil health, rotate chard with legumes or other nitrogen-fixing crops.
9: Cucumbers
Growing cucumbers in July is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, crunchy vegetables throughout the summer. They thrive when the soil is warm, ideally between 70-95°F. To get started, plant the seeds about an inch deep, spacing them 12 inches apart with rows 36 inches apart. This method is effective in zones 3-10.
After about 2-3 weeks, when the seedlings are robust enough, transplant them to their final spots. Depending on the variety, cucumbers generally take 50-70 days to mature. For a steady supply, sow new seeds every 2-3 weeks until mid-summer.
Varieties like ‘Marketmore’ and ‘Straight Eight’ are reliable performers throughout the season. If you’re in the mood for something different, give ‘Lemon Cucumber’ a try – it has a sweet, mild taste and an unusual round shape. For pickling enthusiasts, ‘Boston Pickling’ is a great choice, while ‘Spacemaster’ is perfect for small gardens or containers due to its compact size.
To support your cucumber plants, use a trellis or mesh. This helps them grow healthier and makes harvesting easier. Pick cucumbers when they are firm and reach the desired size – typically 6-8 inches long for slicing varieties, and smaller for pickling ones.
10: Zucchini
Zucchini is a fast-growing, prolific plant that can be sown mid-summer for an extended harvest. They flourish in soil temperatures between 70-90°F. Plant the seeds about an inch deep, spacing them 24-36 inches apart, with rows 36-48 inches apart. Direct seeding works well in zones 3-9.
Zucchini loves warmth and grows quickly. After 2-3 weeks, once the seedlings are sturdy, transplant them to their final spots, ensuring proper spacing for good airflow and growth. Zucchini generally matures in 45-55 days, depending on the variety.
For dependable production, consider varieties like ‘Black Beauty’ or ‘Costata Romanesco.’ ‘Gold Rush’ provides bright yellow fruits, while ‘Eight Ball’ offers round, softball-sized zucchinis ideal for stuffing. Another great option is ‘Raven,’ noted for its dark green, glossy fruits and high yields.
Harvest zucchini when they’re about 6-8 inches long for optimal flavor and texture. Regular picking encourages the plant to produce more fruit, ensuring a continuous supply throughout the season.
11: Lettuce
Lettuce can still thrive in July if you choose the right heat-tolerant varieties. These leafy greens do best when soil temperatures are between 55-75°F. For planting, sow the seeds thinly about ¼” deep and space them 12” apart in rows that are 18” apart. This ensures enough room for each plant to grow.
You can direct seed lettuce in hardiness zones 3-9. Varieties like ‘Summer Bibb’ or ‘Buttercrunch’ are particularly well-suited for summer planting as they resist bolting better than others. To extend their growing season and keep the plants cool, provide some shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Direct seeding works best in zones 3-9, where you can plant lettuce straight into your garden. Ensure the spot you choose gets some afternoon shade to prevent the plants from overheating. Alternatively, you can start lettuce seeds indoors and transplant them outside once they are robust enough. Just make sure they are spaced correctly and shaded properly after transplanting.
By opting for heat-tolerant varieties and giving them a bit of shade, you can enjoy fresh, crisp lettuce even in the summer heat.
12: Peas
Late-maturing pea varieties can be planted in July for a fall harvest. Peas thrive in soil temperatures between 55-80°F. Sow seeds 1-2 inches deep and space them 1-2 inches apart in rows 24-36 inches apart. This method works well in zones 3-7.
When your seedlings are large enough to handle, typically after 3-4 weeks, transplant them to their final positions. Ensure they have a trellis or support to climb on, as this helps them grow better and makes harvesting easier.
Peas typically take about 60-70 days to mature. For a fall harvest, aim to plant by mid-July. You’ll know they are ready to harvest when the pods are plump and the peas inside are fully formed.
For late planting, choose heat-tolerant varieties like ‘Wando.’ ‘Green Arrow’ is another excellent choice, known for its high yields and disease resistance. ‘Lincoln’ is prized for its sweet flavor and tender texture, while ‘Sugar Snap’ offers delicious, edible pods.
To maximize your harvest, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain moisture and keep the roots cool.
13: Turnips
Turnips are quick growers, making them ideal for a late summer planting. They thrive in soil temperatures between 60-85°F. Sow seeds ½ inch deep and space them 1-2 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart. Direct seeding works well in zones 3-9.
When your seedlings are large enough to handle, usually after 2-3 weeks, thin them to their final spacing. This allows enough room for the roots to develop properly. Turnips typically mature in about 30-60 days, depending on the variety, and can be harvested when the roots reach about 2-3 inches in diameter.
A reliable variety for late summer planting is ‘Purple Top White Globe,’ which matures quickly and produces sweet, tender roots. Another great option is ‘Golden Globe,’ known for its smooth, golden skin and flavorful flesh. For a unique twist, try ‘Tokyo Cross,’ an early-maturing variety with crisp, white roots.
Turnips also offer nutritious greens that can be harvested as the plants grow. These greens are rich in vitamins and can be used in salads or cooked dishes. Ensure consistent moisture and consider mulching to retain soil moisture and keep the roots cool.
